20 Questions with Jon Paige - Rigging Department Manager

Jon Paige

1. How long have you worked at Crowley’s? 3 and ½ years

2. How did you first start working here?  I was in the process of moving to Chicago from Bermuda and applied for a position with the rigging department.

3. Which departments have you worked in? Only Rigging.

4. What is your favorite time of year at Crowley’s?  Right about now; we get a chance to breathe and get (somewhat) organized for the Fall.

5. How often do you go boating? No-where near enough!

6. What kind of boat? Usually, any racing sailboat.

7. Did you grow up boating? Yes.  My Grandfather was a very keen sailor and first took me sailing when I was about 3 years old.

8. What is your favorite boating activity?  Sailboat racing.

9. How many technicians work in your department?  3 full-time, with seasonal staff for the spring and fall.

10. How often do they go to training?  We try to get them on at least one training course each year.

11. What job specific training do you have?  I went to University in England to study Boatbuilding and Yacht Design.  I have also attended courses at Harken and Navtec.  I also have 5 years as a boat-builder and 12 years as a Yacht Rigger.

12. What certifications do you have?  Certifications are rare in Yacht Rigging, but I am certified to repair Navtec hydraulics.

13. What is your number one recommendation to boat owners? The engine, head and electronics are not the only things that require regular maintenance; don’t forget the mast, rigging, winches and sails.

14. In your area of expertise, what can a boat owner do to maintain their boat?  Give the rig a quick visual check every time you use the boat to make sure everything is in place.  Have the rig unstepped and inspected at least once every 3 years.  Winches should be serviced every year.

15. What is the owner complaint that you hear most often? “My furling mainsail/genoa is not furling properly.”  Furling mainsails in particular can be very tricky to operate if they are not handled properly; keep a little tension on the outhaul as you furl, otherwise the sail furls too loosely inside the mast and jams.  Boom height is also important.

16. What is your number one money saving tip for boat owners?  Remove your running rigging (including the halyards) for the winter.  It is possible to wash the lines and it will prolong their life drastically.

17. What is the toughest part of your job? The long, busy spring season.

18. When are you most likely to be found in the harbors?  On the really tough rigging repairs.

19. What is your favorite winter activity?  Visiting my family in England.

20. What is the best way to get a hold of you to ask a question?  Email me anytime: jrp@crowleys.com