Ditch Witch Participates in AEM’s ‘Through the Lens Photo Series

Ditch Witch recently announced it is featured in the latest installment of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ (AEM’s) Through the Lens photo series. The company noted the acclaimed series shines a spotlight on the skilled men and women powering America’s equipment manufacturing industry.
This past spring, documentary photographer Brad Romano visited the Ditch Witch facility in Perry, Oklahoma. There, he captured striking images of Ditch Witch’s employees in action.
“At Ditch Witch, we’ve always believed that real innovation starts on the shop floor, with the people who put their hands and hearts into the machines we build,” said Kevin Smith, general manager of Ditch Witch. “Being part of Through the Lens is a powerful way to show the pride, precision and purpose our team brings to work every day. These images don’t just capture a moment, they honor a tradition of American craftsmanship that’s alive and well here in Perry, Oklahoma.”
More on the Photo Series

The press release said the photos from Ditch Witch are part of a larger series featuring six manufacturing facilities, including:
- Landoll (Beloit, KS)
- Harper (Harper, KS)
- Great Plains (Salina, KS)
- Ditch Witch (Perry, OK)
- McElroy (Tulsa, OK)
- Versalift (Waco, TX)
From the press release:
Photos from Through the Lens will be displayed in Washington, D.C.’s historic Union Station, appearing on digital directories throughout the busy transit hub. The campaign is designed to remind lawmakers and the public of the 2.3 million equipment manufacturing jobs that already power the U.S. economy, supporting communities and creating opportunities.
“Every three years, this project captures the enduring spirit of America’s equipment manufacturers,” said Kip Eideberg, AEM’s senior vice president of government and industry relations. “These are the welders, machinists, assemblers, and technicians, who represent the best of American manufacturing. As policymakers debate how to ‘bring jobs back to America,’ we want to remind them that 2.3 million of those jobs are already here, and they are the backbone of small towns and communities across our great country.”

Ditch Witch said that its participation in Through the Lens underscores the company’s role in creating high-skilled, family-sustaining jobs, preserving traditional craftsmanship and inspiring new generations to pursue careers in manufacturing and the skilled trades.
According to the press release, the photos will also be shared throughout the year via AEM’s I Make America grassroots advocacy program, social media channels and other campaigns for years to come. Check out the full series here.
Pam Kleineke is managing editor of Compact Equipment.