Copper Mountain Technologies, a leader in radio frequency (RF) test and measurement solutions, has successfully transitioned its manufacturing operations to Indiana, marking a significant step in its commitment to domestic production and strengthening supply chain reliability.
The company’s decision to relocate production from overseas comes in response to growing demand for greater flexibility, improved lead times, and more efficient logistics. For years, Copper Mountain Technologies relied on overseas manufacturing partners for the production of its vector network analyzers (VNAs). However, global supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical instability, and unpredictable shipping delays made it clear that a new approach was needed.
By reshoring its manufacturing operations, Copper Mountain Technologies aims to gain better control over production timelines, enhance quality assurance, and contribute to the economic growth of Indiana’s burgeoning tech and manufacturing sectors. The move also aligns with the company’s strategy to bolster its manufacturing capabilities in the U.S. with the help of local partners and state-backed economic initiatives.
Strengthening U.S. Production with Local Partnerships
The success of Copper Mountain Technologies’ reshoring initiative has been heavily influenced by strategic partnerships with local manufacturers in Indiana. These collaborations have enabled the company to optimize production while maintaining the highest standards of quality. Key manufacturing partners include:
- Divsys (ICAPE Group), based in Indianapolis, is a leader in PCB (printed circuit board) fabrication and assembly. Divsys has played a crucial role in ensuring that Copper Mountain Technologies’ high-performance RF components are assembled to exacting specifications. The partnership has also helped improve turnaround times and mitigate the risks associated with long-distance supply chains.
- Stephen Gould, located in Whitestown, specializes in custom packaging solutions for sensitive electronic instruments. This partnership ensures that Copper Mountain Technologies’ products arrive safely to customers worldwide, with the flexibility to quickly adjust packaging designs to meet evolving product needs.
- Estes Design and Manufacturing, based in Indianapolis, is responsible for fabricating metal enclosures and housings for Copper Mountain Technologies’ VNAs. Close collaboration between the two companies has optimized designs before mass production, ensuring both durability and efficiency.
- LaserScribe, also based in Indianapolis, provides laser engraving services for component labeling and branding, ensuring precision and long-lasting results.
- Eagle Magnetic Company, Inc., located in Crawfordsville, specializes in powder coating services, which add a protective finish to Copper Mountain Technologies’ instruments, enhancing their durability and resistance to environmental wear.
The company’s ability to meet with local suppliers in person has made it easier to collaborate, discuss production details, and quickly implement necessary changes.
Navigating International Challenges and Strengthening Supply Chains
Copper Mountain Technologies’ reshoring effort is also a response to global events that have directly impacted its operations. Prior to 2022, the company collaborated with an engineering team and contract manufacturer in Russia. However, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Copper Mountain Technologies made the decision to relocate both its engineering and production operations.
In the aftermath of this transition, Copper Mountain Technologies established CMT Europe in Paphos, Cyprus, which now serves as a research and development office and service center. This strategic move has enabled the company to better serve customers across Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region by providing localized support for service and repairs. Additionally, the company rebuilt its supply chain, working with manufacturing partners in the U.S., Israel, South Korea, and Cyprus to ensure consistent production.
State Support Fuels Expansion and Job Creation
Copper Mountain Technologies’ decision to bring its manufacturing operations to Indiana has been further supported by state economic development programs designed to foster growth, increase employment, and modernize operations. These programs offer funding and support for manufacturers looking to enhance efficiency, adopt new technologies, and expand their workforce.
In 2023, Copper Mountain Technologies was awarded a Manufacturing Readiness Grant from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, with funding provided by Conexus Indiana. This grant has enabled the company to upgrade its technology, refine its assembly processes, and introduce new production methods to better meet customer demands.
Additionally, Copper Mountain Technologies has been approved for the state’s Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) Program, which offers tax incentives to businesses that create new jobs. The program provides flexibility in workforce planning, allowing the company to scale its operations without compromising performance or customer support.
Stay tuned to DC Brief for further updates on this story and other technology developments.
