Native Son Marine Services was officially established in 2016, starting as an after-hours and weekend operation while working across multiple roles in the marine industry.
During that time, work included captaining boats and hands-on electrical work at a Yamaha dealership. The business grew through real client work and referrals, built on trust, reliability, and consistent results.
In 2020, operations shifted full-time. When charter work came to a stop, the focus moved entirely into building the business. What started as uncertainty quickly turned into momentum after a major electronics job was approved at the right time, marking a turning point.
Since then, Native Son Marine Services has grown steadily year after year, built on reputation, technical skill, and work that holds up in real conditions.
There is a difference between getting something working and making sure it stays working. At Native Son Marine Services, the focus is on long-term reliability, not quick fixes.
Each system is approached with a full understanding of how it connects with the rest of the boat. Electrical, mechanical, and electronics are not treated as separate pieces. They are part of one system that needs to function together without failure.
Clients trust the process because it is consistent. Clean installs, clear communication, and no unnecessary upselling. Just straightforward work that delivers results.
Austin’s experience in the marine industry started early, growing up around boats and spending time on the water from a young age. That early exposure developed into hands-on experience during high school, including working on boats and completing a full rebuild of a 17-foot center console.
After high school, he attended Chapman School of Seamanship and earned his captain’s license. He went on to work in commercial fishing before continuing his technical training at WyoTech in Daytona Beach.
From there, he gained experience working in both fiberglass and mechanical roles at Viking Yachts, followed by advanced electrical work at Parker Yacht in Fort Lauderdale. It was during that time that his focus on electrical and electronics systems became the foundation of his expertise.
Chris brings a strong technical background and real-world experience to the team. After high school, he served in the United States Navy, working on submarine systems and supporting vessels.
After his military service, he returned to Florida and continued working in the marine industry before joining Native Son Marine Services as Lead Outboard Technician. His experience and attention to detail play a key role in delivering reliable mechanical and system work.