Employee Spotlight: Q&A with Josh Rodriguez

What is your background? Where are you from? What are some of your hobbies? Any fun facts about yourself?

My background is a mix of Irish and Puerto Rican. My mom’s side of the family is Irish, and my dad is 100 percent Puerto Rican. Growing up, I was always into sports. I played football and baseball and tried just about everything, but I never had any exposure to boats or the marine industry early on.

Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my kids. I enjoy hanging out with them, playing video games, and going out to eat. I’ve also always been good with my hands. In my teenage years, I worked on cars, doing basic repairs and diagnostics, things like alternators and batteries.

How did you get into this industry?

I got into the marine industry when I was 21, about to have my first child. I knew I needed a more stable career and better opportunities. At the time, I was working for a moving company, and my son’s grandfather helped me get started at Waterline in Warren. I began in the paint department, priming hulls, and quickly realized I enjoyed the work and the environment.

In 2016, a friend mentioned Bristol Marine. I took a chance, joined the team in May, and started in the paint shop. When things slowed down, I helped out in the yard, moving boats and assisting wherever I was needed. That transition stuck, and I’ve been in yard operations ever since.

What excites you about this industry?

What excites me most is learning something new every day. There are always different tools, different boats, and different challenges. The skills I learn here carry over into my life outside of work, whether it’s problem-solving or hands-on projects at home.

I also enjoy being around boats and spending time on the water. It’s a unique lifestyle and very different from a typical job. I get to meet people from all over the world, see a wide variety of vessels, and be part of something that not many people get to experience. And it doesn’t hurt when customers bring snacks.

Why did you choose Bristol Marine?

I chose Bristol Marine because it was a good opportunity and closer to home. I didn’t know many people here when I started, but I took the chance and quickly realized it was the right decision. The leadership is strong, expectations are clear, and everyone works hard to get the job done.

Over the years, I’ve had opportunities to go elsewhere, but I never felt the need to leave. I enjoy the work, respect the leadership, and value the team I work with every day.

What’s coming next for you with Bristol Marine?

What’s next for me is continuing to build a strong team. I enjoy training and supporting employees who come into the yard with little or no experience and helping them grow their skills. Watching people learn how to safely handle equipment, move boats, and gain confidence in the yard is something I take pride in.

I’m excited to see how the team develops over the coming seasons and to continue growing with Bristol Marine. I truly enjoy working here and plan on staying long term.