FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SILVER LAKE, Ind. (March 2026) – Par-Kan, a steel fabricator located in Silver Lake, has enhanced its manufacturing technologies with an automated fiber laser cutting machine to enhance efficiency and workplace ergonomics.
American-Made Metal Products
With more than 65 years of manufacturing experience, Par-Kan designs and produces high-quality, American-made metal products and custom solutions for a variety of industries, some products including: ground support equipment for the airline industry, the “Easy Dump” trash collector, seed storage and mobile weigh wagons for the agriculture industry, and more.
Opportunities Through Purdue MEP’s Grant Program
Utilizing Purdue Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)’s Grant Discovery Program, Par-Kan secured $138,000 in funding to support the purchase of a new fiber laser cutting machine.
In December 2024, Purdue MEP and the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) announced a collaboration to promote and connect manufacturers in Kosciusko County with Purdue MEP’s Grant Discovery Program.
Kosciusko County manufacturers can access a subsidized membership, for a nominal fee, that provides entry to a comprehensive database of more than 1,000 tax incentives, grants, and other funding opportunities across federal, state, and local programs.
“Helping manufacturers implement advanced technologies is at the heart of our mission at Purdue MEP,” states Ranae Stewart, Senior Executive Director of Purdue MEP. “The success of Par-Kan illustrates the powerful impact the Grant Discovery Program can have on small and medium manufacturers. Access to funding often makes the difference in enabling these types of investments that drive innovation and growth. We appreciate KEDCO’s commitment to promoting this program and supporting manufacturers in their region.”
Cutting Edge: A Closer Look at the New Laser Technology
The automation has significantly improved material handling speed and reduced physical strain on employees at Par-Kan.
“Instead of lifting and positioning individual sheets with a crane, we now load a full shelf of material using a fork truck, and the machine handles all of the lifting,” said Randy Kinsey, Par-Kan Vice President of Operations.
Kinsey said the equipment has been a game-changer for the company, allowing them to bring previously outsourced work back to the plant, while saving time and reducing costs.
The laser has enabled Par-Kan to achieve cutting speeds two to two-and-a-half times faster than its previous plasma cutting systems. Parts can also be micro-tabbed to the sheet skeleton, preventing loss during material movement from the cutting tables to automated storage.
“It has also expanded our capacity, allowing us to support our other divisions and serve as a cutting resource for other businesses in need of additional support,” Kinsey said.
Team members from KEDCO and Purdue MEP visited Par-Kan last month to see the new machinery and learn more about progress.
“Connecting employers to opportunities and resources like this is central to our work, and we applaud Par-Kan for continuing to grow and improve their operations,” said KEDCO CEO Peggy Simmons. We encourage local manufacturers to connect with us to explore resources like these.”
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About Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation
Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) was established in 1984 to drive economic and community growth throughout Kosciusko County. As the county’s lead economic development organization, KEDCO serves all municipalities with a mission to convene, build, and show the community’s talent, ideas, and capital. Learn more at www.kosciuskoedc.com.
About Purdue Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)
Purdue MEP, part of the NIST MEP National Network, provides high-value, affordable, personalized consulting and training services that enable Indiana manufacturers to work smarter, compete, and prosper. We develop more effective business leaders, drive product and process innovation, promote company-wide operational excellence, and foster creative strategies for business growth, workforce development, economic competitiveness, and greater profitability. To learn more, visit www.mep.purdue.edu.
About Par-Kan
Par-Kan Company is a Silver Lake, Indiana-based steel fabricator with more than 65 years of manufacturing experience. Founded in 1958, Par-Kan designs and produces high-quality, American-made metal products and custom solutions for a variety of industries. Known for its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and reliability, Par-Kan continues to invest in advanced manufacturing technologies to better serve its customers and partners.
Media Contacts:
Peggy Simmons (KEDCO) – 574.306.4119 or psimmons@kosciuskoedc.com
Julie Warner (Purdue MEP) – jawarner@purdue.edu
Randy Kinsey – rkinsey@par-kan.com
