Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing

In this episode of Clocking In: Voices of NC Manufacturing, host Dr. Phil Mintz sits down with Tommy Ausheman, co-founder and president of Outrider USA. Based in Mars Hill, North Carolina, Outrider USA is a premier manufacturer of adaptive electric all-terrain vehicles designed to restore independence, adventure, and access to the "great outdoors" for individuals with mobility impairments. Tommy’s journey began at Appalachian State University, where his passion for mountain biking and rock climbing collided with his studies in Appropriate Technology. This discipline—focused on creating functional, repairable, and sustainable solutions without over-engineering—became the foundation of his design philosophy. The company refers to itself as "Wing Builders," a title inspired by a moment of soul-searching and the myth of Icarus. Tommy explains that for many customers—particularly those with spinal cord injuries or veterans—an accident can feel like being stuck in a "dark place." Outrider machines act as "wings," providing the means to rise out of that space and rediscover freedom. Listeners also get an inside look at Outrider’s manufacturing journey, from its humble beginnings in a small Fletcher workshop to its current 10,000-square-foot facility in a historic manufacturing building in Mars Hill. Tommy discusses the challenges and realities of American manufacturing, including supply chain complexity, scaling production, and the decision to sell direct-to-consumer to keep manufacturing in the U.S. This inspiring conversation showcases how North Carolina manufacturers like Outrider USA combine engineering ingenuity, purpose-driven leadership, and local manufacturing to create life-changing products—and why NC manufacturing remains a powerful force for impact. LINKS NCMEP | IES | Outrider USA ABOUT The North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP) NCMEP is the official state representative of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The MEP National Network is a unique public-private partnership that delivers comprehensive solutions to manufacturers, fueling growth and advancing U.S. manufacturing. NCMEP is administered by NC State University Industry Extension Services and partners with the Economic Development Partnership of NC, the Polymers Center of Excellence, Manufacturing Solutions Center, Hangar6, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Industrial Solutions Lab, and NC State University Wilson College of Textiles to help manufacturing companies develop and maintain efficient operations that are well-positioned to grow profitably. About NC State University Industry Extension Services (IES) NC State University Industry Extension Services is the extension operation outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists, and business development leaders, providing business engagement, assessment, and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions. Through combined resources and collaboration efforts, NC State University Industry Extension Services provides services that help manufacturers to: Expand Local and U.S. Supply Chain Vendor Relationships Access Customized Training Programs to Narrow the Workforce Gap Realize the Efficiencies of Smart Manufacturing and Advanced Technology Save Time and Energy through Improved Processes, Productivity and Capacity Expand Facility and Equipment Capabilities Increase Sales and Profits Create and Retain Jobs Streamline New Product Design, Testing, Development and Time to Market Outrider USA Outrider USA is an innovative manufacturer of adaptive electric vehicles based in Mars Hill, North Carolina. The company’s mission—captured in the name “Wing Builders”—is about restoring freedom, independence, and adventure to people whose mobility has been limited by injury or illness. Dr. Phil Mintz Dr. Phil Mintz is the Director of NC State Industry Extension Services (IES). Through his leadership, NCMEP supports manufacturers across the state with resources in innovation, process improvement, workforce development, and business growth. Tommy Ausherman Tommy Ausherman is the President and Co-Founder of Outrider USA.