TenCate is a manufacturer of protective fabrics, serving three main segments: emergency response (the global fire service), a military business primarily serving the U.S. military, and an industrial safety business that operates globally.
Originating over 300 years ago in the Netherlands, TenCate has a long legacy in protective fabrics.
In the United States, Southern Mills was the precursor to TenCate, and that part of the business turns 100 years old this year.
As the Global Vice President for Emergency Response, I focus on growing the business, establishing and executing our emergency response strategy, and overseeing our portfolio, new product introductions, and innovation.
I lead a cross-functional group that meets monthly to develop new and better solutions for protecting firefighters.
In emergency response, we concentrate on two parts of the ensemble: outer shells and thermal liners.
We recently launched PBI Peak 5, a lightweight outer shell that meets both European and U.S standards.
While we provide these components, companies like Gore and Steadfast supply the moisture barrier that goes between them.
PBI is a strategic partner for us globally; we collaborate closely, and they focus on high-end performance products.
Additionally, we offer a broader portfolio of fabrics to meet different price points and needs.
After a fire department completes its risk assessment, we can help prescribe a tailored solution.
We cover the entire global market and have various products to suit different requirements.
One of our key differentiators is our patented Enforce™ technology, developed across our global R&D teams.
It’s designed to create a lighter yet very strong fabric.
This technology allows us to achieve desirable weights for outer shells while maintaining the necessary strength and durability.
In fire protective clothing, three components are crucial: thermal protection, weight and comfort (often relating to breathability), and durability.
Total cost of ownership is significant—knowing that a garment will last and won’t need frequent replacement helps fire departments manage expenses.
We balance these factors, and Enforce™ enables us to find the optimal combination of weight and durability.
Thermal protection remains our core focus.
A trend we’re observing in the U.S. is the introduction of PFAS-free moisture barriers.
Changes in breathability from these new barriers could influence the acceptance of lighter weight fabrics in the U.S.
We’re anticipating these shifts and adapting accordingly. We’re collaborating closely with PBI on future innovations and enhancements.
We have active projects between our teams in the Netherlands and Atlanta.
Our global footprint allows us to apply insights gained in one region to others, addressing unmet needs across markets and providing solutions that customers appreciate.
