Throughout October, celebrating Manufacturing Month, IMC partnered with the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce to host a series of five manufacturing tours that brought together state and local elected officials, their staff, economic development members, and the manufacturing community for an inside look at regional manufacturing. The tours provided participants with insight into the economic impact of Central Pennsylvania manufacturers.
During this manufacturing tour series, attendees had a firsthand look at the products, technologies, and skilled workforce in local manufacturing while highlighting the impact local manufacturers have on national and global supply chains.
The series began at Lewis Lumber Products, where participants explored the company’s custom millwork and woodworking operations. The tours continued at Ralph S. Alberts Co., Inc., where attendees learned how the company’s fiberglass and foam products support a variety of industries, including amusement, medical, and defense applications. Many of their products can be found in attractions across the country at local and major theme parks.
At Chance Aluminum, we saw how aluminum materials produced in Williamsport are used in everyday products such as candy wrappers, yogurt lids, condiment seals, as well as aerospace applications.
The fourth tour featured PMF Industries, Inc., a manufacturer with more than 60 years of experience producing precision metal components for the aerospace, defense, energy, medical, and food industries.
The series concluded at Lycoming Engines, where participants explored the company’s rich history through its museum before touring the manufacturing floor and observing aircraft engine production from start to finish.
The tours demonstrated the diversity and innovation present within Central Pennsylvania’s manufacturing sector. From construction and custom woodworking to aerospace materials, advanced composites, precision metal forming, and aviation, these manufacturers showcased the wide range of products made locally and their impact outside of Central Pennsylvania.
“Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of Central Pennsylvania’s economy, and these tours provided a unique opportunity for participants to see firsthand the innovation, technology, and talent that exist within our region,” said IMC President, Dennis Gilbert. “We are grateful to each host manufacturer for opening their doors and sharing their stories.”
IMC thanks Lewis Lumber Products, Ralph S. Alberts Co., Inc., Chance Aluminum, PMF Industries, Inc., and Lycoming Engines, as well as the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce, for their partnership in making the Manufacturing Month tour series a success.
