Ohio’s TAC Industries: The Unsung Heroes Behind U.S. Air Force Cargo Nets
When you think of Ohio’s contributions to aviation and defense, images of fighter jets and sophisticated weapon systems likely come to mind. But there’s a lesser-known yet critical component crafted in the Buckeye State that’s keeping military operations running smoothly: cargo nets.
In Springfield, Ohio, TAC Industries has been quietly producing these essential tools for the U.S. Air Force since 2005. With a workforce that embraces individuals of all abilities, the company has become a cornerstone of military logistics, manufacturing and repairing cargo nets used worldwide.
A Mission-Driven Workforce
TAC Industries is more than just a manufacturing facility; it’s a place where employees find purpose and pride in their work. The company is the sole provider of the 436L cargo net for the U.S. Air Force, a responsibility it takes seriously. Over the years, TAC has produced over one million cargo nets, delivering every order on time with zero defects reported in the field.
“We’re probably the best-kept secret in Springfield—and maybe all of Ohio,” said CEO Jim Zahora.
The production floor is a hive of activity, where about 45 employees work side by side, using both hands-on techniques and cutting-edge machinery. At peak times, they’ve assembled up to 12,000 nets in a single month.
Aretha Sims, who joined the team in 2021, shared her enthusiasm for the job. “I enjoy the work we do here. We’re a team, and we get things accomplished together,” she said. Sims even had the chance to advocate for the company in Washington, D.C., where she proudly saw her initials on some of the cargo nets she helped produce.
More Than Just Nets
For TAC Industries, the mission goes beyond manufacturing. The company is deeply committed to its employees, many of whom have found a sense of belonging and purpose through their work.
Supervisor Jeri Gutierrez recalled a touching moment: “One employee told me, ‘This is the first place I’ve worked where I actually feel like a human being and get treated like one.’”
This inclusive approach has created a supportive environment where employees thrive. Team leaders work diligently to match individual talents with the right tasks, ensuring everyone feels valued.
“Some of our employees might not be able to join the military, but this gives them a chance to support it,” said Gutierrez. “They see the nets on TV and think, ‘I was a part of that.’”
Expanding Horizons
As demand from the Air Force grows, TAC Industries is gearing up to expand its operations. The company plans to introduce a second shift and hire additional staff to meet increasing needs.
Their recent contracts with the Air Force are a testament to their reliability. The repair contract spans 10 years, the longest in the company’s history, while the new net contract is set for six years and valued at over $100 million.
These agreements not only secure TAC’s future but also highlight its critical role in military logistics. By repairing nets instead of replacing them, the company has saved the Air Force an estimated $45 million over the years.
A Made-in-America Commitment
In a significant move, TAC Industries has sourced new suppliers to ensure that its cargo nets are now 100% made in the United States, with 90% of production happening right in Ohio.
The company’s influence extends beyond the U.S. military. Its cargo nets are also sold to NATO countries that use the same cargo systems, further cementing TAC’s reputation as a trusted global supplier.
A Legacy of Purpose
For TAC Industries, the driving force isn’t just about contracts or profits—it’s about people. “We’re very proud to have them, and to see them succeed is why we come to work every day,” said Zahora.
From the production floor to the global stage, TAC Industries continues to weave a story of innovation, inclusion, and unwavering support for the U.S. military.
— Reported by Nexio News
