Local Businesses Struggle with Tariffs, Fuel Costs, and Workforce Challenges

Mattern Construction Co. president cites unpredictable tariffs, rising fuel prices, and labor shortages as key issues impacting growth.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:26pm

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A minimalist studio photograph featuring a selection of construction materials like steel beams, concrete blocks, and power tools arranged elegantly on a clean white background, using dramatic lighting and shadows to symbolize the challenges facing the construction industry.A conceptual still life captures the material and operational challenges facing a local construction company amid economic uncertainty.Baltic Today

The president of Mattern Construction Co. in Baltic, Connecticut told U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney that his business is facing a range of challenges, including on-again, off-again tariffs, higher fuel costs, and difficulties finding qualified workers to expand his team.

Why it matters

Small and medium-sized businesses in Connecticut and across the country are grappling with a mix of economic factors that are making it difficult to plan and grow, from trade policy uncertainty to rising operational costs to labor shortages in key industries.

The details

Mattern Construction Co. president cited the unpredictable nature of tariffs, which can impact the cost of materials, as a major concern. He also pointed to higher fuel prices as a strain on his business's bottom line. Additionally, the executive said it's been challenging to find and hire the skilled workers needed to expand the company.

  • Mattern Construction Co. president spoke with U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney on Monday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Mattern Construction Co.

A construction company based in Baltic, Connecticut.

Joe Courtney

U.S. Representative for Connecticut's 2nd congressional district.

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What they’re saying

“It's difficult to be growing and need to add staff in a market and in an industry where it just seems like there's a shortage of qualified talent to bring out to our team.”

— Mattern Construction Co. president

The takeaway

The challenges facing Mattern Construction Co. reflect the broader economic uncertainty and workforce issues impacting small businesses in Connecticut and across the country, underscoring the need for policies that support local companies and workers.