About Us
H3 Manufacturing Group
We appreciate your interest in the services of H3. Our mission is to Power People and Purpose. We work with some of the most innovative companies to provide bespoke metal manufacturing services and solutions.
H3 has invested in its people, resources and technology to become a leader in the advanced manufacturing industry.
Our Mission
At H3, Powering People & Purpose is more than a mission—it’s the force that drives everything we do.
Powering – Powerhouse of Solutions Fueled by Precision, Skill & Grit
Powering reflects our decisiveness in being a true powerhouse of solutions. Every product, every project, and every partnership is fueled by precision, skill, and grit. We earn our reputation one detail at a time, delivering the kind of work that empowers our customers to pursue their boldest ideas with confidence.
People – Trust, Respect & Collaboration for Customers & Employees
People are at the center of our success. We believe trust, respect, and collaboration are the foundation of every strong relationship—whether with the customers who rely on us or you, our employees who bring their best to work every day. When our people thrive, our work thrives.
Purpose – In What We Do & Who We Do It for
Purpose gives meaning to that work. It’s found in what we create, who we serve, and the impact we make through our customers and their products. Our purpose pushes us to aim higher, be innovative, and be accountable —knowing that what we do today strengthens the future for our customers, our teams, and our company.
Our Values
At H3, our values define how we show up, how we work, and what we stand for—every day, in every job, at every level.
Accountable
We don’t trade truth for profit. When we commit to something, we follow through. We hold ourselves and each other to high standards and integrity because our customers and teammates rely on us to deliver—no excuses.
Grit
We do hard things and we finish them. We stay steady under pressure. We take ownership, and don’t make excuses. Grit is what turns tough moments into defining wins.
Collaborative
We win as One Team. We communicate directly, openly and respectfully. We build on each other’s strengths. We solve challenges together. We build trust across teams and with our customers.
Decisive
We address problems directly. We gather the facts, lean on our expertise, and make informed decisions that keep projects and people moving forward. Being decisive helps us stay agile, efficient, and ahead of the curve.
Innovative
We challenge “the way it’s always been done.” Innovation isn’t only about big breakthroughs—it’s about embracing change, everyday improvements, creative problem-solving, and challenging ourselves to think differently.
Our History
Rich and long heritage of precision manufacturing.
2025
We were thrilled to announce that as of May 1, 2025, RFR Metal Fabrication, Inc., based in Oxford, North Carolina, officially joined the H3 Manufacturing Group family.
RFR brought decades of expertise in precision metal fabrication, cutting-edge manufacturing processes, and a strong reputation for quality and service.
Together, we looked forward to combining our strengths, expanding capabilities, and delivering even greater value to our customers.
2019
HL Precision Manufacturing and Hi-Grade Welding & Mfg, LLC partnered to create a common parent company, H3 Manufacturing Group, LLC.
2014
HI-GRADE moved into new facility located at 140 Commerce Drive, Schaumburg, IL 60173.
HI-GRADE’s new facility doubled the square footage of its previous location.
2013
HL Precision Machining acquired Design & Manufacturing, Inc. at 302 W. Division Street, Fisher, IL 61843, as its second location on Oct. 1, 2013.
As a results of this acquisition, the company’s capabilities broadened and the company was renamed HL Precision Manufacturing.
2011
HL Precision Machining moved into its first, wholly owned, personalized facility at 2110 Round Barn Road, Champaign, IL 61821.
2006
Steve Hillard purchased Harlan and Lash Machining from the original owners on July 1, 2006. The new organization is named HL Precision Machining. “HL” represented the original co-owners Harlan and Lash.
1990
HI-GRADE diversified to include a sheet metal department.
1985
HI-GRADE diversified to include a CNC machining department.
1980s
HL Precision Manufacturing was formed by Don Harlan and Elmer Lash who started a machine shop out of their garages.
In 1984, they began their company and named it Harlan and Lash Machining. The two owners moved their company to Parkland Court in Champaign, Illinois, in the late 1980’s.
1969
HI-GRADE started as a contract welding business in a 2,500 sq. ft. facility in Franklin Park, IL. HI-GRADE welded molds for the plastics industry, as well as fabrications and frames for OEM’s and subcontractors.