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Archive for the ‘Industry’ Category

Buck Knives Expands Sales and Marketing Team

Friday, April 2nd, 2021

New Positons Set to Strengthen Aggressive Plans
In creation of newly formed Regional Sales Management roles, Buck Knives is pleased to announce Connor Slepikas and Anthony (Tony) Tekansik have joined the company to further strengthen aggressive growth plans. Under Vice President of Sales, Mike Silverberg, Slepikas and Tekansik will remotely oversee sales activities for the Western and Eastern United States and Canada.

“The addition of these talented individuals is both strategic and necessary. As Buck Knives evolves in its effort to service an expansive dealer base and exceptionally broad product line, our field based Regional Managers will provide enhanced communications and value to our retail partners.  Our new structure is a direct response to our customers’ needs for responsive data based support at the local level,” said Silverberg. “Connor and Tony exemplify Buck’s mission, values, and authentic hands-on approach to achieving excellence in customer satisfaction.”

Slepikas, most recently with Leatherman Tool Group, brings six years of practical field based experience managing retail sales channels, conducting clinical training sessions, and executing promotional and merchandising programs. An avid outdoorsman with a respect for high quality gear, the Buck Knives lifestyle fits closely with his passions for hunting turkey and following his bird dog in the upland prairies. Slepikas will be responsible for territories in the Eastern USA and will work closely with Buck’s sales agents, marketing and product teams, driving awareness for the Buck brand and value proposition. Slepikas holds a BS in Recreation and Sport Management from the University of Arkansas.

With over 10 years of direct sales experience, primarily in sport optics with Pentax and Leica, Tekansik will be responsible for the Western USA territories. Growing up in Colorado, he used Buck products in his backyard of the Rocky Mountains and is excited to clinic the attributes of Buck Knives with retail partners. He will support established representatives in the West, executing strategic plans designed to maximize the sales of new and core products. Tekansik holds a BA from Western State University in Gunnison, Colorado.

In addition to these key roles, Buck Knives has also grown their Sales and Marketing support team by welcoming Katie Swanson as Graphic Design Coordinator, Debbie Bobshosky as Sales Coordinator, and Whitney Wienholz as Marketing/Ecommerce Administrator.

Swanson joins the Buck team as an accomplished Graphic Designer. She has over three years of marketing, digital marketing, social media, and media/design experience. She will be working with Buck’s Marketing team to design promotional materials, print and digital content. Swanson holds a BA in Graphic Design from Northwest Nazarene University in Idaho.

With over 11 years of experience working for Buck’s west coast representative group, J. Harding & Associates, Bobshosky serves as Buck’s Sales Coordinator. She will support inside/outside sales in a direct and indirect capacity, working across several departments, communicating with customers, and facilitating the needs of sales reps and management to keep projects and initiatives on track.

Wienholz, a recent college graduate, is the new Marketing/Ecommerce Administrator. Wienholz will be responsible for directing and applying available resources to support the Director of Marketing, Marketing Manager, and the expanding Ecommerce division. She also will collaborate cross departmentally to assist in the implementation and production of marketing collateral and public relations projects. Wienholz holds a BA in Journalism and Mass Communication from Whitworth University in Washington.

“As we continue to align with today’s market and customer needs, these new members are essential to help facilitate our day to day operations and ensure we maximize customer experience across all areas of our business.  We look forward to what this robust group of talented individuals will bring to Buck Knives,” said Silverberg.

Senator Jack Reed Visits G-Form Manufacturing Facility in Smithfield, Rhode Island

Friday, April 2nd, 2021

The Company’s revolutionary SmartFlexTM technology to be considered as a key innovation to better protect U.S. warfighters
PROVIDENCE, RI, April 1, 2021 – G-Form®, a leader in advanced, comfortable protective gear solutions, today received a special visit from Jack Reed, U.S. Senator for Rhode Island. Senator Reed, a West Point graduate, recently became Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC). SASC oversees the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), the nation’s largest federal agency.

G-Form, a member of the Warrior Protection and Readiness Coalition (WPRC), creates innovative products that provide dynamic protection to enhance athlete performance, and are tailored for a variety of team sports, such as baseball, soccer, hockey, and basketball, as well as action sports, such as mountain biking and snowboarding. What drew the attention of Senator Reed is G-Form’s recent initiative to develop innovative protective gear for the military. In addition, G-Form has been recognized by the Marine Corps Systems Command for designing the most innovative knee and elbow padding.

“We were delighted to host Senator Reed at our North Smithfield manufacturing facility,” said Glen Giovanucci, CEO of G-Form. “Without question, our unique ability to serve as a leading technology-driven solutions provider on the athletic field can translate to the battlefield. We view warfighters as tactical athletes, and are committed to developing better, unique innovations to enhance their performance. As a proud Rhode Island-based manufacturer utilizing U.S.-based raw materials, we look forward to working closely with Senator Reed and the SASC on providing solutions that better prepare our warfighters for success.”

G-Form’s patented protective gear technology, called SmartFlexTM, is created using advanced polymer formulas. All products are designed to allow freedom of movement while minimizing risk of injury by hardening on impact, allowing users to push their physical limits without sacrificing performance, comfort, or style. SmartFlex is 100% waterproof and machine washable.

Utilized by a wide range of sports and outdoor activities, G-Form products are trusted by hundreds of professional athletes around the world, including players throughout professional baseball, such as another four-time All-Star, Manny Machado; world class mountain bike riders, like FMB World Tour and Crankworx Champion, Emil Johansson; and professional soccer players spanning the most elite levels of play globally. In addition, G-Form is the official protective partner of Perfect Game, the recognized pathway to Division I college and professional baseball opportunities worldwide.

ABOUT G-FORM

G-Form is a technology-driven protective solutions provider. A pioneer in the advancement of impact protection technology for athletes, the company’s proprietary cutting-edge manufacturing process and utilization of innovative SmartFlex materials combine high-level impact protection with comfort, style, and complete freedom of motion. G-Form has become a chosen protective equipment brand for athletes across multiple categories including baseball, MTB, BMX, skateboard, soccer, volleyball, military, and professional stunt. For more information about G-Form, visit www.g-form.com.

B&T USA Partners with Mike Pannone of CTT Solutions

Friday, April 2nd, 2021

Tampa, FL (April 2, 2021) – B&T USA is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Mike Pannone of CTT Solutions. Mike joins the B&T team with a primary role of Director of Training; he will also assist in increasing brand awareness within influential professional markets and to drive strategic sales opportunities within B&T’s established top tier LE and SOF customer bases.

“Mike has a sterling reputation and an accomplished, professional background that continues to go unmatched within this space. He is not only well-connected within firearms industry, but is acutely aware of the importance of driving both company sales and marketing goals to better position those companies he chooses to represent — B&T is proud have him on our team,” stated Jon Scott, Vice President of Sales, B&T USA.

Mike will be a high-visibility contributor to the B&T brand and will be seen at various training events, trade shows, VIP/Media presentations, and his contributions to product development will be clear as B&T USA releases new and innovative products over the course of 2021 and beyond.

About Mike Pannone/CTT Solutions

Mike is a former operational member of U.S. Marine Reconnaissance, Army Special Forces (Green Beret), 1st SFOD-D (Delta) and the Asymmetric Warfare Group. He is an active USPSA pistol shooter holding a Master class ranking in Limited, Limited-10 and Production divisions. Mike has participated in stabilization, combat and high-risk protection operations in support of U.S. policies throughout the world as both an active duty military member, and a civilian contractor. Mike also worked as the primary firearms instructor for the Federal Air Marshal program in Atlantic City, as well as the head in-service instructor for the Seattle field office. He has spent countless hours on the range and in the classroom with military units, LEO and operational personnel sharing his vast combat and practical experience to increase proficiency and organizational success.

www.ctt-solutions.com

About B&T USA

B&T USA, a Florida-based firearms, silencer and accessories manufacturer operating under license of B&T AG SWITZERLAND, which was founded in 1991 as a designer and manufacturer of the industry’s most advanced suppressors. Under the leadership of Karl Brügger, B&T AG has evolved into a world leader in the design, manufacture, and sale of the most technologically advanced, high performance weapons systems in the world. From the comprehensive APC (Advanced Police Carbine) line, recently adopted by the United States Army, to the new 9mm USW® (Universal Service Weapon) and USW conversion kits; B&T weapon systems are used globally by police, Special Forces, and elite military units. For more information on B&T USA, visit: www.bt-arms.com

Blackhawk Adds ‘Real World’ Experience With Tony Sentmanat as New Brand Ambassador

Tuesday, March 30th, 2021

VIRGINIA BEACH, Virginia – March 30, 2021 – Blackhawk®, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over 20 years, announced today its newest brand ambassador: Tony Sentmanat of Real World Tactical.

Sentmanat is a Marine Corps veteran and law enforcement SWAT operator with over 22 years of ‘Real World’ experience. A lifelong practitioner of mixed martial arts, Sentmanat also has extensive experience as a law enforcement combative trainer and as a firearms instructor for over 20 years. He has received numerous law enforcement awards and more than 40 commendations throughout his career for meritorious service.

“I am honored to partner with a company like Blackhawk, who has been an industry leader for so many years,” said Sentmanat. “Blackhawk has a longstanding legacy of providing superior products to our military and first responders and I’m excited to help continue that tradition.” 

Sentmanat spent most of his career in SWAT where he was involved in over 800 real-world operations before retiring in 2016 to pursue his dream of starting his own business, Real World Tactical. He now travels the world teaching fitness seminars and tactical training to civilians, military personnel and police departments. In the virtual world, he serves as an avatar in the Call of Duty video game, season five.

“Anytime you can partner with someone like Tony who not only understands the importance of having quality gear but is also highly respected in the community, you move fast,” said JD Dulaney, Vice President and General Manager for Vista Outdoor Tactical. “Tony’s story and extensive background in the industry speaks to the heart of the Blackhawk brand and we look forward to working with him on the development of new products that will benefit firearms enthusiasts at every level.”

For more information on Blackhawk, visit www.blackhawk.com.

Vickers Tactical Welcomes Hendrick Porsche to its Family of Brand Affiliates and Sponsors

Tuesday, March 30th, 2021

PRESS RELEASE

I am extremely proud and honored to announce that Hendrick Porsche of Charlotte, North Carolina, is the newest sponsor for the Vickers Tactical YouTube channel. While it would be noteworthy for anyone in the public eye to affiliate themselves with two renown names like Porsche and Hendrick, it is particularly noteworthy and unprecedented in the firearms industry. I am humbled to be affiliated with two such brands, and I am eager to utilize this opportunity to provide some genuinely exciting and unquestionably unique content to my fans. Expect to see entertaining and educational Porsche video content with extraordinary upgrades and customizations, and don’t be surprised when you see me doing some work with them on the range!

I have become good friends with many of the people that work at Hendrick Porsche and have purchased a number of vehicles from them prior to this partnership. Hendrick Porsche sets the standard for professionalism and customer service. They are a first class operation in every way.

Stay tuned for the delivery of the Hendrick Porsche supplied vehicle later this year, where the whole delivery process, outfitting, and planned customizations will be revealed. Without question, it will be a vehicle that fans of my brand will approve of!

In addition, I want to sincerely thank all of my other sponsors and brand affiliates, and most of all, my fans, supporters, and channel subscribers. I simply could not carry out all of these exciting Vickers Tactical projects without you. As always, whether it be at firearms industry events or just out in public, feel free to come up and introduce yourself, and we can talk guns, gear, and of course, Porsche. LAV out.

Hendrick Porsche Statement:

The team at Hendrick Porsche is extremely excited to join forces with Larry Vickers and the team at Vickers Tactical. The partnership has grown out of our equal passion for Porsche vehicles and the incredible respect for the knowledge that Larry provides in his area of expertise. Our strong friendship has grown over the years and we look forward to taking care of all of our mutual fans in the future.

Sincerely,

Larry Vickers

Vickers Tactical Inc.

S&S Precision Presents – SHOP Show South

Friday, March 26th, 2021

After last fall’s highly successful SHOP Show in Virginia Beach, S&S Precision is taking it on the road.

It’s set for Wednesday, May 26th from 1000-1600 at San Marcos, Texas. As you can see, there are a variety of vendors involved.

Please note, attendance is restricted to DOD, Federal, State & Local customers only.

AeroVironment Earns ISO 14001 Certification for Environmental Management System – Aligns with the Company’s Zero-Emission Unmanned Systems

Thursday, March 25th, 2021

• Certification represents third-party validation of company’s commitment to conducting business in an ethical, environmentally sensitive and proactive manner

• Complements the AS9100 Revision D (2016), Quality Management System the company has held since 2018

• AeroVironment’s battery-powered small unmanned aircraft and tactical missile systems emit no greenhouse gasses during operation

SIMI VALLEY, Calif., March 24, 2021 – AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), today announced the company has earned International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 certification for its Environmental Management System.

The international ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management standard provides an environmental management system framework for companies to help identify, monitor and control their environmental impact, such as resource consumption and waste production. 

“AeroVironment’s purpose is to secure lives and advance sustainability through transformative innovation. Earning ISO 14001 certification demonstrates our commitment to advancing sustainable practices,’’ said Kenneth Karklin, AeroVironment senior vice president and chief operating officer. “By developing a formal Environmental Management System that is ISO 14001 certified, we are able to actively measure and closely manage the overall environmental impact of company decisions, placing a greater focus on AeroVironment’s environmental footprint.”

“With a 50-year history of doing more with much less, AeroVironment offers a portfolio of battery-powered small unmanned aircraft and tactical missile systems designed for rapid deployment and small logistical footprint. Employed directly by frontline troops, AeroVironment’s solutions avoid the greenhouse gas emissions produced by conventional internal combustion aircraft, rocket-powered missiles and ground vehicles while delivering the situational awareness and precision that helps their operators Proceed with Certainty,” Mr. Karklin added.

AeroVironment’s ISO 14001:2015 certificate (CERT-013516) took effect February 9, 2021 after a multi-month audit with SAI Global Assurance, a leading global management systems certification body. The certification addresses all of the company’s operations in Ventura County, California as well as its operations in Huntsville, Alabama, Wilmington, Massachusetts and Lawrence, Kansas. The certification complements the AS9100 Revision D (2016), Quality Management System Certification AeroVironment received in 2018.

In line with its founding principles, AeroVironment has become one of the largest electric UAS manufacturers, delivering a suite of zero-emission, energy efficient, battery-powered UAS and tactical missile systems as well as developing stratospheric, solar powered high-altitude pseudo-satellites (HAPS) for global connectivity. These innovative vehicles are designed to deliver valuable new capabilities to their users while also reducing their logistical footprint and environmental impact. 

To learn more about AeroVironment’s Environmental Management System and Corporate Social Responsibility program, visit www.avinc.com/about/corporate-social-responsibility.

Xentris Wireless Announces Expansion of its Manufacturing Operations

Thursday, March 25th, 2021

ADDISON, Ill., March 24, 2021 — Xentris Wireless announces the strategic expansion of its current manufacturing capabilities at its headquarters in Addison, Illinois to support the production of its EXO Charge line. Last year, Xentris Wireless expanded its capabilities to include ruggedized charging and power solutions for the Warfighter by leveraging its knowledge of rapid consumer product development in conjunction with newly acquired knowledge of military power solutions.

“To further support our latest military product division, EXO Charge, we are proud to expand our manufacturing operations. With this addition, we now support all aspects of our product development process – designing, engineering, testing and manufacturing – under one roof,” states David Bailey, President & Chief Executive Officer.

Construction is currently underway and will incorporate new state-of-the-art automated equipment and testing to allow manufacturing to be the most efficient. The main production area is scheduled for completion during the second quarter of 2021. The development and expansion of this area will be an ongoing effort throughout the year.

“Our mission is to deliver the absolute best charging solutions that improve the agility of the modern Warfighter making them faster, lighter and more lethal. With all product development functions along with our manufacturing and distribution center in one location, it will enable us to execute product development and delivery much faster,” states Mike Stein, Vice President of Military & Government Services.

With nearly 30 years of experience, Xentris Wireless has built a reputation as a reliable partner in designing, manufacturing and distributing high quality, innovative wireless accessories supplying a full line of products to a wide range of customers and top wireless companies – including the largest wireless carriers, retailers and dealer agents.