TORA named Thumber Fab as the council's newest member spotlight company. Get to know their story in SEMA's interview with Thumper Fab Vice President J.C. Kester, below.
SEMA: Tell us the story of your company. How did your company start?
J.C. Kester: Thumper Fab started out of necessity. After having our designs third-party manufactured and maxing out several capable vendors, we decided that in order to grow and dominate, we needed a big change. We brought everything in-house under one roof in 2019. All engineering and manufacturing are done in one facility in Marshall, Texas. From 3D scanning the vehicle, design, laser cutting, CNC press brake, powder coating, to packaging, everything lives up to our high standards. We are now able to launch and produce products for the off-road industry that truly change the game!
SEMA: What was your company's breakthrough moment?
JK: We constantly work to push the bar for premium products. Our patents and patent pending designs are true game changers and have been very well received.
SEMA: Tell us about your business now and projects you are working on.
JK: Our biggest undertaking has been suspension. After being known for premium quality bumpers, audio roofs, and roll cages, we set our sights and engineering power towards suspension. We began developing suspension systems with the goal of strength and ride quality that allowed "utility" vehicles to suddenly perform better than other "sport" vehicles on the market.
SEMA: Tell us about a product that you are proud of.
JK: One of our patent-pending designs allows for a single-control arm to house either a ball joint or uniball. Historically this would mean changing out the entire system if the customer or dealer wanted to go ball joint versus uniball. Our design allows either to be used.
SEMA: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive aftermarket?
JK: Start early. Find a way to be involved with a club or even just turning wrenches. Get involved and never stop learning!
Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates.