Fort Lauderdale
USA
“Young Professionals in Yachting (YPY) was formed in 2009 as a non-profit in Fort Lauderdale, FL, with one overarching mission, to create a safe haven for young, land-based marine industry professionals to share their ideas, network and grow into their professional careers in what is considered a very rigid and unwelcoming industry. Through a healthy balance of educational panels, speakers, and social gatherings, YPY USA aims to promote and support the continuing education of the next generation of industry leaders, and ultimately facilitate future success for those that follow through collaboration on ethical business practices.”
Chris Coleman – YPY USA President
Our Chapter
The USA chapter, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, holds one official meeting every month that typically features a key speaker, and consists of sharing industry news and hosting professional development seminars. We allow members to share any industry news or updates for discussions, and encourage new ideas and member collaboration. The association also hosts sponsored social events for networking opportunities at local boat shows, an elegant Summer Soiree and our annual YPY Gala.
Since its inception, YPY USA has amassed more than 150 members from diverse fields and many influential companies in the marine industry of South Florida.
Our chapter’s by-laws can be viewed here.
Membership
Becoming a member of Young Professionals in Yachting has unique benefits which include: monthly meetings, networking opportunities, professional development, members-only access to job postings, professional mentoring program, meaningful volunteer opportunities, admission to our annual gala and so much more.
Join Now
We will review your application and email you back further membership details.
Board Members
Meet the board of YPY USA

In his spare time, Chris enjoys playing soccer, paddle boarding, and using his role to foster the next generation of young professionals in the yachting industry.
Chris Coleman
President

As a Board Member, Lauren assists in the planning and execution of multiple events and meetings that focus on the super yacht industry, education and networking, along with her fellow Board Members, she works to strengthen YPY here in the US and across sister chapters. Her goal is to make sure members of all experience levels feel welcomed, well informed and enjoy relationship building events. Stepping into the role of Vice President in 2023, Lauren's aim is to provide support for the membership and fellow Board Members, to continue to grow YPY as a respected industry association and to be a figure members can come to share ideas and to give feedback.
In her day job, Lauren is a Charter Manager with Northrop & Johnson. She is a fifth generation Floridian and Florida State University Alum. Along with YPY, Lauren is a proud member of IYBA and ISS.
Lauren Littlejohn
Vice President

Eric Schmitt
Treasurer

Julia Russell
Programming & Sponsorships Director

Morgan Crowe
Marketing Director

Kathleen Hagan
Mentorship Director

Éire McGowan
Volunteer Director

Sarrah Hearne
Administrator

Jessica Heizer
Events Director

Casey Noble
Membership Director

Andrew High
Legal Counsel
Sponsors
Past Speakers
Payments
Checks can be made out to Young Professionals in Yachting in the amount of $150 and mailed to:
Young Professionals in Yachting
PO Box 460304
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33346
Membership dues may also be paid by using the link below.
Contact us
info@youngprofessionalsinyachting.org
Young Professionals in Yachting
PO Box 460304
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33346
Young Professionals in Yachting USA
Join the YPY USA Mentorship Program!
Mentorships are a proven way to drive rich learning and development for both mentees and mentors, which can lead to a more fulfilling career, better opportunities for growth, and greater compensation. If you are looking to achieve specific career goals, this is your chance to receive free, one-on-one coaching from someone in the marine industry willing to help. Please contact our YPY Mentorship Chair, Julia Russell for more information.