Derek

Paint & Varnish Apprentice

Derek was born in Grosse Pointe, but raised in Holly, Michigan. He attended Northern Michigan University where he earned a BA in Spanish with a minor in Latin American studies. He even got to study abroad in Segovia, Spain during his third year in college. The majority of his career has been in the culinary world, but he feels that many skills learned in kitchens easily apply to boat building as well (Mise en place).

Derek and his partner, Rachel, have been together for 17 years. During this time, they’ve welcomed a 12-year-old daughter and a 9-year-old son into their lives. Additionally, they share their home with a 2-year-old mutt named Charlie. When Derek talks about his loved ones, he affectionately refers to them as “good people… and a good dog.”

When Derek isn’t prepping a boat or enjoying time with his family, you can probably find him participating in one of his numerous outdoor hobbies- fishing, hunting, camping snowboarding, canoeing or kayaking. “I have too many hobbies and too little time,” remarks Derek.

• Born in: Grosse Pointe, Michigan
• Graduated: Northern Michigan University
• Favorite projects to work on: So far helping to paint Theodora. What a beautiful boat!
• Favorite Fundamental: Protect the Environment. It is very nice to see that every effort is made to minimize waste and protect our planet.
• Best thing about working at Van Dam: I mean…you’ve seen the boats, right? I get to be a part of making those babies?! That’s pretty awesome…