Salisbury University student Allison Fitzhugh is no stranger to waterman's ways. The youngest daughter of our managing partner, she's been immersed in the world of commercial fishing, crabbing and oyster farming from birth. Allie manages our new seafood market and retail store located in Cambridge and open 10 to 5, Mon. through Sat.

With deep family roots on Hoopers Island, Bobby grew up in Cambridge before moving to Fishing Creek and working as a watermen first full-time and later part-time while serving as a production manager for a local industrial manufacturer. Today, combining his experience as a commercial fisherman and equipment fabricator, Bobby is uniquely qualified to oversee our oyster production facilities.

Growing up surrounded by water, Natalie was inspired to pursue a career dedicated to reversing the crippling impact overfishing and population growth had on the Chesapeake Bay. While earning her B.S. in Environmental Studies & Biology from Randolph-Macon, she worked to educate others as Green Chair of Students for Environmental Action. Today, this experienced biologist and research professional is part of a dedicated team of scientists raising millions of oysters.

Master metal welder John Tall hand crafts our precision aquaculture equipment from raw material to completed product. He burnished his skills over dozens of years at a world-renowned metal manufacturer. John now translates our patented designs into Hoopers Island's signature line of equipment including Pearlception 2.0, the first American-made high-speed laser guided oyster sorter and grader.

For 23 years, David has worked to improve the lives of the fragile and often underserved members of our community. He began his career as a sales representative for a medical devices manufacturer, eventually becoming co-owner and operator of several nursing homes. Born and raised in Maryland, David and his family share a passion for the environment. At Hoopers, he supports all divisions to achieve our company's mission.

A custom designer who has shared in a half-dozen patents during his 40-year career, Billy works with the Hoopers team to develop new solutions and equipment for shellfish farming. He specializes in creating and building turn-key processes that have never been automated. Billy has a degree in agriculture engineering from the University of Delaware. The Dorchester County native's interests include wooden boat restoration and caring for horses on his farm.

After 15 years as a chef and hospitality professional, Chris turned his passion for the food industry to oysters. Before joining Hoopers Island, he owned and operated a business creating ice sculptures for special events and corporate clients. At USAIce, he met and joined forces with Ricky Fitzhugh. A former marine, Chris attended the University of Arizona. Today, he manages our equipment sales and fabrication division.