The Recreational Boating Industries Educational Foundation (RBIEF), the charitable foundation of the Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA), recently announced the recipients of its 2026–2027 scholarship program, celebrating 40 years of supporting students pursuing careers throughout Michigan’s recreational boating industry. This year’s program awarded $25,000 in scholarships to deserving students committed to advancing the future of boating through education, leadership, and professional development.
Among this year’s recipients was Christian Yonkus, who was selected as the 2026 recipient of the Gregory P. Krueger Scholarship—RBIEF’s highest-level scholarship. Named in honor of the late Greg Krueger, former President of Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales, RBIEF co-founder, and MBIA Board Director, the scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, perseverance, and a strong commitment to the marine industry.
Meet This Year’s Recipient
Christian’s recognition extends beyond receiving one of the industry’s most prestigious scholarships. Following the announcement, Christian shared that this marks his third consecutive RBIEF scholarship, and that he was honored as this year’s top applicant, earning the Gregory P. Krueger Scholarship. Currently serving as a Summer Engineering Student at Tiara Yachts, Christian will attend Hope College this fall to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering, with the goal of building a career in the marine industry.
Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales is proud to celebrate Christian Yonkus and all of the 2026–2027 RBIEF scholarship recipients. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the Recreational Boating Industries Educational Foundation and the Michigan Boating Industries Association for their continued commitment to education and workforce development within the recreational boating industry.
Congratulations, Christian. We look forward to following your journey and seeing the impact you’ll make on Michigan’s marine industry in the years ahead!
Honoring Greg Krueger’s Legacy
The Gregory P. Krueger Scholarship was established in memory of Greg Krueger, whose leadership helped shape both Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales and Michigan’s recreational boating industry.
As President of Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales, an RBIEF co-founder, and a Michigan Boating Industries Association Board Director, Greg believed deeply in mentorship, education, and investing in future generations of marine professionals. His commitment to strengthening the boating industry extended well beyond yacht sales, helping create opportunities for students pursuing careers in engineering, manufacturing, marina operations, service, and other areas of the recreational marine industry.
Today, the scholarship bearing his name continues that mission by recognizing students whose dedication, perseverance, and passion reflect the values Greg championed throughout his career.
Why JBYS?
With 7 Great Lakes locations, 2 in Naples, FL and 21 mobile service vehicles, JBYS is your trusted partner for boating year-round. Many of our clients head south for the winter, and our Naples location ensures we’re here to support your boating needs wherever the water takes you. Whether you’re exploring the Great Lakes in summer or cruising Florida’s coastline in winter, we’re here to provide world-class service, expertise, and an unmatched selection of yachts and boats.
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