HII Featured in National Photo Series Showcasing Skilled Manufacturers

Harper Industries is proud to announce its participation in the latest installment of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ (AEM’s) acclaimed Through the Lens photo series, which shines a spotlight on the skilled men and women powering America’s equipment manufacturing industry.

Documentary photographer Brad Romano visited Harper’s facility this spring as part of his journey across the Southwest, capturing striking images of employees in action. The photos from HII are part of a larger series featuring six manufacturing facilities, including Landoll (Beloit, KS), Harper (Harper, KS), Great Plains (Salina, KS), Ditch Witch (Perry, OK), McElroy (Tulsa, OK), and Versalift (Waco, TX).

“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.”

Photos from Through the Lens will be displayed in Washington, D.C.’s historic Union Station, appearing on digital directories throughout the busy transit hub. The campaign is designed to remind lawmakers and the public of the 2.3 million equipment manufacturing jobs that already power the U.S. economy, supporting communities and creating opportunities.

“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.”

Participation in Through the Lens underscores Harper Industries’ role in creating high-skilled, family-sustaining jobs, preserving traditional craftsmanship, and inspiring new generations to pursue careers in manufacturing and the skilled trades.

The photos will also be shared throughout the year via AEM’s I Make America grassroots advocacy program, social media channels, and other campaigns for years to come.

The full series can be viewed here. Photos should be attributed to Brad Romano for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers.