The coal mining industry created a skilled labor force and resilient distribution network in Appalachia, but its decline has stranded assets and left many struggling to find work. As we consider how best to transition these workers to a post-coal world, it is clear there is a critical gap in American manufacturing they can fill.

On July 1st 2021, ADL Ventures was pleased to have the opportunity to meet with Tom Sanford, owner of Sanford Contracting Inc. in North Billerica, MA. Sanford has been advancing prefabrication for the past 47 years and has an impressive panelized building portfolio, including Foxwoods Hotel and Casino and Assembly Row at Assembly Square.