Owner David Rodriguez says three things have been critical to the rapid growth of his business, Rodriguez Portables: dependable equipment, great employees and top-notch customer service. Established in 2020 in Oroville, in north-central California, Rodriguez Portables has quickly moved beyond its initial one-man, 20-restroom inventory.
Take the company’s approximately 150 self-fabricated trailers that carry poly restrooms, both one- and two-restroom units used primarily on construction and agricultural job sites. The company builds its own trailers Rodriguez designed to stand up to a lot of abuse.
“We build them to my own specifications because our customers’ employees can be pretty rough on them — they aren’t always careful,” he says.
Rodriguez uses ¼-inch-thick steel to fabricate the frames. They also feature wide steps, which minimizes trip-and-fall hazards, he explains.
While conceding it’s not easy to attract and retain quality employees, Rodriguez says he’s been able to build a great team by paying competitive wages and awarding performance bonuses.
“We also provide a good work environment,” he points out. “It’s not rocket science, but sometimes people make it harder on themselves than it needs to be.
“Just treat people well and if you’re generating great revenue, share the wealth,” Rodriguez adds. “You have to reward them because they’re out there cleaning restrooms, wearing uniforms and representing your company.”
To ensure customers get great service, Rodriguez relies on a thorough training program that emphasizes high standards for cleanliness. The company’s main supervisor trains new employees for two weeks before they get their own truck, he says.
“They all get taught the same specific process,” he says, noting that the company uses cleaning and deodorizing products from Walex Products Company. “Sometimes I do random inspections if I see a restroom while I’m driving around. And my wife, Mariana, does too.
“We have high standards and we need to enforce them and hold employees accountable.” To learn more about Rodriguez Portables, turn to the May issue of PRO.
