Inspired by the actions of a crafting store, the team at Duncan Aviation knew they could also create face masks simulated off medical masks to help employees and the greater community. Produced from cotton-based material donated by local vendors including Lucid Collections, Romo Incorporated, and Tennant and Associates, Duncan utilizes the sewing machines typically used to style aircraft interiors to create the cotton masks.   

While employees at Duncan had to transition their work and develop new processes, Travis Smith, crew lead in the upholstery shop at the Battle Creek facility said the team committed to the idea right away. “Everybody bought into it and has gone above and beyond. Without the team, it would’ve been impossible,” said Travis. “At Duncan, it’s just all about that family atmosphere and if we can help out another family, extended from ours, we’re going to do it.”

Not only has the team been able to create enough cotton masks to supply its own facility and donate to local hospitals including Oaklawn and Bronson, but they encouraged other Duncan Aviation facilities across the U.S. to do the same. In Lincoln, Nebraska the technicians are manufacturing between 1,000 to 1,500 masks a day.

Even though the creation of masks effects the normal production process at the facilities, Andy Richards, executive vice president, and chief operating officer described the importance of the shift. “We thought it was a really positive and productive way to give back to our local community,” said Andy. “Not only does it help our local medical institutions, it is a great morale booster for our team members during a time of so much stress and uncertainty.”