ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill.—For more than 160 years, Rock Island Arsenal-Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center has been a vital hub for American defense manufacturing, evolving from a Civil War-era Prison Barracks to a modern facility focused on producing critical components for the Armed Forces and allied nations. Its enduring strength lies not only in its advanced technology but also in the dedication of its workforce, a commitment exemplified by families whose service spans generations.
“If you were in the military, you needed these weapons,” Cliff Voss, a veteran and former RIA-JMTC employee, reflected on the importance of reliable supplies during his own service. “And I was always able to get these weapons and clothing. It was hard to come by, but eventually, it arrived.”
Voss’ journey to the Arsenal began on a farm in Bennett, Iowa. Following high school, he answered the call to serve in the Vietnam War, like many of his generation. Upon his return, he utilized his GI Bill benefits, initially unsure of his career path, but ultimately finding his calling through RIA-JMTC’s prestigious machinist apprenticeship program. This program, known for its rigor and quality, has shaped the skills of countless machinists for more than a century, cultivating a workforce capable of addressing the nation’s most pressing defense needs.
“I applied and I made the cut,” Voss said. “Out of 105 people, they took 37 of us, and I was one of them. The whole program is challenging, but you entered with a clear objective.”
The transition from a military user to a manufacturer of essential equipment proved deeply fulfilling for Voss. Witnessing firsthand the impact of timely supplies during his service, he embraced the opportunity to directly support the Warfighter. This commitment became the driving force behind his 40-year career, fueled by dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence, directly contributing to the JMTC’s vision of “delivering high-quality, on-time readiness solutions to the Warfighter – while advancing modernization to decisively win America’s wars.” The facility’s consistent ability to meet demanding schedules and maintain exceptional quality, ensuring reliable products reach the field, was a source of immense pride.
“That’s the whole draw,” Cliff Voss explained. “I always thought it might seem small to some, but it was big to the guy out in the field, sitting in a mud hole, wet and sick, and receiving clean clothes. So, when I came here, I knew I was going to support the troops, and I aimed to provide them with what they needed.”
RIA-JMTC’s apprenticeship program served as a pathway to mastery. Voss excelled, demonstrating a natural aptitude and unwavering dedication, and became committed to honing his skills to the highest level. This ambition, combined with a strong work ethic, laid the foundation for a successful and impactful career, built on continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies.
“Working here was never monotonous,” Cliff Voss said. “I learned something new every day. I always valued the knowledge shared by others, and I learned a great deal from the apprentices I mentored, as they often introduced me to the newer machines I hadn’t yet encountered.”
The Voss legacy extends beyond Cliff, with his sons, Clint and Lucas, following in his footsteps. Clint, now a weld supervisor, and Lucas, a maintenance worker, represent the second generation of Vosses contributing to RIA-JMTC’s mission. Their decision to join the factory’s workforce was influenced by witnessing their father’s dedication and the pride he took in his work, as well as recognizing the opportunities for professional advancement within the organization.
“They watched me throughout my 40 years here. They understood what I was going through,” Cliff Voss explained. “I missed weddings, parties, anniversaries, birthdays. I was here. I never complained. I was here.”
Clint Voss, entering RIA-JMTC as a younger generation, initially felt stunned by the scale and complexity of the facility. However, he quickly adapted, embracing the challenge and benefiting from the guidance of experienced colleagues. The factory’s culture of mentorship and collaboration proved instrumental in his success, reflecting a long-standing commitment to developing expertise within its workforce.
“It was very overwhelming at first, just the sheer size of the operations: the welding, machining, painting, plating, everything,” Clint Voss admitted. “They didn’t readily share information at first, but once they recognized your talents, they took you under their wing.”
Lucas Voss embodies the spirit of innovation and practical problem-solving that thrives at RIA-JMTC. Drawing on a background rooted in the self-reliance of farm life, he consistently seeks opportunities to improve processes and overcome challenges. Lucas has demonstrated a knack for identifying inefficiencies within the factory and devising practical improvements, showcasing the Arsenal’s commitment to empowering its employees to contribute to its overall success.
“This place lets you use your imagination,” Lucas Voss explained. “When they have a problem, they come to us and ask for a solution, and then they give us the freedom to implement it. It’s incredibly rewarding when someone trusts you enough to invest in what might seem like a ‘hair-brained idea.’ That’s when you know you’re making a real difference.”
The Voss family’s commitment to RIA-JMTC extends into a third generation, further solidifying their legacy within the facility. Lucas and Clint’s nephew, Hunter Nelson, now contributes his skills as a welder, carrying on the family tradition of hands-on craftsmanship. The pride doesn’t stop there, as Clint’s son, Colton Voss, alongside his wife Brianna, also plays a vital role at the Arsenal. Colton works in the maintenance department, ensuring the smooth operation of critical equipment, while Brianna provides essential administrative support, demonstrating a complete family dedication to the factory’s mission and a shared belief in its importance to national defense.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to see Colton and Brianna carrying on the family tradition here,” Clint Voss shared. “Knowing they’re both contributing to something bigger than themselves, supporting the Warfighter and upholding the values we’ve always held dear, that’s something truly special.”
The story of the Voss family is a testament to the enduring power of dedication, the importance of skilled craftsmanship, and the unwavering commitment to supporting those who serve, directly contributing to the JMTC’s vision of “advancing modernization to decisively win America’s wars.” Their multi-generational legacy at Rock Island Arsenal-JMTC embodies the spirit of American manufacturing and the values of service and sacrifice, building upon a foundation of growth and leadership.
“Working here was never monotonous. I learned something new every day,” Cliff Voss concluded, reflecting on his fulfilling career. “And that’s what I did.”
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