John Cherbini

Senior Product Manager • Technology Leader • Innovation Driver

15+ years driving product strategy and innovation from enterprise storage systems to consumer drones. Expert in product roadmaps, cross-functional leadership, and bringing complex technical products to market.

About Me

Senior Product Manager with a unique blend of technical depth and strategic vision. Over 15 years driving product innovation from enterprise storage systems at IBM to breakthrough consumer drones, with hands-on expertise in maritime systems and advanced engineering.

20+ Years Experience
50+ Boats Worked On
100+ Projects Delivered
4 Career Domains

Maritime & Carpentry

From traditional wooden boat restoration to modern marine systems, combining craftsmanship with technical precision.

Keefe Kaplan Maritime (2020 - Present)

Lead carpenter and marine systems specialist, working on luxury yachts and commercial vessels. Specializing in custom woodwork, system installations, and restoration projects.

Marine Carpentry System Installation Yacht Restoration Custom Fabrication

KKMI Boatyard Experience

Extensive work at one of the West Coast's premier boatyards, handling everything from routine maintenance to complete vessel overhauls on boats ranging from 30 to 200+ feet.

Hull Repair Rigging Mechanical Systems Project Management

Notable Projects

Classic Yacht Restoration

Complete restoration of 1960s wooden yacht including hull repair, interior rebuild, and modern system integration.

Commercial Vessel Refit

Led team for major refit of 120ft commercial fishing vessel, including new wheelhouse and updated electronics.

Custom Boat Building

Built custom 35ft sailing yacht from plans, handling all carpentry, systems, and finishing work.

Career Journey

A diverse path through enterprise technology, autonomous systems, consulting, and maritime craftsmanship.

IBM Product Management

Led product strategy for enterprise storage solutions, managed N-series NetApp partnership, and drove DS8000 product roadmap for Fortune 500 clients.

2004 - 2013

Drone Product Leadership

Product Manager for breakthrough consumer drones including 3D Robotics Solo and Parrot Sequoia. Led product strategy from concept to market launch.

2013 - 2020

Advanced Systems Product Development

Product strategy and development for precision turret systems, managing complex technical requirements and stakeholder alignment.

Recent Projects

Maritime & Carpentry

Hands-on boat building, restoration, and marine systems work. Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.

2020 - Present

Featured Maritime Projects

Boat Building & Restoration

Traditional wooden boat construction and restoration projects at KKMI, combining time-honored craftsmanship with modern marine technology.

  • Custom wooden boat construction
  • Historical vessel restoration
  • Marine systems integration

Marine Carpentry

Precision carpentry and joinery work for marine applications, focusing on durability, functionality, and aesthetic excellence.

  • Custom cabinetry and furniture
  • Deck and interior woodwork
  • Repair and maintenance solutions

Marine Systems

Integration of modern marine systems including electrical, plumbing, and mechanical components for enhanced vessel performance.

  • Electrical system design and installation
  • Plumbing and water systems
  • Engine and propulsion systems

Get In Touch

Interested in collaborating or learning more about my work? Let's connect and discuss how we can work together.