ABOUT US
OUR MISSION, OUR HISTORY, OUR DRIVE
The foundation of CIT is working hard to maintain integrity, fairness, and trust with all of its customers, suppliers, and employees.
Staying customer-centered is the heart and soul of this organization and our designs support this philosophy. Our customers take top priority. Alongside excellence in customer service, CIT takes great value in its employees; continually developing their knowledge.
The keys to achieving an environment of excellence are lifelong learning and professional growth; both of which CIT takes very seriously. Customers’ needs and expectations are met because of CIT’s commitment to excellence in developing long-term relationships. Strategic leadership enables CIT to continue exceeding customer expectations everyday.
OUR HISTORY
Contract Industrial Tooling (CIT) was founded in 1987 in Dayton, Ohio, as a small two-person tool shop focused on light contract manufacturing.
A few years later, operations moved to Richmond, Indiana, where the company expanded into manufacturing custom steel shipping racks and containers for the automotive industry.
As demand grew, CIT added new facilities to its campus, eventually constructing a 118,000-square-foot facility to support increased production.
In 2025, an additional 72,000-square-foot facility was added to accommodate new business opportunities.
CIT has since continued expanding into other markets, including CAB enclosures, liftgates, and aerospace containers, solidifying its position as a leader in advanced manufacturing solutions.
THE CIT STORY
History
CIT began in 1987 with a clear mission: to build the best tool shop possible.
Founded in Dayton, Ohio as a two-person operation specializing in light contract manufacturing, CIT quickly established itself as a leader in the industry by focusing on craftsmanship, customer experience, and continuous improvement.
Growth
As the company grew, it relocated to Richmond, Indiana, expanding its capabilities to manufacture custom steel shipping racks and containers for the automotive industry. With business flourishing, CIT eventually built and moved into its new 118,000 sq ft facility which was expanded to 130,000 square feet in 2021. Allowing for further expansion into industries such as CAB enclosures, medical therapy tables, lift gates, and most recently, aerospace manufacturing.
Aerospace
The company’s advancements in aerospace have been a significant milestone, leveraging cutting-edge technology, precision engineering, and rigorous quality standards to meet the needs of this highly demanding sector.
Aerospace Leadership
CIT now partners with top aerospace component and engine manufacturers, providing specialized containers for these components and assemblies. These containers require the highest levels of accuracy, durability, and compliance with industry and government regulations. This expansion has reinforced CIT’s reputation as an innovative and adaptable manufacturing leader.
But CAB came first
Before aerospace and continuing today, the company has extensive experience in designing and manufacturing CAB enclosures. These operator environments are critical in industries where safety, durability, and efficiency are paramount.
CIT’s CAB enclosures are engineered to provide optimal protection and usability, ensuring that operators have a comfortable, functional workspace. Whether used in heavy machinery, industrial vehicles, or specialized equipment, these enclosures are built to withstand the toughest conditions while enhancing performance and ease of use.
Some of CIT’s CAB customers include Toyota, Mitsubishi-Caterpillar, Jarraff, Case, Kion, Leeboy, and Laymor.
Our Approach
At its core, CIT is built on integrity, fairness, and trust—principles that guide its relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees.
Staying customer-centered is the heart and soul of the organization, and its designs support this philosophy.
By prioritizing excellence in both service and product development, CIT has fostered a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
Employees are encouraged to expand their knowledge, ensuring the company stays at the forefront of the industry while exceeding customer expectations every day.
Working with some of the top brands in the world
Today, CIT collaborates with some of the most advanced and sophisticated manufacturing brands in the world - Rolls Royce, Toyota, Subaru, Honda - plus the United States government including the Marines, Navy, AirForce and Army.
Core Values
The company embodies core American values—free enterprise, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. From its early days to its current state-of-the-art operations, CIT has always been dedicated to pushing boundaries and improving customer experiences.
At the heart of CIT’s success is a commitment to precision, efficiency, and safety. The company thrives on process improvement, reverse engineering, and strategic thinking—ensuring that every solution is designed to meet customer goals, enhance performance, and deliver complete satisfaction.
Design and process innovation have played a crucial role in shaping CIT’s trajectory, enabling the company to stay ahead in a competitive industry.
Lifelong learning and professional growth are essential elements of CIT’s success. The company takes these values seriously, fostering an environment where employees are continually developing their skills.
This dedication to excellence translates into long-term relationships with customers, as CIT remains focused on delivering innovative solutions tailored to evolving industry demands.
Two fundamental values define CIT’s DNA: innovation and customer focus.
Putting the customer first
Every day, the team operates with a simple yet powerful philosophy—stay customer-focused, always. By maintaining this mindset and upholding the highest standards of integrity, CIT has proven that anything is possible.
The future is bright
With strategic leadership and a highly skilled team, CIT continues to lead the field in innovative manufacturing.
The company remains dedicated to its customers, delivering exceptional products and services while fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth.
By prioritizing excellence and long-term partnerships, CIT ensures that customer expectations are not just met—but exceeded—every single day.