For 250 years, American manufacturing has been a source of strength, opportunity and pride.
Manufacturers have helped drive innovation, create opportunity and build the products that power our economy and support our communities.
As our nation begins celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, PMA is proud to highlight a few member companies carrying that tradition forward. These member manufacturers work showcase the ingenuity, skill and determination that continue to define American manufacturing.
Dayton Rogers Manufacturing Co.
PMA Member Since 1969
For nearly a century, Dayton Rogers Manufacturing Co. has been shaping American manufacturing through precision metal forming, fabrication, and innovation. Headquartered in Minneapolis with operations in Ohio, South Carolina, and Texas, the company employs more than 150 people dedicated to bringing customers’ ideas to life.
Founded in 1929 by Dayton A. Rogers, the company helped pioneer the short run stamping process, which changed the landscape of the industry and helped the company evolve from a single garage operation into a national supplier.
“I’ve always been drawn to the tangible nature of the work; taking a raw piece of metal and transforming it into a component that powers an airplane or a medical decide that helps save lives. It’s incredibly rewarding,” says CEO Stephanie Lowry.
Dayton Rogers supports local strong economies by creating stable, high-quality careers and investing in the communities where its employees live and work.
“Every facility we operate is a heartbeat for its local economy; when manufacturing thrives, the grocery stores, schools, and small businesses in our region thrive alongside us,” Lowry adds.
Lockers Manufacturing
PMA Member Since 2023
For more than a decade, Lockers Manufacturing has been a proud American-made manufacturer dedicated to building high-quality locker, storage, and security solutions. With operations in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas, they employ a team of more than 150 employees.
The company has grown rapidly by investing in its people, technology, and facilities. Today, they proudly serve Fortune 500 companies, military organizations, first responders, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, athletic programs, and industrial customers.
“Manufacturing creates opportunities. It allows companies to offer competitive wages, invest in employee growth, and promote from within,” shares CEO Keith Dunham. “At Lockers Manufacturing, we strive to create careers—not just jobs. Watching employees advance, buy homes, support families, and built their futures has shown me firsthand how this industry positively impacts both individuals and entire communities.”
Through internships, partnerships with schools, and programs like financial literacy training, the company is helping shape the next generation of manufacturers.
“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, manufacturing continues to drive innovation, economic strength, and opportunity,” Keith adds.
Almetals, Inc.
PMA Member Since 2000
Since 1984, Almetals, Inc. has been helping power American manufacturing from its roots in Michigan. As a specialty metals distributor and processor, the company supplies precision-processed aluminum, brass, copper, and stainless steel to a wide range of industries across the country.
What began as a single slitting line serving the automotive industry has evolved into an operation capable of processing more than 200,000,000 pounds of metal annually—supporting sectors from aerospace to renewable energy.
“Manufacturing helped build America,” says Owner and CEO Jim Chain. “For 250 years, manufacturers have created jobs, driven innovation, and strengthened communities. I believe manufacturing will be just as important to America’s future as it has been to its past.”
With a team of about 25 employees, Almetals demonstrates how even smaller manufacturers play an outsized role in the economy – supporting a broader network of suppliers, customers, and partners.
That impact extends into the community as well. Almetals supports local schools, first responders, and organizations like the American Red Cross, Special Olympics, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—reinforcing its belief that strong businesses help build strong communities.
“What excites me most is that manufacturing continues to evolve,” Chain adds. “After more than 40 years in the business, we are still learning, adapting, and finding new ways to serve our customers. The challenges change, but that’s part of what makes this industry so rewarding.”
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, companies like Almetals continue to demonstrate the resilience, adaptability, and innovation that define American manufacturing’s past, present, and future.
Clips & Clamps Industries
PMA Member Since 1986
For more than 70 years, Clips & Clamps Industries has been advancing American manufacturing from its home just 20 miles outside of Detroit in Plymouth, Michigan. As a family-owned, majority-woman-owned company in its third generation of leadership, CCI continues to invest in innovation while staying rooted in its people-first values.
“Manufacturing is one of just a few key industries that truly adds value to the economy,” says President Jeff Aznavorian. “It is essential for economic stability and growth as well as national security and prosperity.”
CCI’s impact extends well beyond the shop floor. Through three apprenticeship programs, along with internships and scholarships, the company is committed to helping the next generation of skilled manufacturers.
With a culture built on continuous learning and community investment, CCI reflects on what makes American manufacturing strong: innovation, resilience, and opportunity.
“As we look to the future, the most important skill is being a forever learner,” Aznavorian adds. “Manufacturing drives innovation like no other industry. There is always something to learn and improve.”
