In the commercial maritime world, few elements are as critical as reliable marine power energy. For workboats operating in ports, rivers, coastal waters, and offshore environments, uninterrupted electrical power is essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and operational continuity. From navigation systems to onboard equipment and mission-critical electronics, dependable power generation remains a non-negotiable requirement.
The International WorkBoat Show, held annually in New Orleans, Louisiana, has long been recognized as the most important trade event for the commercial maritime sector in North America. The 2025 edition of the show, which recently concluded, once again brought together vessel operators, shipbuilders, engineers, regulators, and technology providers from around the world.
Among the industry leaders present was Rehlko, the global power solutions brand formerly known as Kohler. Rehlko’s presence at the International WorkBoat Show reinforced its role as a reference brand in marine generators and advanced marine power energy systems for professional maritime applications.
For Brags & Hayes Generators, an official Rehlko authorized distributor, the event represented a clear confirmation of shared values: engineering excellence, reliability under demanding conditions, and long-term commitment to the commercial marine industry.
This article reviews the background and significance of the International WorkBoat Show, the professional audience it serves, the objectives and characteristics that define the event, and what it means for the market that a brand like Rehlko continues to play a leading role in this essential industry forum.
The International WorkBoat Show was created more than forty years ago to serve a very specific segment of the marine industry: commercial and industrial vessels. Unlike recreational boat shows aimed at consumers and leisure boating enthusiasts, this event was designed exclusively for professionals operating vessels as working assets.
From its early editions, the show positioned itself as a platform where operational realities, regulatory challenges, and technological innovation could be addressed in a practical, results-driven environment.
Why New Orleans Remains Central to the Show
New Orleans has consistently hosted the International WorkBoat Show, and for good reason. The region represents one of the most important maritime hubs in the United States due to:
Its strategic position along the Mississippi River
Proximity to the Gulf of Mexico
A strong concentration of shipyards, offshore service companies, and inland waterway operators
Over the years, the city has become synonymous with the workboat industry itself, reinforcing the show’s identity as the definitive meeting point for commercial marine professionals.
A Professional Audience with Real-World Demands
One of the defining characteristics of the International WorkBoat Show is the profile of its attendees. The event is not designed for casual visitors; it is attended almost exclusively by decision-makers and technical professionals.
Who Attended the 2025 WorkBoat Show
The most recent edition welcomed:
Commercial vessel owners and operators
Fleet managers and technical directors
Marine engineers and naval architects
Shipyard managers and boatbuilders
Offshore energy service providers
Government agencies and regulatory authorities
Port authorities and maritime infrastructure operators
These professionals attend the show to evaluate technologies that must perform reliably under continuous duty cycles and harsh marine conditions. For them, marine generators and marine power energy systems are critical infrastructure, not optional equipment.
What Sets the International WorkBoat Show Apart
The International WorkBoat Show stands apart from other marine exhibitions in the United States due to several defining features.
A Clear Focus on Commercial Vessels
The event concentrates exclusively on vessels such as:
Tugboats and towboats
Ferries and passenger workboats
Offshore support vessels
Pilot boats and patrol vessels
Research and utility craft
This focus ensures that discussions revolve around durability, redundancy, compliance, and lifecycle cost — key factors when selecting marine generators for professional use.
A Strong Educational Component
Alongside the exhibition floor, the show featured a comprehensive conference program addressing:
Emissions regulations and compliance standards
Hybrid and alternative power systems
Energy efficiency and fuel optimization
Integrated power management and automation
Safety, cybersecurity, and operational resilience
These topics provided valuable context for understanding how modern marine power energy solutions must evolve to meet current and future industry requirements.
Marine Power Energy: A Core Requirement for Workboats
In commercial maritime operations, electrical power is the backbone of vessel functionality.
The Role of Marine Generators in Daily Operations
Onboard marine generators supply power to:
Navigation and communication systems
Electronic control and monitoring equipment
Deck machinery and auxiliary systems
HVAC, lighting, and crew accommodation services
Safety and emergency systems
Any interruption in power generation can compromise safety, disrupt operations, and lead to costly downtime. As vessels become increasingly sophisticated, the reliability of marine power energy systems becomes even more critical.
Rehlko: A New Brand Identity Built on a Proven Foundation
The name Rehlko represents the evolution of a brand long associated with excellence in power generation: Kohler.
From Kohler Marine to Rehlko
For decades, Kohler established itself as a trusted supplier of marine generators for both recreational and commercial vessels. The transition to Rehlko reflects a strategic decision to unify and expand the brand’s focus on energy solutions while maintaining the engineering standards that defined Kohler’s reputation.
Rehlko continues to build on this legacy by offering advanced marine power energy solutions designed to meet the demands of modern maritime operations, including:
Continuous operation capabilities
Robust construction for harsh environments
Compliance with evolving emissions standards
Simplified maintenance and serviceability
Rehlko’s Presence at the International WorkBoat Show
Rehlko’s participation in the most recent International WorkBoat Show carried clear significance for the commercial marine industry.
Demonstrating Leadership in the Workboat Sector
By exhibiting at the show, Rehlko reaffirmed its long-term commitment to professional maritime applications. The brand’s presence highlighted its role as a technology leader capable of supporting:
High-duty commercial vessels
Mission-critical power requirements
Long operational lifecycles
Engaging Directly with Industry Professionals
The WorkBoat Show provided an opportunity for Rehlko to engage directly with vessel operators, engineers, and shipbuilders, discussing real-world challenges related to marine generators and integrated power systems.
These conversations reinforced Rehlko’s position as a manufacturer that understands the operational realities of the workboat industry.
Brags & Hayes Generators: A Trusted Rehlko Authorized Distributor
As a Rehlko authorized distributor, Brags & Hayes Generators plays a critical role in delivering these advanced power solutions to the marine market.
What Authorization Means for Customers
Authorization ensures that Brags & Hayes Generators provides:
Factory-trained technical expertise
Access to genuine Rehlko components
Compliance with manufacturer installation standards
Long-term service and support
For vessel owners and operators, working with a Rehlko authorized distributor offers confidence that their marine power energy systems are supported throughout their entire lifecycle.
Serving Both Commercial and Recreational Marine Markets
While the International WorkBoat Show focuses on commercial vessels, Rehlko and Brags & Hayes Generators also support the recreational marine sector.
Consistent Engineering Across Applications
Whether powering a workboat operating daily in demanding conditions or a recreational vessel requiring quiet, efficient performance, Rehlko’s engineering principles remain consistent:
Precision manufacturing
Proven reliability
Robust system integration
This versatility strengthens Rehlko’s position as a comprehensive provider of marine generators across multiple marine segments.
Buy your Rehlko marine generator here, backed by Brags & Hayes:
Industry Trends Reflected at the Show
The most recent WorkBoat Show highlighted several trends shaping the future of marine power energy, including:
Increased interest in hybrid power solutions
Greater emphasis on fuel efficiency and emissions reduction
Integration of power generation with digital monitoring systems
Rehlko’s solutions align closely with these trends, demonstrating the brand’s ability to adapt and innovate in response to evolving industry demands.
Why the International WorkBoat Show Matters to Marine Generator Buyers
For professionals evaluating marine generators, the International WorkBoat Show remains a critical reference point. The event allows buyers to:
Compare technologies in a professional setting
Engage directly with manufacturers and distributors
Gain insight into regulatory and operational developments
Rehlko’s continued presence at the show reinforces its credibility, transparency, and leadership within the commercial marine sector.
The International WorkBoat Show in New Orleans once again confirmed its status as the most important gathering for the commercial maritime industry. The event provided a platform where innovation, regulation, and operational experience converged.
Rehlko’s participation underscored its position as a leader in marine power energy, built on decades of proven performance under its former Kohler identity and strengthened by a renewed focus on advanced energy solutions.
For Brags & Hayes Generators, serving as a Rehlko authorized distributor, the show reinforced a shared commitment to reliability, technical excellence, and customer-focused support. Together, they continue to power the vessels that sustain commerce, infrastructure, and essential marine operations.
In an industry where power reliability defines success, Rehlko marine generators, delivered and supported by Brags & Hayes, remain a trusted choice for professionals across the marine sector.
