Why choose Camel As your manufacturing partNer
Camel Expeditionary has a legacy of supplying critical soft-sided solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and its partners. Now, we’re focused on leveraging our experience to offer private label, Build-to-Print manufacturing at scale. We operate under strict confidentiality and uphold the highest standards in quality assurance, Berry compliance, and mission-readiness.
Core Values
As Your Manufacturing Partner, Camel Expeditionary, we will:
- Trusted Confidentiality
- Precision-Engineered Fabrication
- American Made, Mission Ready
- Responsive, Agile Manufacturing
our process
At Camel Expeditionary, our century of manufacturing expertise is the foundation of our process. We leverage continuous improvement and reinvest in state-of-the-art equipment to serve as your turnkey manufacturing partner, delivering dependable and cost-efficient solutions that bring your designs to life. Learn More
Proud History
Founded in 1919 by World War I veteran B.A. Bower, Camel Manufacturing Company got its start producing civilian canvas tarps and truck covers made from surplus Army tents. At the onset of World War II, Camel began the much-needed production of military tents and vehicle covers for the U.S. Army. The company’s dedication to the U.S. Armed Forces through several conflicts, including the Korean and Vietnam wars, led to multiple expansions and eventually a primary focus on military-related products.
certifications & awards
US Department of Labor Quality Award
Outstanding achievement award
Defense logistics agency awards
Contractor self-oversight program
Association of the United States Army
dedicated Team
Mark Riffle
President and Chief Operating Officer
Holding positions of CEO, COO and President, Mark has led several businesses through substantial change. His background includes sales, operations, and engineering, with substantial experience in the transition and integration of new acquisitions and rebuilding troubled businesses. Mark has a proven track record of substantially increasing shareholder value and profitability in the businesses he transitions. Mark received his BS in Aeronautical Engineering from Arizona State University. He is also certified as Six Sigma Master Blackbelt and a Lean Expert.
Frank Bakirdan
EVP Business Development & Sales
Frank is a seasoned executive with more than 35 years of experience driving corporate strategy, business development, and sales growth across the textile, retail, and promotions industries. Recognized for his results-driven leadership and collaborative approach, he has consistently delivered transformative revenue growth and profitability through strategic planning and operational excellence.
His expertise spans corporate strategy and P&L management, market expansion, and supply chain optimization. Frank’s proven track record of building high-performance teams and implementing cost-effective, scalable solutions has positioned him as a trusted leader in driving sustained business success and operational efficiency.
DANNY Ledford
Director of Operations
Danny Ledford is Director of Operations at Camel Expeditionary, leading manufacturing at Pioneer, Tennessee facility in support of both defense and commercial shelter programs. With more than 20 years at Camel in roles spanning production and continuous improvement, he brings extensive hands-on knowledge of the business. Danny focuses on lean manufacturing, process discipline, and data-driven problem solving to improve throughput; quality, and on-time delivery across Camel’s operations platform.
Derick Mercer
Director of Sourcing
Since 2007, Derick’s roles have included accounting, sales, operations, inventory management, engineering, and logistics. He currently manages inventory and purchasing, supply chain and inventory control, and plays a substantial role in cost reduction. His workplace experience contributes to our product throughput, sustainability, and high standards for quality. Derick received his BS in Accounting from The University of Tennessee. In his spare time, he likes going on adventures with his family, attending sporting events, swimming, and watching movies.
SCOTT CAMPBELL
Director of Engineering
With over 30 years of experience in manufacturing and production management, I have developed a strong foundation in operations, engineering, and process improvement. I began my career as a Cutting Supervisor and advanced through roles including Pattern Maker, 2nd Shift Plant Manager, and Program Manager. Over the years, my responsibilities have evolved to focus heavily on engineering design and process optimization.
In my current role at Camel, I specialize in designing and building Bills of Materials (BOMs), developing technical drawings using AutoCAD and SolidWorks, and overseeing prototype and first article builds. As a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Professional, I apply continuous improvement principles to streamline workflows and enhance product quality.
ALLEN KING
Cutting Supervisor
Amanda Newport
Sew Supervisor
Stephanie Young
Sew Supervisor
Mike Sharp
Warehouse Supervisor
Dennis Newport
Packing Supervisor
JIm Clements
Maintenance Supervisor
MISSION STATEMENT
You are bold, fearless, and adaptable – it is how you’re made. We are innovative, efficient, and reliable – it’s how we’re made. Camel Expeditionary designs, manufactures, and delivers affordable, high-caliber soft-sided shelter solutions worldwide, so you can do what you were made for!