It is imperative that our industry’s voice resonates loudly and clearly with our nation’s governmental leadership. A single misguided law, regulation or bill has the potential to cripple our capacity to thrive as businesses, instantly affecting the lives and livelihoods of thousands. ABC offers a valuable platform for us to convey the remarkable economic and social significance of the marine business to influential legislators and government bodies that shape our future. Furthermore, it presents an excellent opportunity for collaboration and networking with numerous industry peers, enriching us both personally and professionally. – Kris Carroll: President, Grady-White Boats
The American Boating Congress is an opportunity for our industry not just to get together, but also to collectively work together on how we will grow in the future. While we may compete daily, when it comes to advocacy and growing our industry, we are all teammates, and ABC is the one event that gives us a forum to allow us all to work toward a common goal: the growth and conservation of recreational boating and boating technology. – Lee Gordon: Vice President Corporate Communications, Public Relations and Public Affairs Brunswick Corp.
The 2024 American Boating Congress is a must-attend event on the calendar. From networking receptions with a broad range of industry colleagues to seminars and speakers that provide important updates on the issues affecting our industry, ABC provides a unique opportunity to meet with both industry leaders and key elected officials on issues such as strengthening significant marine infrastructure and addressing harmful vessel speed restrictions. Jason Blackburn: Vice President of Sales, Riverside Manufacturing
ABC is a valuable conduit to leadership in Washington and on Capitol Hill. It provides an opportunity to articulate the enormous impact that the marine industry has on the U.S. economy. I would encourage everyone to continue to advance and protect the marine livelihood from a regulatory and commerce standpoint. – Mick Webber: Principal, Marine Development Inc.
I attend ABC because it’s the best chance we have to inform our lawmakers of the importance of our industry to their district or state, and that protecting our interests protects the jobs of the people who voted for them. It’s also a chance to meet and work with the smartest leaders in our industry who share the same goals. – Steve Heese: President, Chris-Craft
Smoker Craft is a proud supporter of ABC. We believe that our association is working to protect our business, dealers and customers, and the boating industry from potentially harmful legislation. It’s important to advocate for the industry’s interests to ensure its continued success. – Peter D. Barrett: Senior Vice President of Marketing & Corporate Development, Smoker Craft
ABC is an excellent opportunity to inform and educate our elected representatives in Congress about important matters to our industry, including waterway access and use, boating safety, conservation, workforce development, marine infrastructure and taxation, among many others. Building these direct relationships with our elected colleagues is critical to the success of our industry and continued enjoyment of our products by our customers. – Phil Estes: Managing Member, Horizon Holdings
The American Boating Congress is a powerful platform that gives us all the opportunity to share our story, have meaningful conversations, align interests and achieve impactful results. It’s a well-organized event for connecting with industry peers and colleagues, and meeting with our elected officials in the House and Senate, where we can be a collective voice for our businesses, our industry and our communities. – Dana Russikoff: Co-Founder Rodan Enterprises; Founder One River Alliance
You have more power and influence than you realize. Congressional staff reports that constituent visits to Capitol Hill have more influence on undecided members than any other strategy. ABC is your chance to stand up and protect your customers, employees, and the recreational boating and fishing industry as a whole. You can make a difference by lending your voice and experience. – Natalie Carrera: Director of Marketing, Indmar Marine Engines
The NMMA board has consistently identified advocacy as a top priority. Having the opportunity to act on this by learning about the issues impacting us and meeting our representatives is invaluable. ABC may be the most important thing we do together as an industry. – Bill Yeargin: President and CEO, Correct Craft, NMMA board chair
I find ABC is very valuable for Imtra. We now bring multiple people so that our leaders of the future understand the benefits of working closely with elected officials. It’s also a great time to network with others in the industry. – Eric Braitmayer: President and CEO, Imtra Corp.
ABC isn’t about politics. It is about making sure boaters, fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts are heard so we can access the things that bring so much happiness. – Gus Blakely: Executive Vice President, Suzuki U.S.A.
This article was originally published in the May 2024 issue.
