By Katy Mumaw
Director of Marketing, Compco
COLUMBIANA, Ohio – As Compco reflects on a year defined by both challenges and triumphs, 2024 stands out as a testament to the power of resilience and innovation. From navigating inflation to addressing workforce shortages, the year brought hurdles that compelled us to adapt and ultimately thrive.
Inflation was a persistent challenge, impacting raw materials, operational costs and pricing strategies.
Workforce shortages also required creative solutions. We launched targeted training initiatives to upskill current employees and partnered with local training programs to build a robust talent pipeline. These efforts addressed immediate workforce needs while laying a foundation for sustained growth.
Amid the challenges, 2024 brought significant achievements. One standout was the successful installation of a state-of-the-art 2,500-ton hydraulic press, bolstering operational efficiency and serving as a contingency for our existing large presses.
Compco was also honored to receive the 2024 Better Business Bureau Award for Marketplace Trust. This accolade not only boosted team morale but also reinforced our reputation as a trusted leader in the industry.
Looking ahead to 2025, Compco is embracing the trends shaping our industry. Sustainability remains a key priority, with plans to expand and diversify product offerings. We are committed to technological innovation with ongoing investments in automation and AI-driven systems to enhance efficiency, precision and quality.
Recognizing that our people are our greatest asset, Compco will continue to make employee engagement strategies to foster a motivated and empowered workforce a priority.
Compco’s dedication to community impact is at the heart of our mission. In 2024, we partnered with the United Way of Northern Columbiana County to sustain the Unlocking Potential Mentor Program, providing guidance and support to underprivileged youth in Salem and East Palestine.
Additionally, we hosted educational tours for initiatives such as Junior Leadership Columbiana County, Manufacturing Our Future, and Manufacturing Camp, inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.
One of our most rewarding efforts was a collaboration with Project Outrun, an organization that creates custom shoes for youth battling cancer. Starting with a fundraising game at our holiday party, Compco matched (plus some) the funds raised, which allowed Project Outrun to eliminate its waiting list.
Compco, founded in 1952, specializes in deep-draw metal stamping and tank heads. The company employs more than 100.