Manufacturing in Hancock County: Shaping the Future of Modern Industry

Manufacturing has seen a resurgence in the past several years, making a strong comeback across the US, and Hancock County is an active participant in this revitalization. The outdated image of manufacturing as a dull, dirty, and dangerous job has been replaced by one of innovation, where cutting-edge technology meets creativity and problem-solving.

In Hancock County, local manufacturers use the latest tools and raw materials to produce goods that drive industries nationwide. Employing nearly 6,000 people—25% of the county's total workforce—manufacturing plays a pivotal role in powering the local economy. The Hancock Economic Development Council celebrates these forward-thinking companies, their employment opportunities, and their contribution to the community's prosperity.

Leaders in Hancock County Manufacturing

Photon Automation, Inc, Astemo, and Avery Dennison collectively employ over 1,000 people, providing high-quality paying jobs that strengthen the local economy. These three key players are producing high-quality products and pushing the boundaries of innovation to advance their industries, representing the region's cutting edge of modern manufacturing.

Photon Automation, Inc.

Advanced Laser Technology

Since moving to Greenfield in 2016, Photon Automation has been a driving force in advanced manufacturing. The company specializes in developing and producing automated machines using industrial lasers. It also provides design services, application development laboratories, product prototyping, and short-run production, with expertise in battery design and manufacturing—particularly through laser welding processes.

Key Technologies

Photon Automation is a market leader in laser welding technology, demonstrating proprietary methods for joining dissimilar metals and handling complex materials with high-power lasers. Their systems often incorporate robotics, machine vision, and other advanced sensors. Photon's three application development laboratories are equipped with cutting-edge laser technology and advanced beam delivery optics, enabling their physicists and engineers to solve some of the most challenging laser welding applications.

Local Economic Impact

The company has significantly boosted the local economy, increasing employment by 50 full-time positions since its move to Greenfield. In 2020, the company developed a prototype battery line for an automotive electric vehicle company, bringing a steady stream of customers to the area. These visitors filled local hotels and restaurants, providing a much-needed economic boost during the pandemic. Today, customers continue to visit the Greenfield facility, supporting local businesses weekly.

As an active contributor to thought leadership and technological innovation, Photon Automation is a member of Indiana's Battery Innovation Center, which promotes the development of cutting-edge battery technology. Additionally, the company has partnered with local organization Blue Whale Energy & Innovation to enhance battery performance testing through their combined expertise.

Community Engagement

Photon Automation is committed to supporting the local community. It routinely sponsors robotics clubs, hosts student tours and demonstrations, and offers summer internships to local students. Additionally, the company's Brandywine Wind community band uses its space for rehearsals and equipment storage.

Astemo (formerly Keihin North America)

Automotive Components for the Future

Astemo has been a cornerstone of Greenfield's manufacturing landscape since 1989, though it only adopted the Astemo name in 2021. The company specializes in automotive components, including products for electric vehicles (EV) and internal combustion engine powertrains including fuel injectors and intake manifolds. 

Key Technologies

Astemo utilizes robotic assembly, programmable logic controls, laser guidance and inspection systems, and advanced testing technologies such as CT and SEM analysis. These technologies ensure that their products meet the highest standards of reliability and innovation.

Local Economic Impact

In September 2022, Astemo launched its first EV product—an inverter (advanced sensor inputs and integrated drive circuits to optimize power management and motor control) for Honda's Accord, CR, and Civic models—further cementing its place in the growing EV market. With multiple projects planned for the next three to five years, the company expects to hire many new employees, contributing to local job growth and economic development.

Community Engagement

Astemo is deeply involved in the local community through initiatives like its high school internship program, which offers students paid real-world experience for high school credit and potential full-time positions post-graduation. Additionally, since 1989, the company has participated in a Sister City Program with Kakuda City, Japan, with Greenfield students visiting Japan in June and Japanese students coming to Greenfield in August. Astemo also actively supports local organizations like Hancock Regional Hospital, Hancock Hope House, and the Kenneth Butler Memorial Soup Kitchen.

Avery Dennison

Pioneering Label Technology

Avery Dennison, located in Greenfield, IN, is a leader in the production of pressure-sensitive paper and film label materials used across a wide range of industries, including packaging labels, prescriptions, beverages, personal care products, and household goods. Their products play a key role in consumer products, making them a vital part of the local and global supply chain.

Key Technologies

The company utilizes high-speed coating and lamination processes to manufacture pressure-sensitive label stock. Avery Dennison's operations are supported by advanced slitting machines that adjust the length and width of materials to meet customer specifications.

Local Economic Impact

Avery Dennison has been a staple in Greenfield since 1994, undergoing two significant expansions that have doubled its employee count and facility's footprint. Currently employing 424 people, the company is committed to growth and innovation, as evidenced by its continued focus on digital innovation and sustainability. Avery Dennison's expansion and innovation efforts have supported the local economy and solidified its position as a significant employer in Hancock County.

Community Engagement

In addition to driving economic growth, Avery Dennison is dedicated to giving back to the community. The company has partnered with several local organizations, including Changing Footprints for a year-round shoe drive, the Lions Club for eyeglass collections, and P.A.W.S for collecting and donating pet supplies.

They also contribute to educational initiatives by collecting books for Weston Elementary's Read Up program and supporting health efforts with blood drives through Versiti to benefit Hancock Regional Hospital patients. Through their partnership with United Way of Central Indiana, Avery Dennison has participated in Go All In Day, supporting local nonprofits such as the Women's Resource Center in Hancock County.

The HEDC Helps Shape the Future of Manufacturing in Hancock County

With companies like Photon Automation, Inc, Astemo, and Avery Dennison leading the charge, Hancock County is not just keeping pace with modern industry—it's setting the standard. These businesses drive technological advancements, create high-quality jobs, and support local growth, positioning Hancock County as a prominent player in US manufacturing sectors.

The Hancock Economic Development Council is dedicated to empowering businesses of all sizes, fueling growth, and fostering a thriving community. Our unwavering commitment to Hancock County drives us to help ensure the success of manufacturers and provide the opportunities for businesses and workers to succeed.

Discover how the opportunities are available to businesses in Hancock County by visiting our opportunity page or reaching out directly—let's work together to build a brighter future for Hancock County.

Pictured: William Huffman, CEO of Photon Automation, Inc.