Ranko Ristic
Ranko Ristic, a respected and accomplished entrepreneur, began his journey in former Yugoslavia, where he completed high school for mathematics, physics, and programming. He subsequently served in the Serbian Army before attending the College of Foreign Trade and eventually moving to the United States in the mid-1990s.
Soon after arriving, Ranko completed five levels of English language at the ORT Institute in Chicago while concurrently studying at Coyne College, where he gained knowledge of the contracting business. In 1999, he founded the Tesla Company, which over the past 20 years, has become a well-respected electrical contractor, licensed in Chicago and Northwestern Indiana. Through investments in real estate, Ranko has created a portfolio that has enabled him to invest in growing additional businesses.
In 2020, he formed Zastava Arms USA, which has since become the exclusive importer of firearms for the Serbian company - Zastava Oruzje. His company has successfully improved the Zastava brand, currently the highest rated among its peers in the United States. By promoting Zastava, Ranko has committed to strengthening the American-Serbian friendship and showcasing their common history.
Recently, in 2021, Zastava Arms USA formed a strategic partnership with the Halyard Mission Foundation, cementing Ranko’s commitment to positive growth and development. Even with his numerous business endeavors, Ranko still finds time for his family, residing in the Chicago area with his wife and four children. He is widely recognized for his accomplishments, and his success story remains an inspiration to many.