Edison Sailing Center instructor teaching young sailors

Our Team

The people who make it all happen

Mike Burby

Operations Director

Mike Burby has been a valued part of the team at Edison Sailing Center since 2009, bringing years of experience and a deep passion for life on the water. Originally from Torrance, California, Mike made his way to Southwest Florida and quickly became an integral part of ESC’s programs and daily operations. As Operations Director, he helps keep everything running smoothly while supporting staff, programs, and the many sailors who come through the center each year.

Carter Kurtz

Carter Kurtz

Head Opti Coach

Carter Kurtz grew up sailing at Edison Sailing Center, first stepping into a boat here when he was just 7 years old. Now 19, Carter has come full circle—sharing his love of sailing with the next generation as the leader of ESC’s Opti Fleet. When he’s not on the water coaching young sailors, Carter serves the community as a firefighter in Lee County. His dedication, leadership, and lifelong connection to ESC make him a natural mentor for the program’s youngest sailors.

Elizabeth Reynolds

Elizabeth Reynolds

Program Director

Elizabeth Reynolds has been part of the sailing community since the earliest days of the program, back when it was known as Royal Palm Sailing Club. Growing up around the boats and the dock, she developed a lifelong passion for sailing and youth education. Today, as Program Director at Edison Sailing Center, Elizabeth oversees programs, manages social media, and teaches the popular homeschool sailing classes. Her connection to the program runs deep—she even still has the Opti she sailed when she was just 10 years old.

Three 420 sailboats on the beach

Join Our Team

Edison Sailing Center is always looking for passionate individuals to join our team. If you love sailing and want to make a difference in young lives, we'd love to hear from you.

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