About SWI Systems
A Legacy of Innovation in Southern California Manufacturing
Southwestern Industries was founded in by Dr. Fred Jenks, an engineer with a passion for practical problem-solving and technical precision. In its earliest years, the company focused on electromechanical design and fabrication—developing custom solutions that supported the emerging aerospace and defense industries centered in Southern California. SWI Systems's initial work included mechanically actuated pressure switches that played a critical role in regulating fuel systems on early launch vehicles like the Atlas and Delta—projects that laid the groundwork for America's presence in space.
In 1962, Dr. Jenks was joined by Irv Culver, a brilliant engineer with a storied background at Lockheed's famed Skunk Works. Culver brought both technical depth and inventive spirit to the company. In his early contributions at SWI, he refined pressure-switch designs for high-performance aircraft, including systems used on the U-2 and SR-71. He soon turned his attention to manufacturing tools, bringing new life to the Trav-A-Dial, a mechanical readout device that would become a staple in machine shops across the country.
Over the following decades, SWI evolved alongside its customers—adding manufacturing and systems integration capabilities to serve a broader range of industries. While the company would eventually become recognized for its contributions to CNC machine tools, its foundation has always been built on enabling innovation through practical, reliable engineering. From aerospace to industrial equipment, SWI's reputation for ingenuity and craftsmanship continues to define its role in American manufacturing.
The company continues to operate with the same mindset that shaped its earliest innovations—solving real engineering problems with practical, reliable execution. From its Southern California headquarters and its second facility in Henderson, Nevada, SWI combines technical depth with modern infrastructure and a hands-on approach to quality. Customers today rely on SWI not only for build accuracy, but for early-stage guidance that helps ensure functionality, manufacturability, and long-term support.
1951
Southwestern Industries, Inc. is founded by Fred Jenks in Southern California. The company initially focuses on precision instruments for machining applications.
1968
Launch of the TRAK DRO, one of the first digital readout systems—setting the foundation for future integration of electronic technologies in manufacturing.
1984
Introduction of the ProtoTRAK system, pioneering user-friendly CNC technology that empowers machinists and helps bridge manual and automated operations.
1990s
SWI expands vertically, adding capabilities in electromechanical integration, electronics assembly, and system-level manufacturing to serve aerospace and industrial sectors.
2005
Investment in expanded production capacity, including assembly cells and test areas for complete system integration and final QC verification.
2008
Launch of an in-house SMT line, broadening SWI's printed circuit board and electronic assembly capabilities for high-mix, low-to-mid volume production.
2021
Expansion to Henderson, NV — Southwestern Industries establishes a second operations site focused on final assembly, system-level integration, and functional testing. This facility strengthens the company's ability to deliver complete, customer-ready solutions across its contract manufacturing programs.
Today
SWI serves as a vertically integrated contract manufacturer, combining CNC machining, cable and PCB assembly, electromechanical integration, and quality-focused manufacturing systems to build complete systems and sub-systems for customers across aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.