Congressman Jim Hagedorn visits Alumacraft Boats

U.S. Representative Jim Hagedorn (R-MN-01) visited Alumacraft Boats’ facility in Saint Peter, Minnesota, where he toured the plant and met with employees to discuss the company’s operations and issues facing the recreational boating industry. Plant visits with elected officials are important opportunities to highlight the industry and NMMA encourages all members to work with them to schedule a visit.

James Irwin, President of Alumacraft Boats, raised his concerns regarding workforce development during the tour. Irwin and Congressman Hagedorn discussed the need for skilled workers and expanded technical education opportunities in the region; in particular, pursuing options with local high schools and vocational schools. Other topics discussed included the ongoing trade war, which Irwin indicated has caused the price of raw materials to increase significantly. Additionally, Irwin reinforced Alumacraft’s strong commitment to growing within the community, while continuing to provide local manufacturing jobs.

Irwin thanked the Congressman for visiting Alumacraft, noting, “From meeting in his office on Capitol Hill a few weeks ago, to touring our facility last week, we greatly appreciate Congressman Hagedorn’s commitment to learning more about the recreational boating industry and local jobs within the first district. We look forward to working with Congressman Hagedorn on providing more technical education opportunities and supporting expansion of local manufacturing jobs.”

Congressman Hagedorn also expressed his gratitude for the visit. “I appreciate the leadership of Alumacraft taking time to show me their facility and to explain the challenges and opportunities faced by manufacturers. We discussed the need to remove trade barriers, reduce unnecessary regulations and expand vocational education options to support a skilled workforce.”