We’d love to hear from you, get in touch with us
The more we know about you, the more we can continue to develop innovative skiffs and products designed to greatly enhance your shallow water angling experience. So please, take a moment to tell us just a little bit about yourself and let us know if you’d like to have a brochure.
Capt. George Sawley
georgesawley@chittumskiffs.com
Co-Founder, Chief Sales Officer
772.254.9064
Stephen Ford, Texas representative
stephenford@chittumskiffs.com
Director of Guide Relations and Director of Conservation
772.254.9064
THE TEAM
George Sawley is a Co-Founder of Chittum Skiffs, and has a long history as an off-shore fisherman after a childhood in the Middle Keys fishing both inshore and in the back country.
His career began while still a teenager, capitalizing on his previous experience as a commercial fisherman, and his real world experience has been instrumental at turning him into the skiff developer he is known for today.
He and Hal Chittum have a history that goes back more than 30 years, long before they decided to join forces to create the ‘best damn skiff’ in the industry.
His career began while still a teenager, capitalizing on his previous experience as a commercial fisherman, and his real world experience has been instrumental at turning him into the skiff developer he is known for today.
He and Hal Chittum have a history that goes back more than 30 years, long before they decided to join forces to create the ‘best damn skiff’ in the industry.
Research and development efforts took almost two years, and as George puts it, the first 30 boats were works in progress. Since then, however, they created a manufacturing facility and started managing the process from start to finish. The end result has been the Chittum Skiff, the winning boat in most tournaments that it enters, and the skiff of choice for anyone committed to speed, stealth, strength and a dry ride.
Stephen began working with Chittum Skiffs in 2023. Before that he has been the co-founder of 6 other companies over the past 35 years.
Most recently, Stephen published his first book (Going back: planning an unforgettable high school reunion). He is also a co-founder of Ucopia Global, LLC, a Pandemic-created sourcing and supply company that provided PPE to the State of Colorado and engaged with numerous medical services companies to assist in pandemic-related matters.
He has 30+ years of experience managing sales, operations and marketing teams in multiple industries, including data-driven, communications-oriented, and wireless technology companies, such as Telecommunications, Inc. Time Warner Cable, the Providence Journal Company, Ucopia, Inc. Internet Gift Registries Inc. Target Media Networks, and ValueVision. He is also a very enthusiastic and very modestly talented fly fisherman with decades of experience staring at fish who had better things to do.
Stephen has a JD is from Columbia Law School and a BA from Boston College.
Most recently, Stephen published his first book (Going back: planning an unforgettable high school reunion). He is also a co-founder of Ucopia Global, LLC, a Pandemic-created sourcing and supply company that provided PPE to the State of Colorado and engaged with numerous medical services companies to assist in pandemic-related matters.
He has 30+ years of experience managing sales, operations and marketing teams in multiple industries, including data-driven, communications-oriented, and wireless technology companies, such as Telecommunications, Inc. Time Warner Cable, the Providence Journal Company, Ucopia, Inc. Internet Gift Registries Inc. Target Media Networks, and ValueVision. He is also a very enthusiastic and very modestly talented fly fisherman with decades of experience staring at fish who had better things to do.
Stephen has a JD is from Columbia Law School and a BA from Boston College.
Sammy Avellaneda is an accomplished Infusion manager, boasting extensive expertise in infusion production and quality control, with more than 5 years of experience in overseeing infusion operations, streamlining processes, and upholding product quality standards. Sammy’s unwavering commitment to efficiency and continuous improvement greatly contributes to the success of production operations. He is driven by his desire to have a four-day work week, allowing him to be a devoted father and coach to his two young boys.
Royce Brooker has boat building encoded in his DNA. He’s a 3rd generation boatbuilder, and an 8th generation Floridian. He grew up exploring Florida’s coastlines hunting, fishing, and exploring. His knowledge, operational skills, and authenticity will be a driving force in Chittum’s innovation and factory efficiencies, and we couldn’t be more proud to elevate and grow our own internal employees.
Mike Casey has been an integral part of Chittum since the inception of Snakebight nearly 8 years ago. A native Floridian, he has relished everything that Florida and its surrounding waters have to offer. Having spent most of his life in or around boats, Mike has maintained a profound passion for fabrication and composites. Although he dedicated a significant portion of his 20s to crafting prosthetics and orthotics, life has brought him full circle, allowing him to pursue his childhood dream of boat fabrications in earnest.
Bio on the way!
Chris Demott’s journey in the marine industry began in 1990, crafting boats for renowned companies like Rio Mar Yachts, Island Hopper, and Twin Vee. His dedication led him to spend 18 years with Novurania of America, specializing in the construction of custom megayacht tenders. Through hard work and expertise, he ascended to the role of General Manager.
In 2020, Chris transitioned to Chittum Skiffs, bringing a wealth of knowledge encompassing every facet of boat building. His role as the Rigging Manager showcases his commitment to enhancing the team’s capabilities and fostering growth. Chris’s leadership is poised to guide the company towards new heights, ensuring they continue to produce the finest skiffs in the world.
About Stephen Ford. Stephen Ford is the Chittum Director of Conservation and Guide Relations. His passion for marine wildlife and his proximity to the Texas Coast made him the perfect leader of our conservation initiatives. He is widely recognized within the company for his critical product feedback during the early design and modeling phase of Chittum Skiffs – leading us to a better-performing boat and improved manufacturing techniques. This experience with the products also led to his appointment as the leader of our direct communication efforts with the guide community. Stephen lives in Rockport Texas and is happy to provide demos and to help with the purchase of your Chittum.
Dean started working with Chittum in February of 2020, working in the Rigging
Dean started working in the Marine industry in high school, at a boat dealership in central Florida. From washing boats to prepping for delivery and installing electronics. After a brief stint designing trusses, he decided to rejoin the industry with Chittum.
Dean started working in the Marine industry in high school, at a boat dealership in central Florida. From washing boats to prepping for delivery and installing electronics. After a brief stint designing trusses, he decided to rejoin the industry with Chittum.
Before my tenure at Chittum, I dedicated 8 1/2 years to life science, steadily climbing the ranks and ultimately securing a quality control position. As a dedicated production manager, I possess the ability to grasp the bigger picture, with a deep-rooted history in the life science sector. My primary focus lies in process enhancement, and I actively participate in Kason’s and EHS activities in a highly controlled and demanding production facility. My journey with Chittum began in July 2019 as a gelcoat finisher, where I ensure that the product finish aligns with the expectations of our clients. I bring four years of experience in tooling, painting, non-skid application, and ceramic coatings to the table.
Nick’s deep connection to the water, cultivated through spearfishing and surfing, not only provides him with a profound understanding of marine environments but also a genuine passion for the industry. This passion likely translates into a keen attention to detail in managing yacht parts, ensuring that every component aligns with the high standards of the marine world. Additionally, his journey from a parts associate to a parts manager showcases his dedication and ambition for upward growth, contributing to the success and expansion of Chittum Yachts.