The Recreational Boating Industries Educational Foundation (RBIEF), now in its 40th year of supporting marine education in Michigan, awarded $25,000 in scholarships to 11 applicants who demonstrated a strong interest in pursuing careers within the marine industry. Since its start in 1986 by the Michigan Boating Industries Association, the foundation has awarded a total of $506,117 to help support marine education in the state.
“Michigan is the third-largest recreational boating market in the United States and requires skilled individuals to maintain our leadership,” says RBIEF president Jim Coburn of The Coburn Consulting Company. “Paired with MBIA’s workforce development initiative, there has been renewed interest in marine careers in the past few years and RBIEF remains committed to funding and educating those interested in boating careers.”
This year’s scholarship recipients are Mitchell Beauregard, Grosse Pointe Shores; Lauren Brondyke, Holland; Greyson Cook, Elk Rapids; Sawyer James Couturier, Lake Leelanau; Anthony Dehring, Sumner; Brendan Ross Falkowski, Bath; Isaac Robert Sommer, Imlay City; Elijah Smith, Pinckney; Levi John Sterenberg, Holland; Gannon Wood, Charlevoix and Christian Yonkus, Grosse Pointe Farms.
The prestigious Gregory P. Krueger Scholarship established in memory of Greg Krueger, RBIEF co-founder, MBIA Board Director and President of Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales, honors individuals who demonstrate perseverance and a strong dedication to advancing their education within the marine industry. Christian Yonkus has been selected as the recipient of the highest-level Gregory P. Krueger Scholarship for 2026.
“An investment in students seeking boating industry careers is an investment in the future of our industry,” adds Nicki Polan, executive director of MBIA and RBIEF director. “MBIA continues to prioritize the development of the marine workforce in Michigan, partnering with marine tech programs and being the connection between education programs and our industry members.”
To learn more, visit mbia.org/page/rbief.
PHOTO: MICHIGAN BOATING INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION FACEBOOK
