San Diego, CA – The California Yacht Brokers Association (CYBA) Growth-Expansion- Outreach (GEO) Committee proudly presents the 2024 Women of the Waterfront Award (WWA), an esteemed recognition honoring the women who had made a significant impact in the maritime industry. This year’s award was presented at the CYBA Annual Dinner on January 11, 2025, aboard the historic Queen Mary, as part of CYBA’s 50th Anniversary celebration.

The 2024 WWA Recipient is Kathi Krencik Ford of Reliable Documentation, Inc.

As the yachting industry has evolved, more women have stepped into leadership roles, excelling in brokerage, marine services, yacht design, and beyond. The Women of the Waterfront Award highlights the outstanding achievements of these professionals, who inspire the next generation and redefine the industry’s future. CYBA’s commitment to recognizing the talents of all individuals is indicative of their leadership role among marine recreation associations nationwide.

“This award is about more than just recognition,” said Leilani Wales, Chairperson of CYBA- GEO. “It is about celebrating the dedication, expertise, and leadership of women who have long played a pivotal role in shaping the yachting world. Their contributions elevated the industry, and it was time we shined a spotlight on their impact.”

The 2024 honorees represented a diverse group of professionals, each with a unique and powerful story of success. This year’s nominees included:

Nadine Urciuoli – Helmut’s Marine Svc. Nina Ankele – Delta Marine Sales Denise George – Denison Yachting Gretha Record – Coleman Marine Diesel Joni Geis – Sterling Associates

Kim Dumas – Denison Yachting

Supporting Women and Growing the Industry

Leilani Wales – AGL Yacht Sales, Inc. Kathi Krencik Ford – Reliable Documentation, Inc.
Kate Pearson – Safe Harbor Marinas Jodi Delfino – Delta Marine Sales Susan Nufer – Silver Seas Yachts

The CYBA-GEO Committee is committed to fostering an inclusive and thriving marine industry. Through initiatives like WWA, educational programs, networking events, and

scholarships, the committee continues to support professionals looking to advance their careers.

The CYBA extended its gratitude to Kurt Jerman of West Coast Multihull, who generously sponsored the elegant bouquets presented to the nominees. Special thanks went to the dedicated CYBA-GEO Committee members for their unwavering efforts in bringing this initiative to life.

For more information on the Women of the Waterfront Award and other CYBA-GEO initiatives, please contact (360)621-4682 or visit CYBA’s Website

About CYBA-GEO

The Growth-Expansion-Outreach (GEO) Committee of the California Yacht Brokers Association (CYBA) was dedicated to expanding industry opportunities, supporting professional development, and fostering community engagement. Through educational initiatives, networking events, and awards like the Women of the Waterfront Award, CYBA- GEO aimed to inspire, educate, and elevate the future of yachting.