Lacey, WA – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) spent August District Work Period visiting several local manufacturers, highlighting products uniquely made at home in the South Sound.
Local manufacturers shared concerns about their businesses, the economic climate, and the federal policies enacted by President Trump.
Manufacturers in the South Sound are an important – often overlooked – part of our state and Pacific Northwest economy,” said Strickland. “These local businesses employ thousands, generate local revenue, and support their local communities. Instead of uncertainty and chaos from the President, they deserve federal policies that help them thrive.”
Aquagga – Destroying PFAS Contamination
PFAS are toxic chemicals found in communities across the nation, including in the South Sound. Strickland toured Aquagga, a startup business in Tacoma, that is fighting against the spread of these dangerous toxins in local waterways.
Homeostasis – Working to Keep Us Safe
Homeostasis is pioneering advanced research to create valuable carbon materials. Strickland visited the Homeostasis team in Tacoma to hear how their technology is meeting national security needs.
Hexas Biomass – Creating Sustainable Fuel
With technology geared towards sustainable aviation, Hexas Biomass is a clean energy innovator creating jobs at home. Strickland toured their Olympia headquarters to hear how the federal government can continue supporting sustainable work.
Alta Forest Products – Building Sustainably
With locations throughout Washington state, Alta Forest Products is a major employer playing a large role in the regional economy and creating more sustainable building and fencing products. Strickland toured their South Sound facility to see their product manufacturing in action.
SAFE Boats – Creating Next-Generation Vessels
SAFE Boats is a 100% employee-owned operation headquartered in Washington, supplying ships that keep military, law enforcement and fire professionals safe across domestic and international waters. Strickland learned more about SAFE Boats’ capabilities at their Tacoma facility, especially how the company continues to support Ukraine against Russia’s invasion.
Puyallup Tribe’s New Manufacturing Enterprise: Puyallup Chocolates
Strickland joined Puyallup Tribe Vice Chairwoman Sylvia Miller for a tour of the Tribe’s recently acquired chocolate factory. Locally produced, Puyallup Chocolates has quickly become a quality staple for communities across the country.
1DROP – Building More Housing
Black developers like 1DROP are helping to create the housing that the South Sound needs. Strickland joined the 1DROP team to tour their multi-family units and the 60 senior housing units that will help the housing crunch in Lakewood.
James Hardie – Building For Longevity
James Hardie specializes in products engineered for climate resilience and durability in housing. Strickland joined James Hardie employees in Tacoma, learning more about their operations and how sustainability is incorporated into their production.
Vulcan Metals – Meeting Submarine and National Security Needs
With a long history of partnering with the U.S. Navy, Vulcan Metals is a steel foundry specializing in submarine material development. Strickland visited their facility in Tacoma to discuss how the federal government can continue supporting workforce recruitment and retention efforts.
###