Oscar Rodrigues Defines the Hinckley Culture
When Oscar Rodrigues first stepped into a Rhode Island boat shop as a teenager, he wasn’t chasing a maritime dream — he was simply helping his family make ends meet. At age 16, he started sweeping floors and emptying trash at C.E. Ryder, builder of the Black Watch, a line of classic sportfishing boats originated in the Eighties. Yet during this time, something deeper took root and Rodrigues eventually made his way to Portsmouth, Rhode Island to join Hinckley Yachts. As boats evolved — including Hinckley’s iconic Talaria — so did Rodrigues’ craft. Mentored by industry legends, he rose through the ranks to become a respected Electrical and Electronics Foreman at Hinckley’s Portsmouth yard. Four decades after arriving with little more than sheer grit, Rodrigues oversees the systems that power some of the world’s most beautiful yachts — a testament to perseverance and passion.
We hear you’re a bit of a legend at Hinckley. Why is that?
“I think people see me that way because I’ve put my heart into this company for a long time. I take a lot of pride in the work we do.”
Did you grow up loving boats?
“I didn’t know a single thing about boats when I was a kid. Growing up, I wanted to be a soccer player. Getting into the boat industry was not really a choice, it was really the
only thing available for me at the time. Knowing what I know now, and the love I have for boats, I would not change a single thing if I could. I would do it all over again.”
How would you describe Hinckley’s culture?
“It’s all about putting customers’ needs first. We’re dedicated to building the best product possible by doing things the right way — no shortcuts, no cutting corners. Quality and craftsmanship are at the heart of everything we do.”
What part of your day do you most enjoy?
“My role as Electronics Foreman is to shape the next generation and instill our company culture. I most enjoy helping customers when they encounter issues on their boat — whether they’ve forgotten how to operate something, or something unexpected happens. Being able to assist them remotely so they can continue enjoying their vessel with family and friends without changing their plans is incredibly rewarding.”
Is there a specific project you’re most proud of?
“This is like asking me to pick a favorite child! But I was very proud to be part of the team that built the first 30 Talaria 29 boats in Rhode Island. When Hinckley moved that product line to Maine, I transitioned into the service side.”
It’s all about putting customers’ needs first. We’re dedicated to building the best product possible by doing things the right way — no shortcuts, no cutting corners. Quality and craftsmanship are at the heart of everything we do.”
What is your favorite part about working with the Hinckley team?
“The people. I enjoy working with a team that has each other’s backs. When there’s a problem, we don’t waste time pointing fingers — we just figure it out together. Everyone brings something to the table, and we all want the boats to come out right. It feels good to be part of something where people take pride in the work and support each other. I’ve been here a long time, and that team spirit is what keeps me going.”
And what’s your favorite part about working with the Hinckley customers?
“Problem-solving and breaking down issues in a way that makes sense to customers, especially when they think something’s complicated. Helping them fully understand what’s going on with their boat is important. I also focus on what they actually need instead of trying to sell them stuff they don’t, because that’s how you build respect and trust.”
Hinckley CEO Gavin McClintock adds, “Oscar embodies the very best of Hinckley — he’s atrue leader who puts our people and our customers first, always with positivity, care, and an unwavering commitment to solving problems. His dependability and genuine dedication make him an invaluable member of our team and a hero to our customers.”
