Lancaster County debuts 'Behind the Business' profile of Horton Machine

Lancaster County's Communications and Marketing Department released a video in its new "Behind the Business" series that profiles Horton Machine and highlights local manufacturing and workforce issues. Gary Baker, Lancaster County communications manager, introduced the segment and was joined by Michael Worley of the county Economic Development Department.

The county said the series aims to promote existing businesses, emphasize employment and benefits, and connect companies with community resources. "Our promotion for our businesses in the county is really a focus on trying to help our businesses succeed and be able to put them out in the forefront of our community," Michael Worley, a representative of the Lancaster County Economic Development Department, said in the segment.

In the profile, Gary Horton, owner of Horton Machine, traced his path into manufacturing to a tool-and-die apprenticeship he began in 1966. "I started in 1966 my apprenticeship there and everything else is history with me," Horton said. He described a major industry shift in the 1980s when computer numeric control (CNC) machines and overseas manufacturing changed how parts are produced: "in the eighties, everything transferred to Japan ... and it went to the computer, numeric control, where the computer was running the machine rather than you were just punching numbers into the machine."

Horton said modern machines require substantial training and math skills, and he emphasized the value of tech schools and apprenticeship programs for preparing new workers. He described Horton Machine's production as focused on one- and two-piece prototype work rather than high-volume production, which he said gives employees a chance to work through a part from start to finish.

Both Worley and Horton offered practical advice for entrepreneurs. Worley encouraged businesses to use county promotion and partnership resources; Horton advised prospective business owners to prepare a business plan, secure a knowledgeable banker, and expect growth to be a long-term process. "You can't expect your returns to happen overnight," Horton said, adding that persistence and continual learning are essential.

The video closes with an invitation for local business owners to participate in the series: "Are you a local business owner interested in showcasing your story? Email Michael Worley or reach out to the Lancaster County Communications and Marketing team for more details." Contact details were not specified in the segment.

The piece is a county-produced promotional profile rather than a policy discussion or hearing. It focuses on business promotion, workforce training needs and practical guidance for small manufacturers.