Built Different Since 1978
The Left Handed Hammer Company has been making practical products for hardworking people since 1978.
What started as a small manufacturing operation has grown over the years, but we still do business much the same way we always have. Build a good product. Stand behind it. Treat people right. And don't make things more complicated than they need to be.
We're proud of the people who work here, the community we call home, and the products that have carried our name for nearly five decades.
Our Team
John H. Carpenter Jr.
John H. Carpenter Jr. serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of The Left Handed Hammer Company, continuing a family business that has proudly served American industry since 1978.
Founded by his father, John H. Carpenter Sr., the company earned its reputation by designing and manufacturing dependable industrial products for customers who valued practical engineering, quality craftsmanship, and long-term reliability over passing trends.
After spending more than two decades working throughout the business—including manufacturing, operations, customer support, and product development—John assumed leadership of the company in 2020 following his father's retirement.
Under his leadership, The Left Handed Hammer Company has remained committed to its founding principles while continuing to expand its product offerings and invest in modern manufacturing capabilities.
John believes the company's greatest strength has never been a single product or machine, but the people behind them. He maintains an active presence throughout the facility and can often be found on the manufacturing floor working alongside employees, reviewing new product concepts, or meeting directly with customers.
Outside the office, John enjoys spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and supporting local community organizations. He remains committed to preserving the family values and practical work ethic that have defined The Left Handed Hammer Company for nearly five decades.
President & Chief Executive Officer
Janene Mitchell
Janene Mitchell has been the organizational backbone of The Left Handed Hammer Company for more than two decades. As Office Manager, she oversees the daily administrative operations that keep every department moving—from customer communications and scheduling to purchasing support, vendor coordination, and office administration.
Known throughout the company for her attention to detail and calm approach to problem-solving, Janene is often the first person customers speak with and the person employees turn to when they need an answer. Her ability to keep projects organized, coordinate departments, and anticipate problems before they arise has made her an invaluable part of the company's continued success.
Having spent her entire career in the local community, Janene has built lasting relationships with customers, suppliers, and neighboring businesses alike. Her knowledge of both the company and the people it serves reflects the small-town values on which The Left Handed Hammer Company was built.
Whether she's coordinating a shipment, helping a customer, organizing company events, or making sure the office runs smoothly, Janene brings the same professionalism, reliability, and genuine care to every part of her job.
Outside the office, Janene enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, volunteering with local community organizations, and cheering on her grandchildren at their weekend activities.
Office Manager
Shipping & Logistics ManagerTommy Reynolds
Tommy Reynolds serves as Shipping & Logistics Manager for The Left Handed Hammer Company, overseeing all outbound shipping, receiving, inventory movement, and freight coordination. He works closely with production, purchasing, and customer service to ensure orders are shipped accurately and on schedule.
A United States Marine Corps veteran, Tommy brings a disciplined, detail-oriented approach to every aspect of warehouse operations. His ability to coordinate multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy has earned him a reputation for reliability among coworkers, customers, and freight partners alike.
Since joining The Left Handed Hammer Company, Tommy has modernized several warehouse processes while preserving the practical, hands-on approach that has defined the company for decades. Whether he's coordinating incoming materials, tracking inventory, or arranging nationwide freight shipments, Tommy is committed to making sure every order leaves the facility exactly as promised.
Known for his calm demeanor and willingness to jump in wherever he's needed, Tommy is equally comfortable operating a forklift, helping load a truck, or working with customers to solve time-sensitive shipping challenges.
Outside of work, Tommy enjoys spending time with his family, staying active, volunteering with local veterans' organizations, and mentoring young people interested in military service or skilled trades.