Amish Ironworkers in Chester County Embrace Modern Technology While Upholding Religious Traditions.

At Compass Ironworks, based in Chester County, Pennsylvania, owner Amos Glick leads a mostly Amish workforce that specializes in the fabrication of sophisticated metal products. The company’s output includes a range of items such as intricate staircases, decorative gates, and robust estate-style fences, as well as bulletproof barriers. These functional and aesthetic products serve a diverse clientele, including East Coast shore homes, resort hotels, city offices, and private educational institutions.

The operation at Compass Ironworks exemplifies a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, reflecting broader trends within Amish communities. Scholars and leaders within these communities, including Donald Kraybill, have noted how the intersection of prosperity and business imperatives often challenges the community’s conservative values, which have historically emphasized agrarian lifestyles and self-reliance.

With advancements in technology, Compass Ironworks has adopted improved battery systems and hydraulic power to enhance their production processes. These developments have not only streamlined operations but also allow for greater efficiency while remaining aligned with their cultural values that advise against reliance on public utilities. Glick highlights the importance of adaptability, stating that as a community, they must find ways to incorporate necessary conveniences without compromising their foundational beliefs.

A notable example of this forward-thinking approach is a sophisticated German-built wrought-iron twisting machine, retrofitted to operate using a combination of battery and hydraulic power, significantly reducing the need for manual labor in repetitive processes. Such innovations illustrate a growing trend where the Amish are integrating technological advancements while maintaining their values.

The fabrication shop, originating from Glick’s family farm, has evolved over the past decade. Early on, it operated using repurposed and community-built energy solutions, from solar panels to small vehicle batteries. Recently, Glick has reinvested profits into the business, utilizing loans to improve infrastructure. Enhancements include a network of electric storage powered by Makita batteries, an oil-fueled generator to recharge these systems, and connections for propane to heat treatment stations.

Despite these modern updates, Compass Ironworks remains committed to traditional techniques. The staff uses solid German-built work tables and refurbishes older machines to run on alternative power sources. Each piece crafted in the shop is designed to be seamless and aesthetically appealing, often incorporating techniques inspired by renowned metalworkers from Philadelphia and beyond.

In addition to fulfilling customer orders, Glick encourages a culture of problem-solving within his workforce. This collaborative spirit is integral to tackling the challenges posed by intricate machinery and custom installations, where exact measurements and careful handling are vital. One crew member, Benjamin Esh, brings exceptional mathematical skills that enhance operational precision, further exemplifying the talent present within the team.

Compass Ironworks not only showcases the ingenuity typical of Amish craftsmanship but also illustrates a broader evolution in Amish business practices. As they navigate modern realities while adhering to their cultural values, they demonstrate a remarkable ability to innovate and adapt, ensuring their continued success in an ever-changing marketplace while upholding their traditions.

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