Electronics Manufacturing and the Fishers Tech Scene
Fishers has positioned itself as a city where technology and entrepreneurship thrive. The Indiana IoT Lab, located in Fishers, brings together startups and established companies working on connected devices, sensors, and smart systems. These innovators depend on electronics manufacturers to turn prototypes into production-ready products, and Indiana offers a surprisingly deep base of electronics expertise.
From automotive electronics in Kokomo to defense systems in Fort Wayne and semiconductor investment near West Lafayette, Indiana's electronics industry supports everything from vehicles and aircraft to medical devices and industrial automation.
What Makes a Strong Electronics Manufacturer
Leading electronics manufacturers offer design support, rigorous quality systems, advanced testing, and supply chain management. Certifications for automotive, medical, or aerospace work are critical for regulated industries. For startups, a manufacturer that can scale from small runs to full production is especially valuable.
The Top 10 Electronics Manufacturers Serving Fishers
1. Kimball Electronics
Headquartered in Jasper, Indiana, Kimball Electronics is a global contract manufacturer producing electronics for automotive, medical, and industrial customers. Its engineering and manufacturing capabilities make it a strong partner for companies scaling connected products.
2. Allegion
Allegion, with its Americas headquarters in nearby Carmel, designs electronic and mechanical security products, including smart locks and access control systems used in homes, schools, and businesses.
3. Aptiv
Aptiv has deep roots in Kokomo, where automotive electronics have been developed for decades. The company produces advanced vehicle electronics and connectivity systems.
4. L3Harris Technologies
L3Harris operates significant facilities in Fort Wayne focused on defense communications and electronic systems, contributing to Indiana's strong aerospace and defense sector.
5. RTX
RTX, through its Raytheon business, has a presence in Fort Wayne producing advanced electronics and communication systems for defense applications.
6. BAE Systems
BAE Systems operates in Fort Wayne, manufacturing electronic controls and systems for aerospace and defense customers.
7. SK hynix
SK hynix has announced an advanced semiconductor packaging facility in West Lafayette near Purdue University, a major step in bringing high-tech chip production to Indiana.
8. Hurco Companies
Indianapolis-based Hurco designs and manufactures computer-controlled machine tools and the advanced control systems that power them, serving precision manufacturers worldwide.
9. Bastian Solutions
Bastian Solutions, headquartered in Indianapolis, designs automation and robotics systems for warehouses and distribution centers, integrating sensors, controls, and software.
10. Cummins
Cummins, headquartered in Columbus, Indiana, develops electronic controls, electrified powertrains, and battery systems as it expands beyond traditional engines.
Electronics Trends Shaping Indiana
Semiconductor investment is a major trend, supported by federal incentives and partnerships with Purdue University. Vehicle electrification is driving demand for battery management systems, power electronics, and sensors. The Internet of Things continues to expand into agriculture, healthcare, and smart cities, aligning with the work happening at the Indiana IoT Lab in Fishers.
Supply chain resilience is also reshaping the industry, as companies seek domestic suppliers to reduce reliance on overseas production. Indiana's central location and logistics infrastructure make it attractive for these investments.
Opportunities for Fishers Innovators
Fishers startups developing hardware products can benefit from proximity to experienced manufacturers, engineering talent from Indiana universities, and a supportive local innovation ecosystem. Collaborating early with a manufacturer helps ensure designs are cost-effective and manufacturable. Established companies in Fishers can also tap into Indiana's supplier base for components, assemblies, and testing.
How to Choose an Electronics Manufacturing Partner
Evaluate quality certifications, engineering support, production capacity, and experience in your industry. Ask about design for manufacturability services, component sourcing strategies, and testing capabilities. Visiting facilities and reviewing past projects can provide valuable insight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is contract electronics manufacturing?
Contract manufacturers build electronic assemblies and products for other companies, providing services such as circuit board assembly, testing, box build, and supply chain management.
How can a Fishers startup move from prototype to production?
Engage a manufacturer early to review designs for manufacturability, plan component sourcing, and run a pilot build before scaling up. Local innovation resources can also help connect founders with partners.
Why is Indiana investing in semiconductors?
Semiconductors are critical to vehicles, defense, and computing. Indiana is leveraging Purdue University's research strength and federal incentives to attract chip packaging and related production.
What certifications matter for electronics?
Common standards include ISO quality certifications, automotive-specific standards, medical device requirements, and workmanship standards for circuit board assembly.
Is the Indiana IoT Lab open to startups?
The lab supports entrepreneurs and companies working on connected technology, offering a collaborative space for development and testing.
How do defense electronics benefit Indiana?
Defense electronics manufacturers provide high-skill engineering jobs and drive investment in advanced manufacturing, creating a talent pipeline that also benefits commercial technology companies.
Final Thoughts
Indiana's electronics manufacturing sector is stronger and more diverse than many realize. For Fishers businesses and innovators, the companies highlighted here offer the expertise and capacity to bring ideas to market. As semiconductors, electrification, and connected devices continue to grow, central Indiana is well positioned to play a leading role.