An interview with Tim Hill, owner of J&H Boatworks Inc., 92519 Wireless Rd., Astoria, 97103.

J&H Boatworks has been in business for nearly 29 years, situated in a building that has been standing since 1934. J&H is primarily a working fabrication shop specializing in boat building and repair. Many of the boats they build are custom-made from the ground up. In the years they have been in business they have never done the same boat twice.

The shop has done a lot of work for the Coast Guard and Tim Hill says they feel honored and fortunate to serve those people.

J&H is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information call (503) 325-1197.

What do you want people to know about your business?

“We want them to know we’re here.”

Tell me about the most unusual project you’ve undertaken.

“We helped an Australian man work on a hovercraft he was building.”

What is your busiest time of year?

“Generally the good-weather months. Business is usually slower during bad weather. The exception to this is when we do a big job, for instance working on a significant new boat. Projects like that happen in the winter.

What is your business philosophy?

“You’re only as good as the people you work with.”

What can you tell me about the volume your shop does?

“It fluctuates from year to year. Here’s an example: In 2002 we built an oyster dredge that brought in $750,000 in eight months. And there was a year we took in $200,000.

You place a lot of importance on your crew. How significant to your business are they?

“A good crew is essential and I have that. My wife, Debi, handles office matters and I have two guys working in the shop. I have another business and I couldn’t take care of that without Kevin Eaton and Beau Brendon filling in here. The dedication and professionalism of these guys is critical. Their love, skill and passion are focused on the boat building end of the business.

– Patty Hardin