WASHINGTON, D.C. — May 18 — Last week, the recreational boating industry, including the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, visited Washington, D.C. for the annual American Boating Congress (ABC) hosted by the National Marine Manufacturers Association. After a two-year hiatus, ABC made its in-person return to our nation’s capital to meet with lawmakers to discuss issues in the marine industry and the role they can play in alleviating them.
ABC is an integral event for the recreational boating industry because it lets lawmakers hear from their constituents about issues impacting their businesses, and the recreational boating industry at large. These conversations are key in developing relationships between Members of Congress and attendees, and also lay critical groundwork for the government relations teams at MRAA and NMMA.
“ABC is one of the most important events for the recreational boating industry, as it is our chance to put the spotlight on our industry and its top priorities,” said Chad Tokowicz, Government Relations Manager, MRAA. “I thank each attendee of ABC for coming and participating in Hill meetings. It presents an opportunity to provide a genuine request and helps move the needle when Members of Congress and their staff hear directly from their constituents.”
Conversations with lawmakers focused around alleviating supply chain hiccups, moving forward the PREPARE Act, addressing workforce and more. MRAA staff and members, and state Marine Trade Association partners were integral in driving forward the conversation on workforce, which naturally arose during conversations, as shortages are felt across the nation in a variety of industries.
“Every business owner in the industry understands that the marine industry is in a workforce crisis. We simply do not have enough new skilled workers entering the workforce to match up with those we are losing,” said Wendy Mackie Director of Workforce and Foundation Development for MRAA. “Our workforce concerns resonated with Members of Congress and their staff, as these issues persist throughout many industries today. Conversations focused on the current workforce need, and also included generating support for MRAA’s workforce development efforts.”
Recently, the MRAA applied for a workforce development grant through the US Department of Labor’s “Apprenticeship Building America” Grant Program.
Despite ABC taking place during the second week of May, one of the busiest times of year for MRAA members, we encourage you to participate next year! If you have any questions about ABC, how to get involved or want to learn more about advocacy, email Tokowicz at Chad@mraa.com.
About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.
