Lawrence Mercer Manufacturers Coalition Welcomes New Members
MERCER, Pa. — The Lawrence Mercer Manufacturers Coalition (LMMC) has expanded its membership, adding Graham Stamping, Container Services, and Lawrence County School-to-Work to its ranks. The coalition, which promotes career development and training for the region’s manufacturing workforce, now includes 15 manufacturers and related organizations.
Graham Stamping, a third-generation family-owned business based in Hermitage, has been a key player in progressive stamping for 75 years, serving automotive, rail, and commercial transportation sectors. The company brings extensive industry expertise and a strong community commitment to LMMC.
“We joined LMMC to get more involved in the manufacturing space and diversify our business,” said David MacHarg III, president of Graham Stamping. “There’s a significant opportunity to reshape the perception of manufacturing careers, and we want to be part of that effort.”
Container Services, also known as CSI Bottles, joined the coalition with a specialty in custom blow-molded food-grade plastic containers. Operating in New Castle since 2018, CSI Bottles is recognized for its “honey bear” bottles and has quickly become a standout in local manufacturing.
“Joining LMMC aligns perfectly with our goals to support workforce development in both Lawrence and Mercer counties,” said Brian Richards, plant manager at CSI Bottles. “Community is everything, and we’re excited to contribute to the region’s growth.”
Lawrence County School-to-Work connects industries with education to raise career awareness among middle and high school students, offering programs like Manufacturing Week and the Business and Industry Fair. The organization’s involvement with LMMC reinforces the coalition’s efforts to foster a skilled workforce pipeline in Lawrence and Mercer counties.
“Businesses are just as important to us as the schools, and organizations like LMMC help connect us to local manufacturers who support our mission,” said Lynda Jaworski-Rapone, executive director, Lawrence County School-To-Work.
Founded in 2023 by regional manufacturers including Berner International, Blair Strip Steel Company, ELLWOOD, G.W. Becker, Hall Industries, and Wheatland Steel Processing, LMMC collaborates with industry, education, and community stakeholders to support and grow local manufacturing through workforce development and retention programs.
Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
