On Oct. 2, the city proclaimed it Manufacturing Day. Several manufacturing companies opened their doors to show the public, and the media, the stuff they are making. While many in the media (and the public) ignored the festivities, those who attended various events learned a lot about the future of small manufacturers, and the important role they play in economic development, especially on the east side.
Officials noted that almost 30 percent of Indiana’s economic activity in 2014 was in manufacturing, the highest percentage of any state in the country. Manufacturers large and small in Indiana employ almost a half million people, and manufacturing employment was growing fast in the state. Just recently Rolls Royce announced plans to modernize its operations in Indianapolis, and other companies have announced expansions that will add more jobs in Indiana.
EmployIndy, the county’s workforce development board, and Riley Area Development Corporation, were on hand at the Circle City Industrial Complex (CCIC) to showcase companies along the Mass Ave. Brookside Corridor. In the former Schweitzer Building, small manufacturers are making themselves at home, creating a fascinating collaboration that is sure to grow in the coming years.
Tomlinson Manufacturing, for example, makes stuff (it says so on their Web site). Founder Tommy Tomlinson started the company in 1977, after inventing a wire caddy, a specialty metal bender, and several other items for a variety of industries. For years, they’ve supplied exhaust system hangers, smokestacks for big rigs, and trailer accessories. Located in Cloverdale, Tomlinson moved operations to the CCIC in August, added state-of-the-art equipment, and is looking to add to its small workforce. The company has expanded significantly, taking on custom jobs and creating unique products. They are now designing and building computer labs for schools, sports equipment storage solutions, heavy duty custom rolling tables for offices, and a weight-lifting machine. Being a small manufacturer means they are more versatile and willing to experiment to find the right solutions for clients.
BAMCO has also taken up residence in CCIC. BAMCO’s work ranges from the practical to the wildly artistic. BAMCO has been involved in high-profile projects including the airport parking garage installation “breath” (designed by Greg Hull), the Jacks Mural north of the Central Library (designed by Will Schlough), and furniture projects for popular restaurants such as the Ball & Biscuit and Thunderbird. They are also heavily involved in the up-and-coming Ruckus makerspace which will also be in the CCIC.
The industrial shared spaces allow for collaboration and resource sharing, plus opportunities to diversify products and bring in new ideas, according to leaders. The new makers of stuff aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.
