MARYVILLE, TENNESSEE – Skier’s Choice, manufacturer of award-winning Supra and Moomba boats, announced today that Co-Founder and Executive Vice President Rick Tinker will retire in Spring 2026, concluding a distinguished 40-year career in the marine industry.
Tinker, one of three original founders of Skier’s Choice in the late 1990s, has been instrumental in establishing the company as one of the largest towboat manufacturers in the world. Under his leadership in various executive roles including Executive Vice President and President, the company has grown from a once small operation to an industry powerhouse known for product excellence and strong dealer partnerships.
“I am honored to have worked with such an incredible team at Skier’s Choice, from our dedicated employees to our award-winning dealers, for going on 30 years,” said Tinker. “During my journey here, our team has delivered over 50,000 Supra and Moomba boats to consumers worldwide. I cannot thank our passionate owners enough for allowing us to be a part of their boating experience.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Tinker’s impact on the marine industry extends well beyond company growth. He served as the primary lead on the strategic acquisition of the Supra and Moomba brands from United Marine of Tennessee, a pivotal transaction that formed the foundation of Skier’s Choice. Under his stewardship, both the Supra and Moomba brands have each earned an unprecedented 20 consecutive Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards, a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to quality and customer experience.
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Throughout his tenure, Tinker helped build a culture centered on lasting relationships with dealers, employees, and customers. Many of the company’s dealer partners have worked with Skier’s Choice for over two decades, and numerous employees have celebrated 20-year anniversaries with the organization.
Tinker’s connection to the marine industry is deeply rooted in family. His father, Glenn, was a skilled tooling builder in the early days of the ski boat industry, and it was his uncle who gave him his first opportunity in marine manufacturing when he was 25 years old, launching a career that would span four decades. Prior to co-founding Skier’s Choice, Tinker spent nearly a decade in the ski and wake boat industry, advancing through senior finance and operations roles including Controller, Vice President of Finance, and Vice President and General Manager. This extensive experience and deep industry roots provided the foundation for him to successfully launch and build Skier’s Choice into the industry leader it is today. Fittingly, Tinker’s career came full circle as he had the privilege of working alongside his son at Skier’s Choice for over eight years before his retirement—a testament to the family legacy that has defined his journey in the marine industry.
Industry Leadership and Community Service
Beyond his corporate achievements, Tinker has been a devoted leader in industry organizations and his local community. He served on the Independent Boat Builders Inc. (IBBI) board from 2004 to 2024, including four years as Chairman. He has also contributed his expertise to the NMMA Boat Board and NMMA Big Board.
In his community, Tinker has demonstrated the same commitment to excellence, serving as Chairman of the Maryville City School Foundation Board and on the Maryville Little League Board, investing in the next generation of leaders.
Education and Professional Credentials
Tinker holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and an MBA from the University of Tennessee and is a Certified Public Accountant. His financial acumen and business expertise have been integral to Skier’s Choice’s sustained growth and success.
Looking Forward
In retirement, Tinker looks forward to continuing his community service work, traveling with his wife of 43 years, Betsy, and spending quality time with his granddaughter Emma. “One of the things I’m most proud of is the team and culture we’ve built at Skier’s Choice,” Tinker said. “The foundation is strong, and I have complete confidence in our leadership and employees to continue delivering exceptional products and experiences to our customers and dealers for many years to come.”
As Tinker transitions to retirement, Skier’s Choice remains well-positioned for continued success with its leadership team remaining unchanged. The company’s experienced management and award-winning operational structure will continue driving innovation and excellence across both the Supra and Moomba brands
About Skier’s Choice
Skier’s Choice is a leading manufacturer of premium inboard ski and wake boats, producing the Supra and Moomba brands. Founded in the late 1990s, the company has grown to become the fourth-largest inboard ski and wake boat manufacturer in the world. Skier’s Choice is headquartered in Maryville, Tennessee, where both brands are designed and manufactured.
For more information, visit supraboats.com and moomba.com.
