ORLANDO, FL (March 3, 2026) - Nautique proudly announces that Chief Engineer Eric Miller has been named the recipient of the 2026 WSIA Leadership Award, presented by the Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA). The prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made a significant positive impact on the water sports industry through leadership, innovation, advocacy, and service.
Eric Miller represents a rare kind of water sports leader: someone whose lifelong passion on the water is matched by deep technical leadership that has tangibly shaped the modern towboat era. From waterskiing at age two to early wakeboarding adoption, competitive wakeboarding, and coaching, Eric’s roots in the sport are authentic - and he paired that athlete’s understanding with a Mechanical Engineering degree from Clemson to build a career defined by innovation.
Over his 18-year tenure at Nautique, primarily as Chief Engineer, Eric has led engineering, CAD, and prototype teams while advancing core systems that determine performance, safety, and the on-water experience - running surfaces, control systems, structural design, and integrated technologies. Just as important as the products themselves, he has helped scale and professionalize a world-class product development organization, building the processes and teams that sustain long-term success.
Eric has been named inventor on more than 20 patents and has contributed to many others, helping protect and expand Nautique and Correct Craft intellectual property. He has led engineering efforts on numerous industry-defining products that changed the trajectory of towboat performance and design. These include the Ski Nautique 200, the G23 and G-Series featuring the patented Nautique Configurable Running Surface® (NCRS), the Nautique Surf System® (NSS), and the Super Air Nautique Paragon. Additional highlights include the Carbon Ski Nautique and MicroTuner® technology as well as the most recent all-new 2026 Ski Nautique.
What makes Eric’s impact especially meaningful is that his work has never been innovation for innovation’s sake. His leadership philosophy is rooted in understanding hydrodynamics at a fundamental level - down to where every drop of water goes - raising performance standards while protecting brand equity and mentoring high-energy teams to create products that genuinely improve the customer experience and bring families together on the water.
“Eric has undeniably influenced the direction of Nautique - quite literally shaping the wakes and waves our customers enjoy behind their boats,” said Nautique President, Greg Meloon. “His vision, technical leadership, and disciplined execution have not only elevated Nautique, but have helped redefine performance standards across our industry. We are incredibly proud to see him honored by his peers and grateful for the lasting impact he continues to make as he helps lead towed watersports into a bright future.”
Alongside his engineering leadership, Eric has also shown consistent industry service -through WSIA Tow Boat Committee leadership, technical support for Wake for Warriors, support of grassroots competitions and clinics, and mentoring young people interested in engineering - making him a clear example of influence that advances both the sport and the community around it.
“From his leadership of the WSIA’s Towboat Committee to his work at Nautique innovating for our industry, Eric Miller is driving our industry forward,” said Lee Gatts, the Executive Director of the Water Sports Industry Association. “The WSIA is grateful for his leadership and is excited to honor his work with a 2026 WSIA Leadership Award.”
About Nautique Boat Company: Since 1925, Nautique has set the standard in the marine industry through a relentless pursuit of what’s possible on the water. As a subsidiary of Correct Craft, Nautique’s passion for performance and innovation continue to shape on-water experiences around the world. Renowned for building the best water ski, wakeboard, and wakesurf boats on the market, Nautique pushes the industry forward through award-winning technology, unmatched craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail. Every boat reflects a commitment to excellence that defines Nautique as the industry leader. Beyond the water, Nautique Cares unites employees and athletes in giving back - extending support to communities and individuals in need across the globe. The world’s best ski boat. The world’s best wake boat. A company that truly cares. Learn more at Nautique.com
About Correct Craft: Celebrating over 100 years of excellence in the marine industry, Correct Craft is a Florida-based company with global operations. Focused on “Making Life Better,” the Correct Craft family includes Nautique, Centurion, Supreme, Bass Cat, Yar-Craft, SeaArk, Parker, and Ingenity boat companies, Pleasurecraft Engine Group, Indmar Marine Engines, Velvet Drive Transmissions, Mach Connections, Merritt Precision, Osmosis, Watershed Innovation, and Aktion Parks. For more information, please visit www.correctcraft.com