Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy dropped by this year’s Celebration of Construction on the National Mall to connect with equipment manufacturers and learn more about the industry’s relentless commitment to technological innovation that boosts productivity, improves efficiency, saves fuel, and reduces cost.
Touring the event alongside Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, the Secretary got an up-close look at how precision technology – from an ultrasonic robotic total station to a next generation large hydraulic excavator – improves efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration across all phases of an infrastructure project, from planning to execution.
Following the tour, Secretary Duffy also took time to speak with AEM Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations Kip Eideberg in front of AEM’s Manufacturing Express. The two discussed the Trump administration’s efforts to attract more talent to the trades, reduce the regulatory burden on manufacturers, and build more.
On strengthening America’s manufacturing workforce, the Secretary pointed to the need for more students to consider careers in the skilled trades.
"There are a lot of great careers in America where you don't need a four-year degree,” said Secretary Duffy. “You can learn how to be an operator, how to manufacture, and how to be an air traffic controller in a relatively short time. And then you start making a lot of great money at a young age and you aren't saddled with a couple hundred thousand dollars' worth of debt."
The Secretary highlighted the ways the Trump Administration is exploring reducing the regulatory burden on infrastructure projects.
“I'd like to see more output,” said Secretary Duffy. “More roads, more bridges, more rail. How can we streamline this and put more money into turning dirt? How can we streamline the rules and regulations that impede manufacturing and the creation of jobs, which would drive down the cost of the products we produce.”
The two also discussed how a timely reauthorization of the nation’s surface transportation programs is vital to national and economic security, and the urgent need to reduce regulations and cut “red tape” to facilitate infrastructure development and economic growth. Eideberg emphasized that regulatory relief will not only benefit equipment manufacturers but also help create jobs and stimulate economic growth. “We share the Secretary’s belief that modernizing regulations will enable our industry to thrive, foster investment, and contribute to a more prosperous economy,” added Eideberg.
Watch the full conversation below:
