The Yacht Brokers Association of America (YBAA) Board of Directors gathered January 20-21, 2026, at the Bradenton Yacht Club in Florida for its winter board meeting. Led by President William Bolin, CPYB, the two-day session brought together board members and staff to advance the association's mission and set priorities for the year ahead.
Message from President Bolin
Bill Bolin (YBAA President, 2025-2027) emphasized that the association's 2026 priorities are driven directly by member feedback from last year's survey, which identified expanded training programs and the collection and dissemination of data and market intelligence as top needs. YBAA is already working on expanded education access and topics, and will host YBAAU in the Northeast this July. Looking ahead, Bolin outlined the association's commitment to making YBAA and the CPYB names synonymous with professionalism, integrity, and expertise. Through strategic relationships with other marine trade associations, YBAA will promote itself as the go-to source for yacht sales development, training, and information—cementing its position as the recognized industry leader.
New Strategic Plan Approved
The board unanimously approved YBAA's Strategic Plan for 2026-2028, a comprehensive framework that builds on the association's century-long legacy as the Original Standard of Excellence in yacht sales. The plan sets three clear priorities: deliver the education the industry trusts most, strengthen our position as the central hub for yacht sales professionals, and advance CPYB as the defining credential in the profession.
"We built this industry's foundation. We're leading it forward," said Executive Director JP Skov, CPYB.
The operational plan includes key initiatives launching in 2026, including developing a Young Professionals Group, expanding the apprentice program, creating dealer-focused education, and launching new consumer education campaigns. The association will also cultivate new industry partnerships with organizations like MRAA, NMMA, Sail America, and ABYC, while improving legislative advocacy activities.
Members can review the complete strategic framework here
Annual Meeting Highlights
The Annual Meeting of the Members resulted in the re-election of Doug Wielhouwer, CPYB to the Board of Directors as a Director at Large. The meeting also included a special recognition for Jonathan Chapman, CPYB for his dedicated service to YBAA. Chapman will transition from the board to serve as Chairman of the Certification Advisory Council.
Financial and Operational Updates
Treasurer Ryan White, CPYB, presented the year-end 2025 financial report and the board approved the 2026 budget. Education Program Manager Jaclyn Kimball and Managing Director Michael Battaglia, CAE, provided updates on the CPYB program, including the 2026 webinar schedule and technological improvements. A key focus is raising CPYB renewal rates above 80% and exploring a new administrative-level CPYB designation.
Save the Date: YBAAU 2026
Mark your calendars for YBAAU 2026 in Providence on July 15, 2026. Registration information will be announced soon.