Leadership Lessons from the Open Sea with Kent Matsuoka 

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Invited to sail aboard the USCGC Eagle, Kent Matsuoka experienced firsthand the management and leadership principles passed down through generations of sea captains and instilled in Coast Guard officer candidates as they prepare to lead their own divisions and ships. He reflects on how these leadership lessons, forged through decades of sailing, extend beyond the water into youth development, leadership training, and film production.

An avid sailor with over 40 years of experience, Kent has crossed oceans aboard traditionally rigged tall ships including Californian, Irving Johnson, Robert C Seamans, Tole Mour, and others. A member of Tall Ships America and the Explorers Club, his time at sea spans both historic vessels and modern research vessels. Onshore, he volunteers with various sail training organizations helping at-risk youth build teamwork and confidence through sailing, and applies these same principles to the collaborative demands of film production, where coordination and clarity are essential.

This program was organized by Reymundo Perez #1219.