machines , product checks , and delivery logistics . According to Bill , it ’ s been a challenging few years for the company as it , like many throughout a host of industries , has sought to overcome recent supply chain disruption . But perhaps the greatest difficulty has been managing a severe shortage of available labor , which is currently impacting key sectors across the US .

“ We ’ ve been in business for more than 130 years , and some of our employees have been with us for three or four decades ,” Bill reflects . “ That gives us a wealth of

knowledge , but when someone decides it ’ s time to leave , it ’ s difficult to replace them . When it comes to new hires , we ’ re not opposed to candidates without a background in manufacturing , and to help them , we ’ ve developed a training program that gives them the tools they need to be successful . Upon joining Channellock , new employees each receive a mentor in the shape of a veteran within the company who is able to share their knowledge about our products and operations , and answer any questions that the trainee might have . We want our people to be properly trained , and to feel comfortable in all aspects .

“ With labor in short supply , we ’ re fortunate to have a workforce that ’ s crosstrained in a number of different machine functions ,” he continues . “ We ’ ve been able to alleviate the worst of the pressure by moving people around different machines according to demand in order to get product through .” encompasses not only a number of variations on those original pliers ,

Channellock

but also screwdrivers , wrenches , and specialty tools and tool sets . Now , Bill is focused on improving efficiency throughout the company ’ s machining operations to minimize unit costs and deliver greater value for Channellock ’ s customers .

“ We ’ re always looking at ways of making our products faster and more safely ,” Bill confirms . “ Our V . P . of Operations ,

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