From humble beginnings to industrial prowess—how Rapid Gear has found success in the heavy industry market From a small, rented space with a single machine to a reputable force in heavy industry, Rapid Gear’s story is as much about resilience as it is about engineering excellence. Founded nearly five decades ago by Julian and Ana Sabados, Rapid Gear is more than a gear manufacturer—it’s a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a willingness to adapt to the needs of an ever-evolving industry. This article explores the journey of Rapid Gear, its milestones, industry impact, and the values that have anchored it in a competitive market. Through exclusive insights from company President Tania Sabados, we uncover how Rapid Gear has continually pushed boundaries, embraced new technologies, and cultivated a supportive company culture that nurtures both legacy and innovation. Founding and Vision Origin Story In 1976, Julian and Ana Sabados, both immigrants to Canada from different regions of the former Yugoslavia, took a leap of faith. Julian, a trained mechanical technician, had spent nearly a decade working at Havlik Gear, gaining hands-on experience across different departments. Yet, he always envisioned more. Together with a fellow Yugoslav, he bought a machine, rented a modest space, and worked late into the night after finishing his day job, driven by the idea of building a gear shop of his own. This was the birth of Rapid Gear. With three young children at home, Ana supported Julian’s venture from behind the scenes, balancing the responsibilities of parenthood and the ups and downs of a fledgling business. “They came with nothing, and they didn’t have much to lose,” Tania Sabados says of her parents. “Their excitement came from building something they never imagined possible.” Julian’s initial partnership ended on February 14, 1980—the day his fourth child was born—but he and Ana forged ahead. They continued investing in the business, propelled by the shared satisfaction of seeing their efforts transform into a sustainable venture. Early Challenges Rapid Gear’s early vision was simple yet ambitious: to create quality gear products while building a company grounded in integrity and grit. This meant investing in both machinery and people, a theme that has continued through subsequent generations. The Sabados family’s resolve to grow from modest beginnings set the tone for a company philosophy that prioritizes quality, reputation, and adaptability over rapid expansion. Pioneering Projects One of Rapid Gear’s earliest milestones came when it partnered with a raiseboring company in Northern Ontario. This mining company, itself in the early stages of growth, needed custom-made parts for its raiseboring equipment, and Rapid Gear delivered. The partnership was a turning point, providing the financial stability and industry connections that allowed Rapid Gear to expand its capabilities and reputation. Another breakthrough came in the late 1970s with General Motors Diesel (now General Dynamics). Mowag, a Swiss company, was producing parts for military vehicles in Canada and faced difficulties finding a gear shop capable of meeting European standards. When Rapid Gear was recommended, they seized the opportunity, producing components to Mowag’s exacting standards where other companies had failed. “We’re still producing those parts today,” says Tania Sabados, “along with several new generations of components.” This success laid the foundation for decades of orders and solidified Rapid Gear’s reputation for high-quality, reliable gear manufacturing.
