Today we’d like to introduce you to Austin Spitler.
Hi Austin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in small town Ohio. Team sports and community were both a huge part of my upbringing. I learned discipline, team work, commitment, and hard work at a very young age which helped me excel while playing football for The Ohio State University and eventually professionally for the Miami Dolphins. I’ve always attributed my success in sports to my willingness to not just lead, but also be a team player. Collaboration, honoring my commitments, and leading by example are fundamental principles in the way I operate my business today. I now own and operate Yacht Lifters, Inc serving all of South Florida as their premier Marine Contractor specializing in the construction of Seawalls, Boat Lifts, Docks, and much more. Owning and operating my own local company allows me to continue what I know and love: serving my local community, fostering new relationships, providing mentorship to my employees, leading by example, and helping others reach their goals and dreams, together. I believe in putting out the best product, providing the best customer satisfaction and communication, and collectively achieving a desired result. I give my all on every project, and I could’t be happier doing it.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have faced many obstacles and challenges in life; however, discipline and hard work have always been my guiding light to overcome. I believe if you put your all into something and truly bet on yourself, you are able to put yourself in the best possible starting position to overcome whatever you may face. Faith, strength, and the willingness to persevere can move mountains if the effort is honest. Today, while running my business, obstacles and challenges come by the hour. Construction in general is a complex endeavor; however, marine construction in South Florida is additionally ladened with concerns of tidal rising, severe weather impacts, harsh tropical environments, and the welfare of marine life. Everything we build must keep these very important things in mind, while also striving to make every improvement as maximally enjoyable, beautiful, and successful as the customer ultimately envisioned.
As you know, we’re big fans of Yacht Lifters, Inc.. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Founded in Fort Lauderdale more than a decade ago, our company quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. We are a full-service marine construction company based in Fort Lauderdale, FL, specializing in dock construction, seawall construction, seawall repairs, piling installations, boat lifts, and more. Our mission is to transform waterfront properties with precision, reliability, and integrity. We are a trusted provider of custom waterfront solutions for residential, commercial, marina, and government projects throughout South Florida.
Without a doubt, I am most proud of the reputation my company has earned over the years for putting out some of the best work around and the amazing relationships I have created alongside my customers while doing it. It’s cliche to say, “You’re not just a customer, you’re family”; but in all reality, it is true at Yacht Lifters and often I end up working with the same customer on multiple different projects into the future as families grow, new homes are bought, life happens and evolves etc. The majority of my customers end up being repeat customers far into the future and I’m grateful for these long term relationships forged together in business and success.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’ve had several mentors in my life. Some notable ones are:
Jim Tressel – Head coach at Ohio State University – What he taught me: Be tough, but also compassionate. My take away: Actions are the loudest words you’ll ever speak.
Luke Fickell – Linebacker coach at Ohio State University – What he taught me: In life, discipline isn’t optional, it’s required. My take away: You don’t need perfect conditions to make progress; you just need the courage to start moving.
Doug Speeler Jr – Marine Contractor / Business Owner – Doug was my early mentor in the marine construction industry and had a hand in where I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yachtlifters.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/yachtlifters
Image Credits
Instagram, Matt Bondi, Ryan Wise, Dillon Vargas
