For PHD Manufacturing in Columbiana, joining MVMC was a calculated move to tackle a pressing challenge shared by many in the industry, finding skilled workers and expanding recruiting reach.
“We need to get our name out there and find more people,” said Jim Hlebak, executive vice president, PHD Manufacturing. “We joined MVMC to connect with a broader network and tap into the resources that help companies like ours recruit, train and retain manufacturing talent.”
Proudly built in the USA
Founded in 1972, PHD Manufacturing has become a leading U.S. supplier of pipe hangers, pipe supports, and strut accessories with 150 employees.
Serving the commercial and industrial construction markets, the company takes pride in keeping its manufacturing operations domestic.
“We are 90 percent manufacturing with only 10 percent of imports, so we get to call our products domestically made in the USA,” Hlebak said. “Our products are made, melted, slit and coated entirely in the U.S., which sets us apart.”
PHD ships its products from Columbiana to distributors and job sites nationwide.
“When tariffs hit, our customers look to us because we’re not reliant on overseas manufacturing. Being fully domestic is a strategic advantage.”
Occasionally, the company does international business, which has included Canada, UAE and Mexico.
Expanding reach with MVMC
When it comes to workforce challenges, PHD faces similar issues like other manufacturers. Many current employees are nearing retirement, and with a smaller talent pool, there’s an urgent need for skilled, entry-level workers.
“We’ve been in Columbiana for over 45 years, but our immediate area is aging. We’ve been trying to reach out to areas like Boardman, Salem and Canfield to find people,” Hlebak said.
Hlebak attended his first MVMC all-member meeting just weeks after joining and immediately saw the value in collaboration.
“It was nice to see how many manufacturers are actually in the Youngstown area working together to solve some of the same problems.”
Getting connected, staying competitive
PHD is already feeling the impact of MVMC’s resources. Hlebak now has a list of contacts and programs to reference, including WorkAdvance, TechCred, Flying High, Columbiana County Port Authority, Lake to River, Ohio Department of Veterans Services, Mahoning Valley Works and JobsNow.
“It was stuff I didn’t know existed. That guidance gave me the next steps to help bring in more employees.”
Becoming a member means the company reaps the benefits of increased visibility through a careers page on MVMC’s website.
“We’re always looking to fill openings for press roll formers and welders,” he said.
Along with long-term workforce development, PHD also aligns with youth outreach efforts and raising awareness about careers in manufacturing.
“Kids today don’t have to move away or go to college to build a successful career,” Hlebak stressed. “There are real opportunities for them right here in the Valley.”
Being part of MVMC, the company is not just addressing workforce needs, it’s also helping to shape the future of manufacturing in the region.
