BIDDEFORD — The American Boat Builders & Repairers Association’s Dennis Snow President’s Award is awarded annually to an individual or company for their outstanding contribution to the boatbuilding and repair industry. 

This prestigious annual award has been given to industry greats such Bill Yeargin, Frank Herhold, Neil Ross, Dennis Nixon, Jack Brewer, Steve Kitchin, Carl Cramer, Jim Bronstein, Bill Munger, Jonathan Jones, John Hall and Mike Keyworth.

The 2017 ABBRA President’s Award has been awarded to Susan Swanton of Biddeford for her significant and lasting contribution to the boat building and repair industry.

Like these previous recipients, Susan is highly respected throughout the industry, according to ABBRA.

Her clarity of vision, understanding of the boatbuilding and repair industry, and advocacy has her in demand as a speaker at most national industry conferences and as a advisor to marine industry organizations and government agencies. She is tireless in her efforts to promote professionalism and integrity in the boatbuilding and repair industry.

Susan began her career in 1979 at Rumery’s Boatyard in Biddeford and is currently serving as the Executive Director of Maine Marine Trades Association.

She has had an impact in the state of Maine as a co-chair of a $14 million federal grant that turned around the marine industry in the state. She focuses on producing high quality, high demand incumbent worker training and has a national voice through the National Skills Coalition and Business Leaders United. 

Susan has partnered with ABBRA, and other state and national trade associations to provide quality programs to the industry and is a pioneer in workforce development and speaks out regarding important legislative issues that affect boatbuilding and repair businesses.

Founded in 1943, ABBRA is a national marine trade organization that represents, is dedicated to, and seeks to strengthen and encourage professionalism in the boat building, boat repair, and marine service industry.