Founded in 1944 as the H.I. Thomas Company, TIGHITCO, Inc. is an aerospace and defense manufacturing firm specializing in engineered components and services. Headquartered in Ladson, South Carolina, the company operates facilities in the United States and Mexico, including locations in Berlin, Connecticut; Charleston, South Carolina; and Chihuahua and San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Over time, the company expanded its activities through acquisitions and the creation of additional divisions, including an Aerostructures division established in 1972.
TIGHITCO’s operations are organized into three main divisions: AeroStructures, Insulation Products, and Overhaul Support Services (MRO). The company manufactures composite structures, insulation systems, and sheet metal components used in aerospace and other industrial applications. It also operates an FAA and EASA Part 145 repair station providing maintenance and overhaul services for helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft components, including gearboxes and rotor blades. TIGHITCO holds AS9100 and Nadcap certifications and supports customers in the aerospace and defense sectors with design, manufacturing, testing, and maintenance services.
Dec 22, 2025 · TIGHITCO has received a long-term agreement to support the UH-60M Black Hawk program for Sikorsky, supplying composite structures and aerospace components for the U.S. Department of Defense.
Nov 5, 2024 · TIGHITCO’s US Complex Composites division has received a three-year production award for Lots 7 and 8 of the Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter program.
Mar 27, 2018 · Sikorsky honored its top suppliers with a ceremony in West Palm Beach, Florida. 22 suppliers were recognized for best performance in achieving on-time delivery, cost and quality standards during 2017