MIDDLETOWN, Iowa -- Local southeast Iowa chambers of commerce members toured the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant mid-March for a closer look into ammunition production facilities.
Chamber of commerce members in attendance were: Dennis Hinkle (Burlington); Angela Shipley (Mount Pleasant); Sarah Cantrell, Nancy Snaadt, Craig Abolt, and Scott Snider (Fort Madison); April Girad, Katie O' Brien, and Tim Peevler (Keokuk); Arlo Walljasper and Jens Lee (New London).
The tour began with a command brief that highlighting the plant's mission, capabilities, electrical infrastructure, demolition facilities, and IAAAP's safety and environmental program from Lt. Col. Tommie Hewitt.
"It was an honor to host the local chambers of commerce. They were given the opportunity to see the inner workings of the plant and meet plant employees during their informative tour. It was also a great opportunity for IAAAP to sell its story to the local community. We will continue to host visits to ensure we communicate our goals and to foster better relationships with the community," said Hewitt.
Tom Rudy, chief operating officer for American Ordnance briefed them on the structure of the business units: indirect, direct, warheads and special projects, and production facilities for propelling charges for mortars.
Tammy Dean, business development manager for American Ordnance gave an overall briefing on the U.S. Army Retooling and Manufacturing Support Program, ARMS, which American Ordnance coordinates with the Army including renovation, maintenance and demilitarization of ammunition devices.
Dean explained that American Ordnance looks to attract companies who need affordable storage and 24-hour security.
"Currently American Ordnance is looking for individuals who have a background in roof repairs, road repairs, and metal fabricators," Dean said. Iowa Army Ammunition Plant government and contractor personnel gave local chamber of commerce visitors a walk through tour of the 40 Pound Cratering Charge, the 120 mm ammunition, and their last stop they viewed the special projects and warheads production line.
While touring IAAAP, the chamber of commerce visitors learned about the demilitarization capabilities and available storage areas for lease at the plant.
"I gained greater understanding of the energy usage related to the processes. The tour dispelled some of the mystery and misconceptions about what goes on at Iowa Army Ammunition Plant," said Nancy Snaadt a member of the Fort Madison Chamber of Commerce.
To apply for future job openings, the public is encouraged to go to the suppliers section on www.alloc.biz/
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