He was one of the geniuses behind the Turbo Encabulator.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ac7G7xOG2Ag
But what got him into trouble was inventing the 100mpg carburetor. Which was why the oil company that then employed him gave him an all expense paid trip to Hawaii, including a 3 hour tour on a sabotaged boat.
Ginger was a high priced prostitute meant to replace Marilyn Monroe as JFKs mistress, Mary Ann was a very high priced, *underaged* prostitute meant to do the same; but both became redundant, which is how they got on the boat.
I could see a rival wanting to disappear the Howells.