Mark Romer, president of James River Equipment

“For four decades, the company I work with has provided equipment to help build Virginia’s infrastructure and lay the groundwork for its industries. We’re proud of the contribution we’ve made to Virginia’s economy, as well as the opportunities we’ve helped create for the dedicated and skilled workers who roll up their sleeves and get jobs done.

Sadly, opportunities for our industry and the workforce that maintains and operates our equipment have diminished in recent years. Construction has lagged. Manufacturing and mining have contracted. Investments in new infrastructure have declined. Too often, and in too many communities, jobs and economic opportunity have disappeared as a result.