Webbingbabel: About ORC Industries

...

In 1966 James Holtan had a desire to create a non-profit organization where people with disabilities could find employment opportunities, and thereby lead a more independent lifestyle. Little did James Holtan know that in creating ORC Industries, he was creating not only a new organization, but a community built on a lifestyle of quality and personal self-worth. James Holtan was literally leading the nation in his vision for ORC Industries.

In 1983 ORC was the only manufacturer able to source a new and improved sealant for the United States Armed Forces poncho. ORC continued to manufacture this mainstay of the Armed Forces until 2014. In 1995, ORC collaborated with Natick Research & Development Laboratories in Natick, Massachusetts to develop and test the Improved Rainsuit for the United States Army with manufacturing to follow until 2011. Both of these products highlight our partnership with our Customers and commitment to quality and pursuit of production excellence.

ORC Industries

ORC Industries is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that manufactures military-grade outdoor gear while providing meaningful employment for people with disabilities. Founded in 1966, the company is a major contractor for the U.S. Department of Defense, producing essential equipment entirely made in the USA.

Key Products & Services

ORC Industries is a leading supplier to the U.S. Armed Forces, specializing in high-performance textiles and gear: Military Gear: The official manufacturer of the U.S. Navy "Dixie Cup" hat since 1991. They also produce official military ponchos, improved rain suits, and field tarpaulins.
Outdoor Brands: The company owns and manufactures Redfeather Snowshoes and handcrafted canoes.
Services: Beyond manufacturing, they provide 3PL fulfillment and logistics, commercial laundry, and light assembly for various industries.

Mission and Impact

The organization’s core mission is to advance the independence and self-sufficiency of people with disabilities through employment. Workforce: At least 75% of their employees have a disability.
Locations: They operate facilities in La Crosse, Arcadia, and Westby, Wisconsin, as well as Brownsville, Texas.
Quality Standards: Despite being a nonprofit, they operate with business efficiency, utilizing ISO 9000 compliant processes to meet rigorous military specifications.
For direct inquiries or to shop their surplus military-grade gear, you can visit the official ORC Industries website.
Are you looking for specific military surplus items from ORC Industries, or do you need information on their employment programs?

history

ORC Industries was established in 1966 by James Holtan in La Crosse, Wisconsin, starting with just 15 employees. Over nearly 60 years, it has evolved from a local vision into a major national nonprofit manufacturer.

Foundational Years & Military Expansion

1966: Founded with the mission to provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
1976: Began its long-standing partnership as a supplier to the U.S. Armed Forces, initially producing items like ponchos and rain suits.
1983: Became the sole manufacturer capable of sourcing a high-performance sealant for military ponchos, a product they produced for over 30 years.
1991: Appointed the official and exclusive manufacturer of the U.S. Navy "Dixie Cup" hat.
1995: Collaborated with Natick Research & Development Labs to create the Improved Rain Suit (IRS) for the U.S. Army.

Diversification & Modern Growth

2006: Expanded its consumer footprint by acquiring Redfeather Snowshoes and Bell Canoe, moving production to La Crosse.
2010s–Present: Broadened its business model to include 3PL fulfillment, commercial laundry, and advanced logistics using robotics to remain competitive in a global market.
2025: Joined the Department of Defense's Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) to support military families.
Today, ORC Industries operates multiple facilities across Wisconsin and Texas, maintaining a workforce where at least 75% of employees have a disability.
Would you like to see a list of current military surplus gear available for purchase or details on their vocational training programs?

Associated