Discussion Focuses on Veteran-Owned Businesses, Manufacturing Challenges and the Importance of Small Businesses
Eagle Metalcraft was honored to welcome Congressman Brandon Williams to our facility for an in-depth tour and a productive discussion on the pressing issues facing the manufacturing sector in our region.
Congressman Williams engaged with the dedicated team behind Eagle Metalcraft’s success, including:
- Carl Austin, Co-Managing Partner at Bowers CPAs & Advisors
- Joe Pedrotti, Vice President of Pathfinder Bank
- Robert Griffin, Regional Director of Onondaga SBDC
- Jim D’Agostino, CEO & MEP Center Director at TDO (Train Develop Optimize)
- Justyna Valencia, Member Engagement Manager for MACNY
- Tiffany Latino-Gerlock, Director of Government Relations for MACNY
- Eagle Metalcraft Team Members:
- Cindy, Business Development Manager
- Jim and Erin, who led the tour
- Alan, who conducted demonstrations on different equipment
- Jon, who discussed CNY Graphics, Eagle Metalcraft’s onsite silk screening, pad printing, and digital printing facility
Congressman Williams’ Focus on Veteran-Owned Businesses
With his impressive military service and entrepreneurship background, Congressman Williams underscored the vital importance of supporting veterans like Michael Bower, owner of Eagle Metalcraft, a veteran-owned small business. He engaged in meaningful discussions about the key challenges and opportunities within our region’s manufacturing sector, emphasizing the need for a diverse business ecosystem.
The Congressman addressed critical issues such as production bottlenecks, tax burdens, and hiring and recruiting difficulties. He acknowledged the effort and dedication required to succeed in business and expressed his support for small enterprises that create jobs and drive innovation.
“Manufacturing is back, and we need skilled people,” he said, highlighting the importance of attracting and retaining talent in Central New York. He encouraged families who have left to consider returning, highlighting the strong community spirit and deep family connections that make this region special.
The discussion also focused on the impact of large manufacturers like Micron potentially siphoning resources from smaller companies and the need for strategies to support over 1,500 manufacturers in the five-county radius of Central New York. Congressman Williams shared insights on the advantages of local production to ensure quality control and minimize supply chain disruptions.
Supporting Small Businesses
Congressman Williams highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses like Eagle Metalcraft, which are the backbone of our local economy. While large companies like Micron are crucial, a diverse range of businesses is essential for a healthy economic ecosystem.
Addressing global competition, Congressman Williams called for policies that make New York State more business-friendly and resilient against outsourcing. He also voiced strong opinions on international trade, emphasizing the need for fair practices and protection against economic threats.
About Congressman Williams
Originally from Dallas, Texas, Congressman Williams has a rich background that includes military service and entrepreneurial success, aligning with Michael Bower’s background. The Congressman served as a nuclear submarine officer in the Navy during the build-up to the Gulf War. His naval career included six strategic-deterrent patrols in the Pacific on the USS Georgia.
In 2010, he and his wife, Stephanie, settled in Central New York and founded an agribusiness in the Finger Lakes region. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a software company that helps large industrial manufacturers modernize their production plants and secure critical infrastructure from cyberattacks.
Eagle Metalcraft is grateful for Congressman Williams’s visit and his commitment to understanding and addressing our challenges. His military, entrepreneurial, and community service experience positions him as a promising advocate for the manufacturing industry in Congress. We look forward to continued dialogue and collaboration to ensure a prosperous future for Central New York’s manufacturing sector.
The Congressman’s visit was a valuable opportunity to share our successes and challenges, and we appreciate his dedication to supporting small businesses and the manufacturing industry in Central New York.
About Eagle Metalcraft
Eagle Metalcraft employs a mix of team members. We have employees who have been with the company for decades and new faces eager to continue the company’s transition into the digital age. As the premier sheet metal fabricator, Eagle Metalcraft maintains an “old world craftsmanship” using state-of-the-art capital equipment to improve quality and productivity.
Experience the difference with Eagle Metalcraft – where precision meets excellence. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service, ensuring your needs are always met. We look forward to teaming up with you. Contact us today!
Eagle Metalcraft
Phone: 315.437.8323
3550 Burnet Avenue
East Syracuse, NY 13057-2316
Email: info@EagleMetalcraft.com
