Electronics and Advanced Technology in Southwest Indiana
Evansville and the surrounding region are best known for plastics, automotive, and food manufacturing, but electronics play an increasingly central role in all of these industries. Modern factories depend on sensors, controls, robotics, and connected equipment, while vehicles built nearby contain sophisticated electronic systems. Southern Indiana is also home to one of the nation's most important defense technology centers, creating demand for engineering talent and electronics expertise.
Electronics manufacturers and suppliers support everything from automotive assemblies and medical devices to industrial control panels and defense systems. Their presence strengthens the region's ability to attract advanced manufacturing investment.
The Regional Electronics Ecosystem
The electronics sector serving Evansville includes contract electronics manufacturers, defense research and engineering organizations, industrial automation providers, control panel builders, and electrical distributors that supply components and technical support to local plants.
The Top 10 Electronics Manufacturers and Partners Serving Evansville
1. Kimball Electronics
Kimball Electronics, headquartered in nearby Jasper, Indiana, is a global contract manufacturer producing electronic assemblies for automotive, medical, and industrial customers. Its proximity to Evansville makes it a major regional employer and a key part of Southern Indiana's advanced manufacturing identity.
2. Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane
NSWC Crane, located in Southern Indiana, is a major Navy research and engineering center focused on electronics, microelectronics, electronic warfare, and strategic systems. It anchors a growing technology ecosystem that includes defense contractors and innovation partnerships across the region.
3. Kirby Risk
Kirby Risk is an Indiana-based company providing electrical supply, supply chain services, and mechanical solutions. Its capabilities include building custom control panels and supporting manufacturers with components and automation expertise, making it a valuable resource for Evansville-area plants.
4. Graybar
Graybar is a leading distributor of electrical, communications, and data networking products. Its local branch supports contractors, manufacturers, and facilities with components, technical expertise, and logistics services.
5. Bastian Solutions
Bastian Solutions, based in Indiana, designs and integrates material handling and robotic automation systems. Distribution centers and manufacturers across the Midwest use its electronic controls, robotics, and software to improve efficiency.
6. Rockwell Automation
Rockwell Automation is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. Its programmable controllers, drives, and software are widely used in Evansville factories, supported through regional distributors and system integrators.
7. Siemens
Siemens provides industrial automation, electrification, and building technology systems. Its controllers, motors, and software platforms are common in manufacturing plants, hospitals, and commercial buildings throughout the Tri-State.
8. Eaton
Eaton manufactures power management products including circuit protection, power distribution, and backup power systems. Evansville facilities rely on Eaton equipment to keep operations running safely and efficiently.
9. Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric offers energy management and automation solutions, from electrical distribution equipment to building management software. Its technology supports energy efficiency and reliability in industrial and commercial facilities.
10. ABB
ABB produces robotics, drives, motors, and electrification products used across manufacturing and utilities. Its industrial robots and automation systems help regional manufacturers increase productivity and maintain quality.
Trends in Electronics Manufacturing
Electronics manufacturing is being shaped by supply chain reshoring, semiconductor investment, and the growing electrification of vehicles and equipment. Indiana has positioned itself as a hub for microelectronics, supported by research universities, defense initiatives, and state incentives. Smart factories that use connected sensors and data analytics are becoming standard, increasing demand for technicians who understand both electronics and mechanical systems.
Workforce and Education
Electronics careers require skills in electrical engineering, programming, troubleshooting, and quality control. Ivy Tech's industrial technology programs, the University of Southern Indiana's engineering offerings, and the University of Evansville's electrical engineering programs help prepare graduates. Many employers offer apprenticeships and tuition support to develop talent internally.
Why Electronics Matter for Evansville's Future
As manufacturing becomes more automated and products become smarter, electronics expertise will be essential for Evansville's competitiveness. A strong ecosystem of manufacturers, defense research, distributors, and automation partners helps local companies modernize operations, attract investment, and create higher-wage jobs.
Opportunities for Local Businesses
Small and mid-sized Evansville manufacturers can benefit from this ecosystem by partnering with integrators and distributors to automate repetitive tasks, add machine monitoring, and improve energy efficiency. Programs offered through Purdue's manufacturing extension network and state incentives can help offset the cost of technology upgrades and workforce training.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is contract electronics manufacturing?
Contract electronics manufacturers build circuit boards and electronic assemblies on behalf of other companies. They handle component sourcing, assembly, testing, and logistics, allowing brands in automotive, medical, and industrial markets to focus on product design and sales.
How does NSWC Crane affect the Evansville economy?
NSWC Crane supports thousands of engineering and technical jobs in Southern Indiana and attracts defense contractors and research partnerships. Its focus on microelectronics and electronic systems strengthens the region's broader technology workforce and talent pipeline.
Final Thoughts
Electronics may not be the first industry associated with Evansville, but it underpins nearly every modern manufacturing operation in the region. From contract manufacturers and defense research to global automation leaders, these companies are helping Southwest Indiana build a more advanced and resilient economy.