Today, the AEM Manufacturing Express made a highly anticipated stop at a familiar company as we continue our journey across America’s manufacturing communities. We visited Crenlo Engineered Cab’s sister facility in Watertown, SD, where the team showcased decades of innovation and expertise that have solidified their reputation as a global leader in cab manufacturing. Today’s team in Greenville, TN, showed us how this mission resonates across the country.
For more than 25 years in Tennessee, Crenlo has played a vital role in protecting equipment operators in the mining, agricultural, and now, waste management and construction sectors. Known for life-saving cab enclosures and operator protective structures, their durable, industry-leading cabs are engineered to withstand rollovers and environmental hazards, and have enabled Crenlo to grow to become the largest cab manufacturer in the U.S.
Crenlo’s work goes far beyond building equipment—it’s a personal mission to save lives. The utility of their cabs are born of necessity but the equipment operators who rely on them are often on the frontlines, performing the essential jobs that keep society moving. What some call “dirty jobs” are the backbone of our world. Every employee at Crenlo understands the gravity of their role: they aren’t just building cabs; they’re building protection that keeps people safe.
Crenlo makes a point to tell the stories of lives saved, from a forester navigating unstable ground to a service member surviving an IED strike — all because of their cabs. These are real reminders of their work’s impact, and how the products they create can be the difference between life and death.
Crenlo’s achievements require a commitment to refining and perfecting their processes over time. The drive of their team makes this possible. Few know this better than Kevin Tarlton, project engineer, and 20-year Crenlo veteran. Kevin’s start began unconventionally when he joined the team through a temporary staffing agency, but he quickly realized the promise of the equipment manufacturing industry. Kevin worked his way up through the ranks through the support of leadership. “Crenlo is a closer-knit organization. We have a strong support system and take care of our people, which goes a long way, and I know that is why I’ve chosen to stay and grow here for all these years,” Tarlton said. Kevin’s story reflects Crenlo’s dedication to growing talent from within, as well as the strong sense of community that defines the company.
Crenlo has built a team in Greenville dedicated to one mission: be the best in the world at manufacturing life-saving cabs for industries worldwide. Through innovation, commitment, and the drive of its people, Crenlo remains a leader in the industry—protecting lives, one cab at a time.
