SYRACUSE - Congressman Mark Souder visited Rinker Boat Co., Syracuse, Monday to learn about the company's operations.
Jeff Newport, vice president of operations for the company, gave Souder a tour of the company's facilities.
Newport said Souder's office called the company and requested a tour of the facility. Souder's representatives Tracy Jackson and Allison McSherry also toured the facility.
Rinker Boat Co., at 300 W. Chicago St., Syracuse, has been manufacturing boats since 1945, Newport said.
Souder toured the company and met with its employees to become more educated about the boating industry in case a bill is approved that could effect the industry.
Souder, who is a member of the boating caucus, said he tries to visit businesses in his district to meet employees and learn about operations.
"It is important for members of Congress to know what is going on in the manufacturing industry in their district," Souder said.
He said many people think of Kosciusko County as an orthopedic capital, but said Rinker Boat Co. is a home-grown company that is an important part of the district.
The company has 415 employees, and many of the employees are boaters, Newport said.
The company has three assembly buildings where boats such as bowriders, deck boats and sportboats are made.
Employees create and install upholstery and cabinets in the boats.
The company has 115 dealers in the United States and more than 30 dealers worldwide from Spain, France, England and Ireland.
"Customers' expectations are increasing, and family time is limited, so we want to make sure our boats provide a great experience for them," Newport said.
Newport said the company builds boats for fishing and tubing.
