Congressman Auchincloss Impressed by MIKEL Team and Technology

As a Marine Corps veteran and active major in the reserves, Congressman Jake Auchincloss understands better than most the critical importance of U.S. naval force when it comes to national security.

So, when he was back home in the Fourth District, Rep. Auchincloss was eager to explore MIKEL’s work in supporting the U.S. Navy and Department of Defense with cutting-edge technology and innovative undersea solutions. He was joined by Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan for a tour of our facility, where they met with staff, learned about our capabilities, and discussed the role of the defense sector in the state and regional economies.

 

 

Their takeaway? Across the economy, security, and workforce development, we need companies like MIKEL to keep growing in New England.

“I’m blown away by this technology,” said Mayor Coogan.

“We need to bring a balanced economy to the state, including both warehouse work and high-tech work,” agreed Rep. Auchincloss, underscoring that the strength of the Massachusetts economy—both today and in the future—will rely heavily on precision manufacturing, marine technology, wind power, and other industries that intersect with defense.

To make growth in those sectors possible, the Congressman acknowledged that robust workforce development is essential. The talent pipeline is one of Massachusetts’s greatest assets, yet the Commonwealth is struggling with worker shortages just like other states nationwide.

“The Commonwealth lives and dies by talent,” he said.

To that end, Rep. Auchincloss spoke with MIKEL’s summer interns, asking about their interest in the industry, their experience with the company, and what it will take to keep them in Massachusetts.

Mayor Coogan, too, encouraged the students to set roots locally and be a part of MIKEL’s continued expansion in Fall River. In the coming years, MIKEL hopes to continue to build out our Fall River facility, including adding a higher-security space for classified work and briefings.

“We’re going to fulfill our commitment to grow,” pledged Chief Operating Officer Mike Dyson.

As the tour concluded, Rep. Auchincloss and Mayor Coogan complimented the sophistication and success of the MIKEL operation, which President Kelly Mendell attributed to the collaboration and commitment of the team.

“We really believe in the work we do here and are proud to work on technology that makes a difference for the men and women who serve,” she said. “MIKEL is really the definition of a mission-driven organization in that way.”