In an era when U.S. manufacturers face historic workforce shortages and an urgent need to inspire young talent, AFS member Humtown (Columbiana, Ohio) says it has transformed its factory floor into a hands-on learning lab, where students see, touch, and experience the possibilities of modern manufacturing. Over the past three years, more than 1,000 students across Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania have benefited from hands-on manufacturing experiences at the company––both through on-site, student-led tours and in-school career exploration programs.

As a result of the program, Humtown was recently honored with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) 2025 Manufacturing Leadership Award in the Collaborative Ecosystems category—its second award in two years. The Manufacturing Leadership Awards recognize excellence and innovation across the industry. 

“When we see young adults as emerging industrial athletes, blending classroom learning and real-world experience, they begin to discover what truly sparks their interest, and just as importantly, what doesn’t,” said Mark Lamoncha, president of Humtown.