Photo caption: SBA Deputy Administrator Bill Briggs tours EOD Gear’s ISO 9001-2015 certified manufacturing facility in Franklin, Tennessee, highlighting the role of small manufacturers in strengthening the Defense Industrial Base.

EOD Gear recently hosted SBA Deputy Administrator Bill Briggs at our Franklin, Tennessee manufacturing facility to showcase how small, high-performance manufacturers are supporting the nation’s Defense Industrial Base.

The visit focused on domestic production capacity, skilled workforce development, and the role small defense manufacturers play in strengthening supply chains. EOD Gear operates as an ISO 9001-2015 certified, ITAR-registered manufacturer with ATF FFL Type 10 and Federal Explosives licensing, producing explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), demining, and specialized defense equipment for federal and municipal customers.

During the tour, we demonstrated our in-house CNC machining capabilities, including HAAS milling and turning operations, alongside additive manufacturing platforms used to accelerate prototyping and low-volume production. This vertically integrated approach allows us to control quality, shorten production timelines, and respond quickly to mission-driven requirements.

Small manufacturers are increasingly critical to national security. As federal demand grows for domestically produced defense components and mission-specific equipment, companies like EOD Gear are investing in advanced manufacturing technologies and expanding production capacity to meet those needs. Our operations support skilled jobs in Middle Tennessee while contributing directly to federal readiness and modernization efforts.

The discussion also highlighted how SBA initiatives are supporting manufacturers that are scaling responsibly within regulated industries. Access to capital, advisory support, and federal contracting guidance are key factors in enabling small defense manufacturers to compete and grow in complex procurement environments.

EOD Gear continues to expand its manufacturing footprint, supporting federal agencies, prime contractors, and public safety organizations with precision-manufactured tools, protective equipment, and specialized components. Our focus remains clear: build domestically, maintain strict quality standards, and deliver mission-ready solutions without compromise.

We appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate how Tennessee manufacturing is contributing to national defense readiness and strengthening America’s industrial base.

Learn more about EOD Gear manufacturing capabilities at www.eod-gear.com or contact us to discuss partnership opportunities.