Episode 71- Powerboat Talk with Cade Wilson owner of Sterling Engines
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Cade Wilson, from Corporate Career to Owning a Race Engine Shop
In this episode of Powerboat Talk, we sit down with Cade Wilson, the new owner of Sterling Engines, a name deeply rooted in offshore racing history and high-performance marine engines. After a successful corporate career and a leadership foundation shaped by service in the Army, the U.S. Naval Academy, and as a Naval officer, Wilson set out to acquire and grow a business. That journey ultimately led him to the one place he initially tried to avoid, offshore racing.
Rebuilding Sterling Engines and Navigating Industry Challenges
We dig into how a calculated acquisition quickly turned into a hands-on rebuild of both operations and reputation. Wilson shares insights into restoring equipment, improving workflow, and navigating early challenges, including the loss of key Super Cat customers.
The conversation also explores the realities of stepping into a legacy performance engine builder and repositioning it in today’s competitive marine industry.
High-Performance Engine Technology and Strategic Partnerships
Wilson breaks down Sterling’s technical direction, including its partnership with Ilmor Marine for marinized V-10 Viper engines, expanded work with Mercury QC4v and outboard engine platforms, and the growing use of MoTeC electronic fuel injection systems. This episode highlights the evolving landscape of performance boating, engine building, and the technology driving modern offshore racing.
Leadership, Racing, and the Howe2Live Super Cat Team
From leadership and shop culture to race-day reliability and customer accountability, Wilson explains how his military mindset translates directly into the engine room. That same approach has carried into the cockpit through his unexpected partnership with Mike Howe and the Howe2Live Super Cat team, where he made his debut behind the wheel.
This episode offers a unique look at rebuilding a legacy marine engine brand, the business of offshore racing, and what it takes to compete at the highest level of performance boating.
Follow Sterling Engines on Instagram @SterlingEngines and Facebook @Sterling Engines
Visit Sterling online @ www.sterlingengines.com
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