Smoker Craft Announces Leadership Changes - Peter Barrett to Become CEO
- BoatBlurb Contributor
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read

Smoker Craft Inc. has unveiled a series of leadership changes, appointing Peter Barrett as Chief Executive Officer following the retirement of Doug Smoker.
In a brief statement, the company said: "(a)s part of our leadership transition, we’ve expanded our executive team to support continued growth, strengthen our dealer network, and build on our family-owned legacy. Together, this team brings decades of experience, deep industry knowledge, and a shared commitment to our employees, dealers, and customers. With five generations of family leadership and a strong foundation behind us, we’re excited for what’s ahead as we continue investing in our people, our products, and the future of Smoker Craft, Inc."
The company also announced several additional updates to its executive team:
Phil Smoker – President
Krista Sparkes – Vice President of Sales, North America
Garrett Cannizzo – Chief Financial Officer
Josh Drudge – Chief Operating Officer
In a statement to BoatBlurb, new CEO Peter Barret added, "“I am honored to follow Doug and to carry forward the Smoker and Schrock family traditions in leading this company. Our focus is to build on that legacy by supporting our dealers, delighting customers through innovation, and investing in the products, people, and processes that will drive Smoker Craft, Inc.’s growth for decades. We will continue to optimize our manufacturing and operations while staying true to the traditional Smoker Craft values and the long-standing relationships we have with our employees, dealers, suppliers, and customers.”
Smoker Craft Inc – the parent company to the Smoker Craft, Starcraft, Sylvan and SunChaser boat brands -- represents the largest manufacturer of aluminum fishing and pleasure boats in North America and carries a longstanding reputation as a leader in manufacturing technology and marine advancement.
Based in New Paris, Indiana, the family-owned company dates back all the way to 1921. It began as the Smoker Craft Lumber Company, specializing in oars and paddles, before producing its first boats in 1963.
Their cutting-edge manufacturing facility represents the forefront of aluminum boat construction utilizing robotics and laser precision technology.


























