Business owner Mike Martin, 62, founded his boating company over 40 years ago. Taking the nontraditional route of forgoing college, he has championed learning at his own pace while making a career out of his hobbies.
Though an expert in boat electricity and plumbing, his years of experience have taken a toll on his health. He frequently experiences sciatic pain as a result of crawling into small spaces and being on his knees for hours on end and has sought medical help to relieve his condition.
Martin ultimately proves that a college education does not define long-term success. Although it has not always been a smooth ride for the entrepreneur, he takes pride in keeping his company afloat and working a job he is passionate about.