An Overlooked Electronics Hub
Few people outside the region realize how much electronics manufacturing happens in Spokane Valley and the neighboring city of Liberty Lake. Over the past several decades, the area has developed a strong cluster of companies that design and build smart grid devices, display modules, telecommunications equipment, input devices, and contract-manufactured electronics for customers around the world.
Several factors make the area attractive: reasonable operating costs, a skilled workforce trained through local community colleges and universities, access to Interstate 90 and Spokane International Airport, and a business-friendly environment. The result is a manufacturing ecosystem that supports thousands of well-paying jobs.
What Makes a Strong Electronics Manufacturer
Leading electronics manufacturers combine engineering expertise, precise quality control, certifications such as ISO 9001 or industry-specific standards, and resilient supply chains. For contract manufacturers, flexibility in production volume and the ability to support design-for-manufacturing are major advantages.
The Top 10 Electronics Manufacturers in the Spokane Valley Area
1. Key Tronic
Headquartered in Spokane Valley, Key Tronic is a well-known electronic manufacturing services provider. It offers engineering, printed circuit board assembly, precision plastic molding, and full product assembly for customers in industrial, consumer, and transportation markets.
2. Itron
Itron, based in Liberty Lake, is a global leader in smart metering and connected devices for electricity, gas, and water utilities. Its products and software help utilities manage resources more efficiently around the world.
3. Crystalfontz America
Crystalfontz America, located in Spokane Valley, specializes in LCD, OLED, and TFT display modules. Engineers worldwide rely on its broad catalog, development kits, and technical support when designing products with built-in displays.
4. Telect
Telect, founded in the Spokane area, has long produced fiber connectivity, power distribution, and network infrastructure products for telecommunications providers, supporting the networks that carry modern data traffic.
5. Purcell Systems
Purcell Systems built a reputation in Spokane Valley for designing outdoor telecommunications enclosures and thermal management solutions. Now part of EnerSys, its expertise continues to serve network and power customers.
6. ALTEK
ALTEK in Liberty Lake provides contract manufacturing that includes electromechanical assembly and thermoplastic molding for medical, aerospace, and defense customers, where precision and traceability are critical.
7. Hotstart
Hotstart, headquartered in Spokane Valley, engineers and manufactures engine heating and thermal management systems used in power generation, mining, rail, and heavy equipment worldwide.
8. Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, headquartered in nearby Pullman, manufactures protective relays and control electronics that keep power grids safe. Its regional presence strengthens the Inland Northwest's electronics talent pool.
9. XN Technologies
XN Technologies in nearby Cheney builds RFID and data collection systems used for asset tracking and inventory management, combining hardware and software into practical industrial solutions.
10. Advanced Input Devices
Located in nearby Coeur d'Alene, Advanced Input Devices designs and manufactures rugged keyboards, keypads, and human-machine interface products for aerospace, defense, and industrial applications.
Trends in Electronics Manufacturing
Reshoring is a powerful trend, as companies bring production closer to customers to reduce supply chain risk. Automation and robotics are improving efficiency on assembly lines. Demand is rising for electronics that support grid modernization, electric vehicles, and the Internet of Things. Meanwhile, component availability and lead times remain a planning challenge, pushing manufacturers to diversify suppliers and hold strategic inventory.
Workforce and Education
Spokane Community College, Eastern Washington University, Washington State University, and Gonzaga University help supply engineers and technicians to local manufacturers. Apprenticeships and on-the-job training programs are also expanding, giving residents pathways into skilled electronics careers without leaving the region.
How to Choose an Electronics Manufacturing Partner
Evaluate certifications, quality metrics, and experience in your industry. Ask about engineering support, prototyping capabilities, and how the manufacturer manages component shortages. Visit the facility if possible, since local proximity is one of the biggest advantages of working with a Spokane Valley partner. Finally, discuss scalability to ensure the company can grow with your product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do companies choose Spokane Valley for electronics manufacturing?
Manufacturers cite competitive operating costs, relatively affordable industrial real estate, a stable workforce, and easy logistics via Interstate 90, rail, and Spokane International Airport. Proximity to Seattle, Portland, and Boise markets is another advantage, along with access to engineering graduates from regional universities.
What is electronic manufacturing services?
Electronic manufacturing services, often called EMS, refers to companies that build electronic products on behalf of other brands. Services typically include circuit board assembly, testing, enclosure production, final assembly, and supply chain management.
Are there career opportunities in local electronics manufacturing?
Yes. Employers regularly hire assemblers, technicians, quality inspectors, engineers, and supply chain specialists. Many offer on-the-job training, and community college programs provide pathways into technical roles.
Can startups work with local manufacturers?
Many Spokane-area manufacturers support prototypes and low-volume builds, helping startups refine designs before scaling up to larger production runs.
Final Thoughts
Spokane Valley's electronics manufacturers combine innovation with practical craftsmanship. From smart meters and displays to rugged interfaces and contract assembly, these companies prove that world-class technology can be built right in the Inland Northwest, offering both strong partnerships for customers and meaningful careers for residents.