Stephen Barndollar is a seasoned professional in the seafood processing industry, with a notable tenure at Seatrade International during the 1990s. His career is marked by his involvement with the company's strategic shift in response to the evolving landscape of the fishing industry. Barndollar's expertise lies in navigating the complexities of seafood processing, particularly with underutilized species such as dogfish and monkfish. His experience extends to managing the repercussions of quota reductions, which significantly impacted the business operations at Seatrade International. In the face of such challenges, Barndollar played a pivotal role in steering the company towards the processing of scallops, a move that was both adaptive and strategic. His leadership was also crucial in addressing workforce dynamics, especially in the context of employee retention and the loss of skilled labor. Barndollar's commitment to the industry is further underscored by his emphasis on the importance of certifications, which are vital for maintaining the company's competitiveness in the export market. His career reflects a deep understanding of the intricacies of sustainable fishing practices and the need for continuous adaptation within the seafood processing sector.

Scope and Content Note
The interview with Stephen Barndollar provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and transitions experienced by Seatrade International in the 1990s, with a focus on the seafood processing industry. Barndollar delves into the company's strategic shift from processing underutilized fish species to concentrating on scallops, a change prompted by the imposition of quota reductions. He candidly discusses the operational hurdles faced during this transition, including the difficulty of retaining skilled workers and the impact of losing employees. The conversation also explores the broader context of the fishing industry in New England, touching upon the future prospects and the influence of external factors such as fuel costs, sustainability concerns, and the competitive pressures from overseas fisheries. Barndollar emphasizes the significance of certifications for the export market, highlighting their role in ensuring the company's adherence to quality and sustainability standards. The interview also addresses the importance of promoting local fisheries to consumers, a strategy that is seen as vital for the survival and growth of the industry in the region. Through Barndollar's insights, the interview sheds light on the adaptive measures taken by Seatrade International to maintain its market position and its commitment to sustainable fishing practices amidst a changing industry landscape.