- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: May 14, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HON. RYAN K. ZINKE
of montana
in the house of representatives
Mr. ZINKE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Al Schellinger from Flathead Valley, Montana, for a lifetime of leadership and service to the people and communities of Northwest Montana.
Mr. Schellinger, president of Schellinger Construction Company, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Montana Contractors Association in recognition of his contributions to Montana's construction industry, his support for local communities, and his longstanding commitment to Montana workers.
1956 and, over time, grew into one of the most respected construction companies in our great state. After taking over the company in the early 1980s, Al Schellinger helped shape the infrastructure and growth of Montana.
During the decline of the local logging industry, Mr. Schellinger successfully transitioned the company toward road and highway construction, positioning Schellinger Construction for long-term success while continuing to meet the needs of Montana's communities. The expansion of Schellinger Construction not only laid the foundation for a lasting impact across our state but also created jobs and opportunities for hardworking Montanans. Under Al Schellinger's leadership, the company has remained committed to the people behind its success, taking pride in its employees and the strong workforce that continues to carry the company forward today.
Mr. Schellinger's dedication to our Montana communities extends far beyond his own company. Whether supporting 4-H programs, rallying behind local youth initiatives, or sponsoring scholarships through Montana State University, Mr. Schellinger has consistently invested in the next generation. His generosity has also reached those who serve and protect our communities—contributing to local law enforcement and supporting air ambulance services that provide critical, life-saving care to Montanans in some of their most vulnerable moments. Additionally, he remained actively involved with the Montana Contractors Association for decades, serving as MCA President in 1993 and advocating for fair wages and strong opportunities for construction workers across our state.
Mr. Speaker, Al Schellinger's life reflects the values that built Montana and continues to define our state today: hard work, leadership, and commitment to our neighbors. Whether mentoring the next generation or helping build the roads and infrastructure that connect our communities, Al Schellinger has left an undeniable mark on Montana.