Economic uncertainty, shifting trade policy, and rising transportation costs were on the agenda as AWPA members gathered in Washington, D.C., September 23–25 for the 2026 Government Affairs Conference. The meeting combined expert insights, industry discussions, and congressional visits to help members prepare for the year ahead and bring the wire industry’s priorities directly to policymakers.
As AWPA celebrates its 45th anniversary, the conference reinforced an important part of the association’s mission: keeping members informed while ensuring the wire industry has a voice in Washington.
Preparing for 2027 and Beyond
Tara Bayke of ITR Economics offered a forward-looking assessment of the economy and its implications for wire producers. Her presentation outlined expectations for continued economic growth, with a slower pace in 2027 and uneven conditions across manufacturing and construction markets.
For members, her message centered on practical preparation: protect margins, maintain sourcing and pricing flexibility, and invest in productivity. Persistent cost pressures and a limited supply of skilled workers also make retention, cross-training, and succession planning important parts of a company’s long-term strategy.
Bayke encouraged companies to understand how their own markets align with broader economic trends and to test revenue, hiring, and investment plans against the possibility of slower demand.
Understanding the Freight Market
Emily Clayton, Economist at the American Trucking Associations, examined the forces shaping freight demand, trucking capacity, and transportation costs.
Her presentation highlighted an uneven economy, with technology investment and data center construction providing areas of strength while other freight-generating sectors face softer conditions. At the same time, carrier exits, higher operating costs, and increased enforcement are reducing trucking capacity.
For manufacturers, these trends point to an important planning consideration: modest freight demand does not necessarily mean lower shipping costs. Clayton’s analysis underscored the need to keep transportation capacity and pricing on the radar as companies develop their budgets and supply chain plans.
Examining Trade Policy and Enforcement
The program also featured Daniel Matthews, Director for Industrial Goods at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, for a session on the President’s America First trade agenda. Matthews spoke with attendees and answered questions about tariffs and negotiations with key U.S. trading partners, including Canada and Mexico.
Scott Paul, President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing, explored areas of agreement on trade policy and the future of domestic manufacturing. His presentation examined the role of trade enforcement in supporting U.S. manufacturing and the ongoing policy debate surrounding America’s trade laws.
Paul connected trade policy to the jobs, investment, and communities supported by domestic manufacturing and discussed policy proposals aimed at strengthening U.S. trade enforcement.
Taking the Industry’s Priorities to Capitol Hill
Congressional visits were a central part of the conference, giving members an opportunity to connect policy discussions with the day-to-day realities of producing wire and wire products. AWPA members participated in more than 60 congressional visits this year, and our Government Relations team is already conducting follow-up with offices.
These conversations help put a local face on national issues. Members bring firsthand knowledge of their facilities, employees, customers, and investment decisions — perspectives that help congressional offices understand how federal policy affects manufacturing in their states and districts.
AWPA’s advocacy doesn’t end when the conference does. If your company would like assistance inviting a member of Congress to tour your facility, contact AWPA and our Government Relations team can help you get started.
Throughout the meeting, committee sessions, receptions, and conversations among colleagues offered additional opportunities to exchange ideas and strengthen industry relationships.
Thank you to our speakers, sponsors, Kelley Drye, and every member who participated. Your engagement helps AWPA build lasting relationships in Washington and keep the needs of the wire industry before policymakers.
