OTTAWA LAKE, MI — U.S. Representative Tim Walberg, Chairman of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, toured Associated Equipment Distributor (AED) member Buck & Knobby Equipment Company to engage with company leadership and employees on the critical role of small and family-owned businesses in driving Michigan’s economy and the importance of strengthening the skilled workforce pipeline.
A key focus of AED’s government affairs program is connecting members with their elected representatives through its legislative visit program. Walberg’s visit is one of dozens of similar tours facilitated by the association at AED member locations this year. These events provide legislators with a first-hand look at the critical role equipment distributors play in the economy, while giving AED members a platform to voice their priorities and build relationships with policymakers.
Walberg toured the Ottawa Lake, Michigan, facility and joined a roundtable discussion with Buck & Knobby executives, where topics included the industry’s growing demand for skilled technicians, the role of career and technical education, and the need for federal policies that better align training programs with workforce needs.
“I sincerely enjoyed visiting Buck and Knobby Equipment and meeting with their skilled team of professionals,” Walberg said. “Buck and Knobby is a great example of American ingenuity in action, and we must ensure that we are providing students with the technical skills employers like them are seeking in today’s modern economy. I remain committed to strengthening workforce development opportunities to bridge the current disconnect and grow our economy.”
“Our visit with Chairman Tim Walberg was fantastic," said Joe Grady, Vice President of Buck & Knobby Equipment Company. "He took the time out of his busy day to sit down with the leaders of our company and explain what he is working on from his office and how it will impact us in the future. The Chairman is a very down-to-earth person who listens and understands how the local mom-and-pop businesses have large impacts on the economic success of his district. His transparency to our leaders and employees was hands down, exceptional. What a great visit.”
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As a trade association representing equipment distributors, AED continues to advocate for federal policies that support workforce development, job training, and pro-growth solutions to ensure the continued success of its members.
“Connecting our members with lawmakers through facility visits is one of the most effective ways to highlight the challenges and opportunities facing the equipment industry,” said Daniel Fisher, AED’s Senior Vice President of Government & External Affairs. “These interactions help ensure that industry priorities are understood and reflected in policymaking.”
Established in 1919, AED is a not-for-profit international trade association based in Schaumburg, Illinois, representing companies involved in the sale, rental, manufacturing, and support of equipment used in construction, agriculture, mining, forestry, power generation, and industrial applications. AED enhances the ongoing success and profitability of its member companies through services and information including public policy advocacy, industry education and career development, industry research and analysis, and conferences.
