HANNAH Langsdale
Company: Whistling Man Schooner Co
Title: Owner
Age: 26
Career Highlights: I was very excited/scared/proud on the day I earned my captain's license in 2017 and the day I bought Whistling Man Schooner Co. in 2018. This award is certainly a proud moment 
as well - so thank you! I have such a wonderful network of people in both my professional and personal life who continue to encourage and support me on this journey.
Community Involvement: Taking an active role in my community is so important to me. In 2015, I biked across the US from New Hampshire to Vancouver with an organization called Bike & Build. We fundraised thousands of dollars for affordable housing organizations and helped out with different projects along the way. On that journey, I met inspiring people from all backgrounds, and I wanted to bring some of their generous spirit and sense of community back to VT.
As an organization, my company gives back to the community by taking part in sailing regattas and events to support local camps and nonprofit. We also donate cruises to silent auctions for many worthy local causes. I'm an active member of the Womenpreneurs, Waterfront Action Group, and Burlington Young Professionals. And, my boyfriend and I love picking up trash in our Winooski neighborhood!
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont? I was motivated to live in Vermont by some of my closest friends who had grown up here and thought it would be a good fit for me. I really fell in love with the place when I first ventured onto Lake Champlain and especially when I got a job working on it!
Most inspiring mentor and why: My most inspiring mentor is Mathias Dubilier who was the owner of Whistling Man Schooner Co. before I bought it. Over the last 4 years he has provided me with encouragement, challenge, and countless words of wisdom.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: Few people know that I was an entrepreneur in college. My product was called the "Nozy Cozy" which is a little crocheted nose hat warmer. I made and sold hundreds of them! Be on the lookout - the Nozy Cozy will be making its comeback someday!
What three words best describe you: Industrious. Collaborative. Optimistic.
Favorite Vermont escape: My favorite VT escape is the Casavant Nature Area in Winooski. It's close to my house and just about every morning I'll go for a walk with my dog and a cup of coffee - always gets my day going on the right foot!
Favorite downtime activity: My favorite downtime activity is to read. I'm part of a book club that's been together for five years now!
Favorite Super Hero: My favorite superhero is Elastigirl (aka Helen Parr aka Mrs. Incredible) with JackJack Parr being a close second!
What one song is on your playlist that are you ashamed to tell your best friend: Tiny Bubbles by Don Ho
Where do you see yourself professionally in the next 5-10 years? In the next 5-10 years, professionally I'd like to become a mentor for someone or to start an apprenticeship program for women looking for a career in the maritime industry.
