Spotlight on RC Francis: A Valued Boat Lift Employee | HydroHoist

Spotlight on RC Francis: A Valued Boat Lift Employee | HydroHoist

Written by HydroHoist Marketing Team

Key Takeaways

  • RC Francis built extensive experience across customer service, field sales, service, regional management, and controls assembly.

  • His knowledge of older boat lift systems allowed him to provide valuable technical assistance to dealers, warehouses, and internal teams.

  • HydroHoist recognized his loyalty, integrity, quality work, and willingness to support others throughout his career.

Over his nearly 20 year career, RC has held the positions of Customer Service, Field Sales and Service, he opened the Grand Lake store and served as Regional Sales Manager. Today, he is in charge of controls assembly, and assists dealers and warehouses with some technical assistance related to older style boat lifts, and assists other departments when called upon.

RC began his career at HydroHoist in 1986, and left in 1996 to pursue an opportunity out of state. He came back in 2007 and looks forward to celebrating 20 years with HydroHoist in January, 2017.

“RC has excelled in every role we ask him to play for HydroHoist. He is very loyal, highly dedicated, and has a ‘can-do’ approach. I have been privileged to work with RC all these years and he has certainly made HydroHoist a better company and place to work,” said CEO Mick Webber. When asked what he likes most about his job at HydroHoist RC commented, “Being trusted to meet and exceed customer requirements with very little supervision. Above all I enjoy working with the people employed by HydroHoist.” RC has been married for 49 years to Mary; they met at Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, KS. They have one son, a granddaughter and grandson. Their son is employed by American Airlines as an engineer in the landing gear section. RC said his son follows his advice “Listen to your coworker’s ideas – they may save your job. Refrain from public criticism of subordinates and other coworkers. If comments to others are not positive, in some way, don’t say it. Always be known for personal integrity and quality work” – RC maintains that this advice has assisted his son in building respect from management and coworkers which gave him major recognition from American Airlines as a result.

Their granddaughter is pursuing a nursing career and grandson is a student at Rogers State University, in Claremore, OK. When not at HydroHoist RC enjoys hunting and fishing with old friends and anyone else that wants to join us. “I appreciate Mick and Audrey’s willingness to hire and maintain a highly diversified work force; otherwise I personally would not likely have this opportunity to work for HydroHoist at 71 years of age!”

FAQs

Why is experience with older boat lift systems valuable?

Long-term product knowledge helps manufacturers and dealers troubleshoot legacy equipment that may still be in service. It can also improve the accuracy and efficiency of replacement-part and maintenance guidance.

How does cross-functional experience benefit boat lift customers?

Experience across service, sales, operations, and assembly gives employees a broader understanding of customer needs. It can help teams identify practical solutions and communicate more effectively with dealers.

 What does a controls assembly specialist contribute to boat lift production?

Controls assembly specialists help prepare and verify the components used to operate lift systems. Their technical knowledge can also support troubleshooting, product consistency, and dealer assistance.

What qualities help build a long career in marine manufacturing?

Technical knowledge, adaptability, integrity, and respect for coworkers can support long-term success. A willingness to learn from others is also valuable as products and manufacturing processes evolve.