About Us

Michael Peters

Founder

Since its founding in 1981 as a one-man design firm specializing in high-speed boats, Michael Peters Yacht Design has set the standards for style, performance and quality. The company’s philosophy is based on Michael Peters’ fundamental belief that all design should exemplify the fusion of art and science. The intense competition of international racing demands measurable, quantifiable performance that allows no loss of focus or deviation from the goal. While it was raceboats that first brought Michael Peters onto the international stage, these same exacting standards apply to the performance and aesthetic criteria that drive the design of every boat that bears the name of Michael Peters Yacht Design. With degrees in naval architecture, marine engineering and yacht design, the MPYD team melds advanced technology and engineering with the purest art form of clean, efficient design. The industry has recognized the firm’s work repeatedly with numerous awards and trophies. Throughout the last 40 years, over 40,000 boats have been built to the more than 500 designs produced by MPYD. Some firms excel at style, others performance. Michael Peters Yacht Design enjoys the unique ability to standout in both.

Chris Critchett

Naval Architect

Chris has been on the MPYD team since his internship in the early 90’s, post graduation from the Webb Institute with his B.S. in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. He works as structural engineering support, mechanical systems lead and project manager for various projects. When he’s not working on boats at MPYD; he’s diving, fishing, sailing, paddling, and/or collecting old boats he doesn’t have time to use.

Andrew McKay, P.E.

Principal Engineer

As the lead point of contact for military and commercial projects at MPYD, Drew specializes in structural design for recreational and military craft. Within Integrated product teams, he utilizes a balanced engineering approach to develop innovative solutions for unique end user requirements. Outside the office you may spot Drew spending time with his lovely wife and two children.

Ben Newman

Mechanical Engineer

Ben performs marine and structural engineering tasks and project management for custom and production vessels. As a designer and engineer, he oversees the fabrication of high precision custom mechanical mechanisms and components for use in the marine environment. He enjoys exploring and traveling to new places as well as working on restoration of classic cars.

Graham Kukla

Senior Designer

With a long-held passion for boats and Industrial Design, Graham brings a wealth of experience to the MPYD team. As the Senior Designer, he has completed a number of notable projects while continuing to refine his aesthetic and technical skillset and pursue innovation within the industry. When not hard at work, Graham can be found paddleboarding, tinkering with vintage cars and exploring Sarasota with his family.

Wendy Pitstick

Administrative Assistant

Wendy brings over 25 years of experience in the Marine Industry to the MPYD team. Her work in accounts payable, and receivable, along with bookkeeping, HR, client/vendor communications and more has lead the organization to success. She loves the outdoors and enjoys the picturesque Sarasota sunsets along with her daughter, son and sweet fur-baby.

Oscar Como

Naval Architect

Oscar started at MPYD in the Summer of 2021 after graduating from Webb Institute with a B.S. in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. He does mostly preliminary design work assisting with 3D modeling, drafting, weight study spreadsheets, and engineering calculations. When not working at MPYD, Oscar enjoys playing tennis, getting out on the water, watching football, and rooting for his favorite sports team, the New York Rangers.

Daniel Reilly

Naval Architect

Dan works on a variety of smaller tasks to support the senior team members, including 3D modelling, detail drawings and weight calculations. He graduated Stevens Institute of Technology with a B.S. in Naval Engineering. Outside of work you might find him sailing in Sarasota bay or in the mosh pit at a punk concert.

Robert Maes

Naval Architect

Lukas Howell

Industrial Designer

As the newest recruit and recent graduate from Savannah College of Art Design with a B.F.A in Industrial Design and Minor in Marine Design, Lukas helps around the office with a variety of tasks including 3D modeling, design, drafting, and rendering. A Colorado native, Lukas undoubtedly can be found in the Sarasota area exploring the outdoors. When not outside, he enjoys illustrating and reading.

Dawson Conrad

Mechanical Engineer