Carrying Forward Nearly 130 Years of American Manufacturing Excellence

thomasBook_RZ_blogPost-image

When Thomas was founded in 1898, it championed “Made In America,” a phrase that takes on greater weight today in light of the world’s persistent and significant supply chain disruptions. 

As I step into my role as General Manager of Thomas, I'm struck by both tremendous responsibility and extraordinary opportunity to lead a brand that has been the backbone of American manufacturing for nearly 130 years. I am excited to take the helm of Thomas and lead a great team that is committed to modernizing this iconic brand while preserving its foundational mission of advancing American manufacturing. 

Proud of Our “Made in America” Initiative

Just this week, we demonstrated our ongoing commitment to this mission by becoming a co-sponsor of the U.S. Small Business Administration's Made in America Manufacturing Initiative. This partnership represents our continued commitment to reviving and strengthening American manufacturing capabilities.

To support this vital initiative, we launched a dedicated hub for connecting buyers with certified American manufacturers, making it easier than ever for companies to find, evaluate, and connect with U.S.-based suppliers who can meet their specific needs.

A Legacy Built on Connection & A Vision for the Future

As a predecessor wrote a decade ago now, “It’s impossible to calculate the number of buyers and suppliers we've connected through our more than 100-year history—but each connection has strengthened the fabric of American manufacturing.”

As I take the helm of Thomas, my vision for the future is clear: To be the trusted engine behind industrial connection — empowering buyers and suppliers to build a better world. 

We’re consistently delivering an expanded product portfolio that helps manufacturers grow through enhanced exposure, qualified traffic generation, and comprehensive digital marketing services. We’re modernizing our product offerings and providing intuitive solutions that enhance the quality of their connections.

At the heart of our platform is a searchable database of more than 500,000 U.S.-based suppliers across 80,000 industrial categories. This powerful tool enables buyers to search, filter, and connect with American manufacturers, facilitating connections that strengthen our domestic supply chain.

Supporting America's Manufacturing Backbone

America's manufacturers are the true backbone of our domestic economy. These companies are deeply ingrained in their communities, driving local economic growth. Supporting them isn’t just good business—it's a win for American workers, our neighbors, and our country as a whole.

Thomas is uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role as buyers and suppliers navigate a constantly changing geopolitical environment and our resolve is stronger than ever to strengthen the entire ecosystem that makes American manufacturing competitive. Every connection facilitated through Thomas contributes to job creation, community development, and national economic security.

I’m energized by what lies ahead. The next chapter of Thomas's story will be written by the thousands of manufacturers, buyers, and partners who believe in the power of American manufacturing. Together, we'll ensure that “Made in America” continues to represent quality, innovation, and reliability for generations to come. 

 

Did you find this useful?

Next Story »

Actionable Next Steps for Manufacturers...

Free Missed Opportunity Report

Free Missed Opportunity Report

See which buyers are searching Thomasnet.com for the products & services you specialize in.

Get Buyer Report

The Ultimate Guide To Marketing

The Ultimate Guide To Marketing

Learn about all the Digital Marketing Tactics that are Driving Growth for Manufacturers in 2025.

Get Guide