Amo Highlights Rhode Island’s Blue Economy at Roger Williams Oyster Farm and Hinckley Yacht Services

Bristol, RI - TODAY, Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) continued his 2026 Blue Economy Tour today with visits to Roger Williams University's shellfish farm and research facilities and Hinckley Yachts' expanded Portsmouth facility, highlighting the research, skilled workers, and businesses driving Rhode Island's maritime economy.

At Roger Williams, Amo toured the shellfish farm, hatchery, and research labs with faculty and researchers to discuss advances in shellfish production, aquaculture, and blue biotechnology, as well as opportunities to prepare students for careers in the Blue Economy. They also discussed federal policies to support aquaculture, fisheries, and environmental conservation. At the newly expanded Hinckley Yachts facility in Portsmouth, Amo met with workers and discussed the skilled trades and maritime jobs that keep Rhode Island moving.

"Rhode Island's Blue Economy means cutting-edge research, skilled jobs, and businesses building the future right here in the Ocean State," said Congressman Gabe Amo. "At Roger Williams, researchers are advancing aquaculture and blue biotech. At Hinckley, skilled workers are building and servicing world-class yachts. I'm looking forward to bringing what I learn on this tour back to Washington to help inform how to grow these industries, create opportunities for Rhode Islanders, and protect our ocean."

"We were pleased to welcome Congressman Gabe Amo to Roger Williams University as a stop on his Blue Economy Tour. At RWU, marine research, hands-on student learning, and partnerships with Rhode Island's aquaculture industry come together to address real-world challenges facing our coastal communities," said Margaret Everett, Provost, Roger Williams University." Touring our Marine and Natural Sciences building and CEED facilities offered an opportunity to showcase how university research and education support a sustainable blue economy and help prepare the next generation of marine science professionals."

"CEED's research, education, and collaborations support a thriving, sustainable aquaculture industry in Rhode Island. With our industry partners, we're advancing aquaculture technology and blue biotechnology, while preparing the next generation of professionals to address challenges facing our coastal ecosystems," said Koty Sharp, Director, Roger Williams University Center for Economic & Environmental Development. "We're excited to share with Congressman Amo how university research can power our state's growing Blue Economy."

"Hinckley is investing in our flagship Portsmouth yard to create a premier facility that reinforces Rhode Island's leadership in the marine trades and reflects the craftsmanship at the heart of our business," said Peter Clark, Chief Development Officer, Hinckley Yachts. "By modernizing the yard and enhancing the working environment, we aim to attract the next generation of marine trades talent while providing our highly skilled team with opportunities to build rewarding, long-term careers."

Background

Congressman Amo kicked off his 2026 Blue Economy Tour with a visit to REGENT Craft, where he helped cut the ribbon on their new electric Seaglider factory.

Rhode Island's Blue Economy directly employs 36,000 Rhode Islanders and contributes over $5 billion to the state's gross domestic product every year.

In 2024, Congressman Amotoured Rhode Island's First Congressional District to highlight the Ocean State's leadership in the Blue Economy across labor, education, business, and defense.

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