ASSA MEMBERS ADVOCATE FOR KEY ACTIONS WITH THE NAVY IN THE COMING MONTHS

In discussions with Jay Stefany and his team, ASSA members highlighted critical issues facing the industry that will require active input and participation from our members. A key initiative is an upcoming surface shipbuilding industrial base study, modeled after the SIB-23 study, which addressed submarine industrial base shortfalls. We will also have a direct link to engage with the Supplier Base POC on company-specific and supply chain issues. ASSA members are encouraged to engage with the Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) office to foster better communications between prime contractor shipyards and their subcontractors and suppliers. One of the goals is to identify ways to reduce the financial impact of proposal preparation costs for small manufacturers. In March, ASSA will take to the Hill, where we will address issues like getting the Government to support an expansion of the industrial base by providing funding for those costs that have historically been roadblocks to market entry, including qualification testing and some level of non-recurring engineering. We will continue to advocate for funding support for expanding the submarine industrial base and for similar support for surface shipbuilding. Additionally, we aim to engage with the new maritime industrial base office within the National Security Council and provide recommendations to reduce the cost of CMMC for small businesses. We need the active participation of all our members to accomplish these goals.