News Summary
Siblings Kelly and Kiffin Ward have established Ward’s Manufacturing LLC in Rhode Island to promote local job creation and American manufacturing. The company focuses on metal fabrication services, including laser cutting and part design consulting, addressing the increasing demand for domestic production amid global supply chain challenges. With plans to expand their workforce, they aim to support various industries while prioritizing sustainability and modern technology.
Warren, Rhode Island – Siblings Kelly and Kiffin Ward have launched Ward’s Manufacturing LLC in early 2024, aiming to revive American metal fabrication and foster local job creation. The business initially started with six employees and plans to hire two additional staff members shortly, exemplifying its commitment to building a sustainable workforce in the community.
As outsourcing of metal fabrication to overseas markets has been a longstanding trend, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted global supply chains, renewing interest in domestic manufacturing. In this context, Ward’s Manufacturing was established to address the growing need for American-made products. The company focuses on several specialties, including fiber laser cutting, press brake bending, metal engraving, and part design consulting services.
Specialization and Services
Ward’s Manufacturing utilizes metal sheets, offering cutting and bending services that can be customized according to customer specifications. The company serves a variety of industries, with construction and marine sectors prominently included. With a reported shortage in the U.S. domestic metal fabrication market, the company is stepping in to fill those gaps.
Market Dynamics
Many existing domestic metal fabrication shops are typically multigenerational and may not utilize the latest technology, often resulting in backorders and inefficiencies. Ward’s Manufacturing aims to differentiate itself by offering small-scale prototype work and custom orders, leveraging Kiffin Ward’s expertise in engineering to fulfill various requirements.
Challenges and Opportunities
As Ward’s Manufacturing embarks on its journey, it faces several challenges, such as establishing a local customer base and increasing visibility in a complex marketplace. Nevertheless, the company has already attracted clients from across the nation, underscoring its potential in the industry.
Beyond just fabrication, Ward’s Manufacturing is equipped to work with various metals including mild carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and copper, showcasing its flexibility to accommodate special metal requests. The recognition of the need for domestic metal fabrication is evolving, particularly as outsourcing becomes increasingly costlier and riskier due to factors like geopolitical tensions and shipping complications.
Looking Ahead
As the demand for domestic metal fabrication continues to rise, Ward’s Manufacturing realistically positions itself at the forefront of this vital sector. With the founding of this new enterprise, the Ward siblings not only aim to serve immediate customer needs but also contribute significantly to the sustainability of local economies and job markets in Rhode Island.
This business venture symbolizes a commitment to promoting American-made products while addressing contemporary manufacturing challenges. The emphasis on local job creation and the adoption of modern technology are pivotal components of Ward’s Manufacturing’s mission, ensuring its resilience in a fluctuating economy.
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Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
