Empowering the Appalachian Region Through Equal-Opportunity Employment
Mission
For more than five decades, Southeastern Kentucky Rehabilitation Industries (SEKRI) has combined a people-first mission with world-class manufacturing capability. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, our highest purpose is to create competitive employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities while meeting the strict quality and delivery standards of our customers across the United States.
SEKRI operates multiple facilities across Kentucky and Tennessee, employing hundreds of skilled workers and producing mission-critical sewn products, assemblies, and contract-manufactured items trusted by military, government, and commercial partners.
Creating jobs.
Building skills.
Transforming lives.
SEKRI was founded in 1971 to expand employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities in a region long underserved by industry. Today, we employ over 700 people across eight facilities, making SEKRI one of the region’s most impactful and consistent economic anchors.
Through on-the-job training, GED and adult education, rehabilitation counseling, and flexible support services, SEKRI helps employees gain the skills, confidence, and independence needed to thrive both at work and beyond it.
Key Impact Points
- Over 700 employees across KY and TN
- Minimum 75 percent of direct labor performed by individuals with disabilities (AbilityOne requirement)
- On-site GED and adult education programs
- Partnerships with the VA, community organizations, vocational rehabilitation, and recovery programs
- Transportation support for employees, including veterans
Contract Manufacturing Excellence
American-made products. ISO-certified processes. Decades of proven performance.
SEKRI delivers high-volume, high-precision contract manufacturing for military and commercial customers. All production is B2B/B2G only — we do not retail consumer products.
Textile & apparel manufacturing
Automated Gerber cutting systems
Technical sewing (knits, wovens, performance fabrics)
Embroidery and trim integration
Engineering & M&D (SourceAmerica-authorized)
Kitting, assembly, and repackaging
Contract packaging and fulfillment
Warehouse & inventory management
Vendor-managed inventory solutions
Rapid-response logistics, including access to secured government facilities
Manufactured Product Categories
- Protective Combat Uniform (PCU) components
- Improved First Aid Kit items (IFAK)
- Military headgear (garrison caps and boonie hats)
- Fire-retardant base layers
- Tactical pouches, tourniquet kits, and field gear
- Tents, jackets, and technical apparel for military applications
- Coats manufactured for Operation Warm
- BANDI Wear belts produced through dedicated contract lines
Trusted by Government & Commercial Partners
U.S. Military and federal government agencies
AbilityOne & SourceAmerica
Lockheed Martin (Platinum Vendor Supplier Rating)
Galls
Operation Warm
Commercial brands seeking U.S.-based textile manufacturing
People First
- On-site support from rehabilitation counselors
- Flexible scheduling and accommodations for medical, therapy, or recovery needs
- Access to GED and adult education programs
- Opportunities for advancement, skill development, and job reassignment
- Transportation support for those who need it
Many employees grow into new roles, overcome personal challenges, and build long-term careers within SEKRI’s supportive environment.
Awards & Certifications
- ISO 9001 Certification (2000, 2008, 2015)
- DLA Outstanding AbilityOne Program Vendor Award (2013)
- Lockheed Martin Small Business Award (2014)
- National American Legion Award for Employment and Support of Veterans (2011)