AEM Releases 3rd Edition of ‘Through the Lens’ Photo Series
AEM on July 17 unveiled the third installment of its acclaimed “Through the Lens” photo series. Captured by documentary photographer Brad Romano, the latest edition spotlights the men and women on the frontlines of America’s equipment manufacturing industry.
Romano traveled across the Southwest, photographing workers at six equipment manufacturing facilities: Landoll (Marysville, KS), Harper Industries (Harper, KS), Great Plains Manufacturing (Salina, KS), Ditch Witch (Perry, OK), McElroy Manufacturing (Tulsa, OK), and Versalift (Waco, TX). The result is a powerful tribute to the 2.3 million Americans who make the equipment that builds, powers, and feeds the world. Starting next week, the photos will be on display at Washington, D.C.’s historic Union Station, reminding the more than 12,000 daily travelers of the grit, determination, and can-do spirit of the U.S. equipment manufacturing industry.
“Every three years, this project captures the enduring spirit of America’s equipment manufacturers,” said Kip Eideberg, AEM’s senior vice president of government and industry relations. “These are the welders, machinists, assemblers, and technicians, who represent the best of American manufacturing. As policymakers debate how to ‘bring jobs back to America,’ we want to remind them that 2.3 million of those jobs are already here, and they are the backbone of small towns and communities across our great country.”
The Through the Lens series is part of AEM’s broader efforts to spotlight an industry that is often ignored by national media and highlight the vital role it plays in small towns and communities across the country. This year’s campaign comes at a critical moment, as lawmakers in Washington debate how to restore and revive America’s manufacturing roots.
“AEM is an invaluable resource for equipment manufacturers,” said McElroy Manufacturing President and CEO Chip McElroy. “We were thrilled to have the opportunity to share the work that takes place every day in our facilities and showcase the hard work and talent that goes into the manufacturing process.”
“Ditch Witch is honored to stand with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers and support their advocacy on behalf of our industry,” said Kevin Smith, Ditch Witch General Manager. “This photo series is a wonderful way to highlight the dedicated individuals behind the world-class underground construction equipment we produce. Since 1949, the hardworking men and women at our Perry, Oklahoma facility have played a vital role in American manufacturing, building equipment that’s trusted around the globe. Our team’s commitment and craftsmanship have helped shape the nation’s infrastructure, and we remain committed to sharing our story and championing policies that strengthen U.S. manufacturing.”
“Great Plains Manufacturing is proud to be part of AEM’s ‘Through the Lens’ photo series showcasing the talented people and innovative spirit that drive our industry forward,” said Chris Montgomery, Great Plains Manufacturing Director of Construction Equipment. “Every piece of equipment we build reflects the dedication and skill of our employees, and this project is a powerful way to share their stories and highlight the essential role manufacturing plays in our communities.”
“It is great to see projects like this as they highlight the importance of American manufacturing,” said Joel Holk, Versalift COO of NA Operations. “Having spent the entirety of my career in American industrial manufacturing, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside the very proud men and women who manufacture the great products we use every day. We need projects like this one to showcase the great people already working in manufacturing but also show future generations the opportunities that exist in the manufacturing space. Manufacturing is a foundational piece of our economy and the American way. Anything we can do to strengthen the foundation and increase longevity is a worthwhile venture for all of us.”
“We’re proud to be featured in the ‘Behind the Lens’ series and grateful for the opportunity to spotlight the people behind our products,” said Luke Thornton, Harper Industries’ Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Customer Relations. “At Harper Industries, we don’t just build great products; we build with purpose, driven by self-starters who lead by serving.”
“Landoll is proud of our homegrown manufacturing facility here in Kansas, the Heart of the USA,” said Paula Landoll-Smith, Landoll Marketing Manager. “We’re honored to be a part of this series to show off the hardworking people behind our quality products sold worldwide. Their attention to detail and pride are apparent in their craftsmanship. Manufacturing is an art, and this project represents well.”
By putting faces to the industry, Through the Lens underscores how the equipment manufacturing industry is creating new, high-skilled jobs while preserving traditional craftsmanship. The project also seeks to spotlight family-sustaining careers in rural America and inspire more people to pursue paths in the skilled trades.
In addition to the Union Station advertisements, photos from the series will be amplified throughout the year via AEM’s I Make America grassroots advocacy campaign, on social media platforms, and through a dedicated Media Resources webpage for reporters and industry stakeholders.
The full series can be viewed here.
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