The Remote Mast Story 1987-2023

Our story began in the early 1980s, when Jerry Chapman—then a young machinist running a small shop in Anderson, South Carolina—was approached with a challenge. At a religious convention in Greenwood, his friend Tim Casteen asked if he could build a motorized microphone stand. Previous attempts had been clunky, relying on car antenna motors and fishing line. But Jerry saw potential in creating more efficient microphone stands.

Drawing on his engineering background, Jerry sourced a compact DC motor from his former workplace and paired it with specialized motion screws Tim had picked up at a ham radio swap meet. Using a vintage brass Atlas MS-20 mic stand, he built the first prototype of what would become our innovative motorized stands.

The prototype debuted at a large convention in Greenville, South Carolina, where it was immediately recognized for its practical advantages. Encouraged by the response, Jerry refined the design and introduced the Remote Mast Model KH, followed by Model CD.

Since then, our microphone stands have supported speakers and performers across the globe—from the United States to Europe, Japan, China, Sri Lanka, and Australia. What started as a simple idea has grown into a trusted solution for thousands.

We owe a special thanks to Tim Casteen for sparking the original concept. He still uses the very first prototype weekly at Christian meetings in Seneca, South Carolina—a testament to the durability and purpose behind our designs.

At our core, we believe in blending innovation with intention. Every product we create is built to serve, inspire, and elevate the experience of those who use our motorized stands.

2023 – Present

In 2023, Jerry retired and passed the torch to Alfred Smith at Futureswiss International. We’re honored to continue manufacturing Remote Mast products, including innovative microphone stands and motorized stands, while remaining committed to the quality and ingenuity that Jerry brought to every design.

A Bit About Futureswiss

Futureswiss itself has roots in innovation. Founded in 1989 by Al Smith and Larry Rode, we started by improving productivity in the screw machine industry with patented retrofits. Over time, we developed live tooling solutions like the Rotary Coupling, helping manufacturers boost efficiency and reduce secondary operations. 

After a friendly split in 2021, Al focused on expanding live tooling while Larry continued manufacturing. In 2022, we acquired Finley Spindles, and in 2023, welcomed Remote Mast into our growing family of innovative solutions. These additions reflect our belief in combining expertise with opportunity to better serve our customers. 

Now based in Bristol, CT, Futureswiss is a proud, family-driven business. Al is joined by his daughters Heather and Kim, and together we’re building on a legacy of precision, creativity, and collaboration. Whether it’s a motorized stand for microphone stands or a high-speed spindle, we’re here to help you work smarter.

Some of our Appreciative Customers

• Walt Disney Studios 
• Pixar Studios 
• Netflix Studios 
• CBS Television (The Price is Right)
• Willie Nelson Productions 
• Marc Graue Recording Studios, Inc.
• City Life Productions 
• South Carolina State University
• Jersey Theater Assembly Hall 
• Salisbury, NC Assembly Hall
• Orangeburg, SC Assembly Hall
• Conyers, GA Assembly Hall