Markey Machine Announces Ownership Transition and New Leadership

[By Markey]

Markey Machine, a Seattle-based manufacturer of marine winches and deck machinery, has completed an ownership and leadership transition, positioning the nearly 120-year-old company for its next chapter.

Eric Rose has assumed the role of President & CEO and acquired an ownership stake in the company. Jeff Dempke, who has spent more than 20 years at Markey, has been promoted to Director of Business Operations and has increased his ownership investment. Blaine Dempke, whose 48-year career helped shape Markey's reputation across the maritime industry, will remain involved as Advisor Emeritus.

The transition brings new investment from within the organization while retaining the technical knowledge, customer relationships and industry experience that have supported Markey for generations.

"What Blaine built is remarkable, and I don't take it lightly," said Rose. "Markey's name means something on the water because of the people who have stood behind this equipment for generations. My job is to carry that forward, invest in our team and make sure Markey is just as dependable for the next generation of crews."

Throughout his career, Blaine Dempke helped guide Markey through changes in vessel design, marine technology and customer expectations. His longstanding relationships with vessel operators, shipyards and employees have been instrumental in the company's development.

"Markey's success is built by its people and strengthened by the relationships we've developed with our customers," said Blaine Dempke. "I'm confident in Eric and the leadership team, and I look forward to serving as an advisor as they carry the Markey legacy forward."

As Advisor Emeritus, Dempke will continue providing historical and technical perspective to Markey's leadership team.

The ownership transition is supported by an experienced leadership team spanning engineering, manufacturing, financial management and customer service. Alongside Rose and Jeff Dempke, the team includes Casey McGarity, Chief Financial Officer; Scott Kreis, Vice President of Sales & Engineering; and Art Wheatley, Vice President of Operations.

Markey has also appointed Ryan Hogge as Vice President of Product Support and Nick Loeffler as Director of Project Management, strengthening the company's ability to support customers throughout the working life of their equipment.

Based in Jacksonville, Florida, Hogge oversees aftermarket operations, including replacement parts, engineering assistance, field service and Sentinel inspections. He is also developing the Markey Authorized Technician network to expand regional service access, particularly along the East Coast and Gulf Coast.

Loeffler coordinates complex projects, including equipment rebuilds requiring engineering, manufacturing and field service support, providing customers with a central point of contact throughout project execution.

Under its new ownership, Markey will continue investing in its workforce, strengthening internal coordination and expanding technical support while maintaining its focus on specialized marine deck machinery.

"We have an incredible foundation to build on," Rose said. "The knowledge within this company, the quality of our people and the trust our customers have placed in Markey are things we take seriously. Our goal is to honor what Blaine and generations before him have built, while making Markey an even stronger, more responsive partner to the maritime industry for the next 120 years.