John Friday, President
John, a native of the Midwest, received his Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Iowa in 1985 and spent six years in his family's insurance business before coming East to explore the Eastern Seaboard and Caribbean aboard his sailboat. During a passage down the Chesapeake Bay, John discovered Virginia's Northern Neck and knew that he'd found a new home. After settling back into a life ashore, John came to Custom Yacht Service in 1993 as a mechanic's helper. The following four years saw him gain experience in the fiberglass, woodworking, brightwork, and installations departments before taking a desk job to establish the brokerage business and moving into the position of marine service writer. During the same course of time, John obtained a USCG Master Mariner's License to operate the towing and yacht delivery responsibilities.
In early 2011, John purchased the boatyard from it's founder, Lester Potter. In the Custom Yacht Service tradition, John and his crew of craftsmen and technicians continue to provide quality, non-compromising work to customers who expect the best in custom yacht service
In early 2011, John purchased the boatyard from it's founder, Lester Potter. In the Custom Yacht Service tradition, John and his crew of craftsmen and technicians continue to provide quality, non-compromising work to customers who expect the best in custom yacht service
Denni Wilmer, Office Manager
Born and raised in Lancaster County, our office manager Denni hails originally from the community of Ottoman. In her spare time she enjoys reading, photography and coaching for the County's Girl's Coach Pitch League. Raising two daughters with her fiancee, Brie, Denni and her family live in Irvington.
Mario Ramirez, Fiberglass Technician
We welcomed Mario Ramirez to the Custom Yacht Service crew in October of 2020. A native of south central Mexico, Mario has come to us by way of California, North Dakota, Tennessee, and most recently Warsaw, Virginia. Professionally, his background has been in fiberglass mold-making and repair from custom automobile bodies, to sailing and racing boats, to swimming pools and spas. Not only is Mario easy to be around and a dedicated worker, he is a true craftsman first and foremost and a delight to observe as he plies his trade.
David Keys, Lead Mechanic
A native of Fredericksburg, David Keys is our newest addition to the crew at CYS. David was a self-employed landscaper and handyman, operating in central Virginia before coming to the Northern Neck. When he's not working David enjoys kayaking, dirt-biking and off-road 4x4 truck running. He also spends his free time hiking and is a camping enthusiast. For us, David is an excellent mechanic and has been able to make the seamless transition into the world of marine mechanical systems with ease. David has a great sense of humor, always has a good thing to say, and is a real joy to have as a member of the Custom Yacht Service Team.
James Thomas,
Detailing Technician
James Thomas, born and raised in the Northern Neck of Virginia, was welcomed to the Custom Yacht Service crew in March of 2023. James is a graduate of Northumberland High School and the Northern Neck Technical Center in Warsaw. James joined CYS with 6 years of hands on experience in the boat building and maintenance industry. James enjoys his work and takes pride in seeing the results of his trade. In his spare time he enjoys boating, fishing, hunting and spending time with family.
Justin Baugh, Systems Technician
Justin Baugh, age 22, is a dedicated worker whose passion for the sea runs deep. Raised in a coastal town, his love for the water started early. He has a keen eye for detail and a knack for problem solving. Outside of work, Justin's adventurous spirit leads him to the great outdoors. He is an avid hunter and fisherman, he finds solace and excitement in the wilderness. He is always willing to try new things when the opportunity presents itself. Even though he loves exploring the outdoors, that does not stop him from spending as much time with his family as he can. He cherishes going on weekend fishing trips with his dad and enjoys spending time with his siblings. Just attended two years at the Northern Neck Technical Center where he completed his Marine Mechanics classes.
