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Posted on 06/16/22...
WCMA Members,
Good morning. I attended the AFS 2022 AFS Government Affairs Fly-In that was held June 7-8 at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. This was a very good conference where we were brought up to date on issues important to our foundry industry. Speakers from government agencies and subject matter experts spoke on the global energy crisis, the need to boost U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and the need to provide incentives to help U.S. metalcasters recruit, train and retain workers to reduce the workforce labor shortage.
The first day’s session concluded with an industry reception and networking opportunity held at the Capitol Hill Club. Congressional Champion Awards were presented to Senator John Cornyn of Texas, Congressman Mike Bost of Illinois and Congressman Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin. In preparation for our meetings with our Senators and Congressmen, Stephanie Salmon, VP AFS Government Affairs gave an overview of issue briefs and tips for messaging with lawmakers.
WCMA was represented by members from Waupaca Foundry, Neenah Foundry and Washburn Iron Works. Wisconsin also had attendees from Badger Mining and Badger Alloys. We had very productive and interesting meetings with Senator Ron Johnson, Senator Tammy Baldwin, Representative Mike Gallagher and Representative Tom Tiffany.
Many of the speakers thanked us for coming to D.C. and stressed the importance of meeting with lawmakers to express our concerns on energy, buying American and labor shortages! All of you should consider attending this event next year. It is important our lawmakers hear from us. A common comment heard throughout the years is “If you are not at the table you are on the menu”.
I have attached a copy of the agenda and the handouts that were left with Congressional staff. Thank you for supporting the Wisconsin Cast Metals Association.
Steve Lewallen
Executive Director, WI Cast Metals Association
(Preliminary) Agenda Energy Security US Manufacturing Workforce
Metalcasting Industry VITAL to U.S. Economy:
Wisconsin State Impact Report Wisconsin State Table
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