COLUMBUS, Ohio — R. Riveter is a remote workforce of military spouses, including some right here in Ohio.

“It's really inspiring to be around so many wives that are supporting their families with this venture,” says Brittany Smith, a Granville resident and one of R. Riveter's remote workforce contractors. 

What You Need To Know

  • Smith joined R. Riveter two years ago after her husband was diagnosed with lung cancer

  • The business started in an attic in 2011, with two women sewing canvas and leather bags for a greater cause

  • R. Riveter appeared on Shark Tank

  • The company is made of a network of military spouses

On this day, the wife and mother of two, is making scented candles in her garage. 

Smith was motivated to start this venture two years ago, after her husband Tim, a firefighter, was forced into retirement after being diagnosed with stage four occupational lung cancer. 

“The moment my husband was diagnosed, I instantly thought of the words hope and purpose," said Smith. "We've had hope and purpose since his diagnosis. He's done very well on his targeted chemotherapy." 

Lisa Bradley, co-founder of R. Riveter, said after four moves by the time she was 24 it was time for more.

“We decided if someone was going to do something to help military spouses, it was us,” said Bradley. 

Bradley was inspired by her husband Jason, a retired Army Captain. 

The business started in an attic in 2011, with two women sewing canvas and leather bags for a greater cause. That venture led to an appearance on TV's Shark Tank and R. Riveter hasn't looked back, providing income opportunities for a national network of military spouses. 

Bradley said contractors like Brittany Smith help reassure her the company continues to succeed in its mission. 

“To be able to see their young kids grow and to be able to see their mom doing something, to be able to make candles and they do donate quite a bit of what they make to different stage four lung cancer research funds,” said Bradley. 

Smith, also an educator, says, whether it's a member of the military or a hero firefighter, we should all respect those who have served across the country—including millions of modern-day Rosie the Riveters. 

“I think the spouses that stay home and don't go overseas serve just as much as those who do," said Smith. "And we need to thank everyone who is involved in keeping our country safe and the freedoms that we have as Americans."