American Boating Congress is coming up. Make plans to join us in DC

When you think about boating and destination spots, certain places jump to mind: the San Juans, the Med, Washington DC. I thought I’d stick that last one in there, but that’s what happens each year during the American Boating Congress (ABC). You see every year around April-May, the boating scene in the US gets together in DC to engage with key elected officials and colleagues from around our country. The pace is dizzying and it’s a great experience but it’s not for everyone. What I mean by that is that if you already have an interest in our system of government or if you wish you had the ear of key decision makers, then this is your trip. If you are content that sort of stuff is for other people, then I would not recommend this event.

Last year, Rick Gladych (NMTA’s Superyacht Committee Chair) joined me in DC. To mix things up a bit, here’s an interview I had with him recently on this unforgettable trip.

What did you like most about ABC? The diversity of businesses, sectors and topical discussions that pertained to them individually and as a whole. I found myself devising strategies for the issues that arose during the meetings which helped me to understand and communicate my ideas to industry leaders in other sectors.

Who is ABC for? What type of people? American Boating Congress is for any marine businessperson that is affected by laws and regulations that impact the general marine industry. It would also appeal to people who are interested in the political system in Washington D.C..

What surprised you about ABC? As someone who thought I was keeping track of my industry, the fact that I did not know about it until last year. All in all I was surprised at how much I took away from the round tables and Capitol Hill visits. I really got a thorough schooling on the subject matter.

When you came back to the Northwest, what were you telling your colleagues? We have to go in force next year! The fact that federal legislation is being made because of things that are being done at ABC means that lawmakers will thrust their laws upon us instead of for us if we are not there. To cop what you (Peter Schrappen) always say, "We have to be part of the conversation"! To take it a step further, we have to guide the conversation and commandeer it.

How has your business improved since your time at ABC? My business metrics are very simple...if I write direct business it was worth it. I am now working on a plan for NMMA members for their new export initiative. We will introduce it to businesses exporting their goods during METS. This was directly a result of showing up last May.

How has being an NMTA committee chair been enhanced by attending ABC? We were given another platform from which to spread the gospel of The Great Pacific Northwest. It gave us more relevance and started a national "buzz" that continued on through the Ft Lauderdale Boat Show and again last week in Miami.

I’m telling you the truth that this Congress brings a smile to my face. I can watch all the news I want and fire off all the emails to my delegation as possible, but if I’m not there representing you during this time, then you aren’t getting represented. That said, Rick and I would like some more company this year. George Harris has booked his (direct) flights. Have you? Please let me know if you’d like to join us for this year’s ABC.

--Peter Schrappen (peter@nmta.net)