Anchored in Innovation: Industry Leaders Growing in Kilgore

In this episode, Dave sits down with Alan Pollard, Vice President of SATCOM Antenna Products at CPI, to discuss the unique success story of CPI’s Kilgore, Texas operation. The conversation traces CPI’s impressive 50-year history and global reach as the world’s largest antenna systems supplier. Alan shares how Kilgore’s available resources, skilled labor, and welcoming community made it a logical and strategic home for a world-class manufacturer in the heart of East Texas.

They also talk about community partnerships that have been key to CPI’s growth, including working with the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and local educational institutions. Alan highlights CPI’s cutting-edge advances like AI integration and 3D printing, and reflects on how Kilgore’s supportive and collaborative culture, affordable cost of living, and diverse workforce have enabled the company—and other incoming businesses—to thrive. Alan also offers advice for any business owner considering relocation to Texas and to smaller markets like Kilgore that offer big advantages.

Key Topics Discussed:

• CPI’s evolution from RMS and Vertex to a global leader in antenna manufacturing
• Why Kilgore was selected and remains the hub for CPI’s operations
• The company’s worldwide impact, supplying both commercial and military markets
• Community partnerships: Kilgore Economic Development Corporation and Kilgore College
• Recruitment and labor strategies, from skilled labor to engineering talent
• Emphasis on community integration, support, and STEM education
• Adoption of emerging technologies: AI and 3D printing
• The appeal and value of doing business in smaller Texas communities
• Alan’s advice for businesses considering a move to Kilgore or Texas overall
• Local culture, dining, and quality of life in Kilgore

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