Announcing the New Coalition, Representing 10,000 Strong
Now more than ever, Americans are recognizing the importance of the nation’s essential supply chain operators. The Wisconsin Domestic Maritime Coalition (WIDMAC), comprised of employers and unions from around the Badger State, will educate state leaders, media and policy makers on the importance of Wisconsin’s maritime workforce, advocating for the nearly 10,000 domestic maritime workers across the state that continue to keep America’s maritime supply chain moving forward in a safe and efficient manner.
Wisconsin’s Economic Impact from Domestic Maritime Jobs Nearly Doubles
According to the findings of a new report conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) on behalf of the Transportation Institute (TI), Wisconsin ranks among the top twenty states in the nation for the number of domestic maritime jobs, employing 9,670 individuals and generating over $635.3 million in worker income. This thriving industry produces $2.2 billion annually for the Wisconsin economy – an 88% increase since the previous study was completed.
Wisconsin Shipyard Receives Funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation
Each year, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) awards millions of dollars in discretionary grants to U.S. small shipyards across the nation through the Small Shipyard Grant Program. This funding works to ensure that America’s shipyards remain competitive amidst a rapidly changing global marketplace, while providing jobs for working families in their communities.
Fraser Shipyards, Inc. of Superior, WI, which offers services from emergency repairs to brand-new craft to large industrial fabrications, will receive nearly $800,000 as part of this program.
Fincantieri Marine Group (FMG) is the American subsidiary of Fincantieri and operates three shipyards on the Great Lakes:
Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding – specialists in construction, repair, and conversion of commercial vessels and sustainment of United States Coast Guard (USCG) cutters;
Fincantieri Ace Marine – builders of the USCG’s Response Boat Medium, aluminum superstructures for the Freedom-class, and high speed coastal interceptor and patrol vessels.
FMG shipyards use a lean manufacturing process and handle total vessel lifecycle: design, construction, delivery, training, warranty, repair, and sustainment. The FMG family has constructed over 1,800 vessels, including more than 60 dredges. FMG employs more than 2,100 American maritime men and women who brace all-weather conditions with a strong Midwest work ethic to deliver and repair ships that keep the Wisconsin economy moving forward.
