Navigating Success: Safe Boats International Leads Kitsap Manufacturing

The Impact of Employee Ownership on Manufacturing Culture

As Kitsap County celebrates National Manufacturing Month, it's essential to recognize local industry leaders, such as SAFE Boats International, a world-renowned manufacturer of swiftwater patrol boats. Based in Bremerton, SAFE Boats has developed a global reputation for quality and performance. Richard Schwarz, CEO of SAFE Boats, says, “We started inventing custom designs and supporting technology like our industry-leading and patented foam collar for impact and floatation. We created sound-dampening hull designs to reduce acoustics and noise pollution in the cabin. We optimized our V-shaped hull and deadrise combination to allow our patrol boat models to slice through rough water with minimal impact.”

One unique aspect of the company is its employee-owned model, which meaningfully shapes the workplace culture.

Schwarz shares that although the company transitioned to employee ownership a year and a half ago, the cultural impact wasn't as dramatic as expected. "Our team members have always had a mission focus," he explains. "We build boats for law enforcement, first responders, and militaries worldwide, so there's a strong sense of purpose ingrained in what we do." While employee ownership has fostered a greater sense of voice and engagement among workers, Schwarz emphasizes that the pride in their product has always been present, given the life-saving missions these boats support.

Employee ownership, however, has contributed to a more energized atmosphere on the production floor. Team members are now even more involved in submitting suggestions for improvement, contributing to a collaborative environment that drives innovation and productivity.
 

Training and Innovation: Keeping SAFE Boats at the Forefront

SAFE Boats International has long been known for its commitment to quality and innovation. As a leader in the highly specialized field of swift water patrol boats, the company faces the constant challenge of staying at the cutting edge of technology and craftsmanship to meet domestic and international demand.

"We are always listening to our customers and adapting to their needs," says Schwarz. This customer-centric approach allows SAFE Boats to remain competitive by responding to technological advancements through improved electronics or propulsion systems.

One of the ways SAFE Boats ensures its workforce stays ahead of the curve is by offering ample training opportunities. The company has recently secured a workforce grant to provide training across the board—from production workers like welders and integrators to engineering and quality teams. This investment in people helps the company maintain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market while aligning with employee ownership values. "We now have more resources to reinvest in our team," says Schwarz, ensuring that SAFE Boats continues to build the best products with the best-trained workforce.

Sustained Growth in a Challenging Market

The manufacturing sector in the U.S. has faced numerous challenges in recent years, mainly due to disruptions in the global supply chain. Despite these hurdles, SAFE Boats International has not only survived but thrived. According to Schwarz, the company's unwavering focus on quality and performance has set it apart. "We are not the least expensive option on the market, but our customers demand the best—because it can be a matter of life and death," he states.

SAFE Boats' commitment to delivering superior products has enabled it to grow domestically and internationally. The company has a strong order book and a robust pipeline of opportunities, positioning it for continued success. Employee ownership, says Schwarz, has only strengthened this growth. "We’ve married that sense of purpose and mission we’ve always had for our customers with opportunities for our team members. Our dedication to quality has earned us a reputation for building the safest, toughest, and most confident-handling boats around the Sound.”

As Kitsap County celebrates National Manufacturing Month, SAFE Boats International exemplifies the power of innovation, commitment to quality, and workforce investment—values essential to the company's success and the strength of the entire manufacturing sector in Kitsap.

If you're a manufacturer or business leader in Kitsap County, join the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance to support our local industries. Learn more about how KEDA can help you grow, innovate, and invest in your workforce.  Learn more about KEDA's 5-year Strategic Plan, explore resources, and connect with industry leaders, and become part of Kitsap’s thriving manufacturing community. Together, we can continue to create a thriving and sustainable economy for future generations. Contact us today to get involved.