Mission-Driven American Manufacturing for Defense and Commercial Partners
Mission
Southeastern Kentucky Rehabilitation Industries, Inc. (SEKRI) is a non-profit organization whose primary purpose shall be to provide qualified personnel, facilities and related services for persons with disabilities, enabling them to obtain and to be successful in maintaining competitive employment.
For more than five decades, SEKRI has paired that purpose with manufacturing capability that meets the quality and delivery standards of 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 approximately 600 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
- Approximately 600 employees across eight facilities in Kentucky and Tennessee
- At least 75% of total direct labor hours performed by individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities, consistent with AbilityOne Program requirements
- On-site GED and adult education programs, including career ladders for all employees
- Partnerships with the VA, community organizations, vocational rehabilitation, and recovery programs
- Transportation assistance at select locations
Contract Manufacturing Excellence
American-made products. ISO 9001 certified quality management. Decades of proven performance.
SEKRI delivers high-volume, high-precision cut-and-sew manufacturing for military and commercial customers, primarily serving government and commercial organizations through contract manufacturing.
Cut-and-sew textile and apparel manufacturing
Automated Lectra 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
Government-compliant logistics, documentation, packaging, and labeling
Manufactured Product Categories
- Airborne Tactical Assault Panel (ATAP) and load-carriage components
- Next-to-skin garments, including military boxers and base layers
- Military caps and headwear across multiple styles
- Improved First Aid Kit (IFAK) items and components
- Fire-retardant hoods and protective apparel
- Tents and shelter components
- Tactical pouches, tourniquet kits, and field gear
Trusted by Government & Commercial Partners
U.S. Military and federal government agencies
AbilityOne & SourceAmerica
Aerospace and defense prime contractors
Public safety organizations
Nonprofit and humanitarian programs
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
- Excellent vacation and holiday pay plus a full benefit package
- Transportation support at select locations
Many employees grow into new roles, overcome personal challenges, and build long-term careers within SEKRI’s supportive environment.
Awards & Certifications
- ISO 9001:2015 certified quality management system, certified by IsoTec Alliance and valid through October 2028
- DLA Outstanding AbilityOne Program Vendor Award (2013)
- Lockheed Martin Small Business Award (2014)
- National American Legion Award for Employment and Support of Veterans (2011)