Auburn Manufacturing
Auburn Manufacturing Inc. is a U.S. company based in Mechanic Falls, Maine. The company produces heat- and fire-resistant fabrics for industrial use, supplying the United States Navy and other customers. Auburn Manufacturing services industries such as glassmaking, mining, and shipbuilding. Founded in 1979, Auburn Manufacturing is known for its disputes with Chinese competitors over unfair trade practices. The company manufactures amorphous silica fabric and other products, which it sells to 30 countries. In 2022, Auburn Manufacturing experienced double-digit growth, citing "strong global demand." In July 2023, President Joe Biden visited Auburn Manufacturing, praising the company for weathering “decades of economic storms.” Lauding Auburn Manufacturing’s record, Biden noted that 2023 has been the company’s best year to date. Kathie Leonard, owner of Auburn Manufacturing, claimed, “[Biden's] focus on domestic manufacturing has increased demand for products like ours.” CNN subsequently highlighted Auburn Manufacturing as an example of America's "factory boom." Celebrating the growth of blue-collar work during his visit, Biden pointed to rising investments in construction projects by Auburn Manufacturing and other companies. Leadership Auburn Manufacturing is owned by Leonard, who serves as president and CEO. Leonard founded the company at the age of 27, growing it into a business with two