ABOUT guardian electric manufacturing
100+ Years of Innovation in American Manufacturing & Engineering
Since 1905, Kelco Industries has been a leader in precision-engineered components for aerospace, automotive, medical devices, and industrial applications. As a family-owned, American manufacturing company, we’ve built a legacy of innovation, reliability, and industry leadership—trusted by Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and defense contractors.
Pictured: Michael J. Kelly, Founder of Kelco Industries, alongside Ronald Reagan, 40th President of the United States.
A Legacy of Innovation: Engineering Excellence Since 1905
Kelco Industries traces its roots back to 1905, when U.S. Flex began operations in San Francisco, designing and manufacturing flexible metal components for industrial applications. Over the decades, Kelco expanded through strategic acquisitions, industry-leading innovations, and a commitment to high-quality, American-made manufacturing.
From supplying aerospace control grips for military aircraft to providing custom-engineered solutions for Fortune 500 companies, Kelco has played a crucial role in shaping the future of motion control, fluid handling, and high-performance materials.
1905
Flex-Weld Founded
Began in San Francisco, CA as U.S. Flex. A designer and manufacturer of flexible, ready-to-use materials.
1932
Guardian Electric Manufacturing Founded
Founded in Chicago, IL. Serving the burgeoning aeronautical industry by providing quality flight control grips and switches.
1970
Advanced Molding Technologies Founded
Began in the early 1970s in Schaumburg, IL. A state-of-the-art company equipped to design and deliver custom engineered solutions.
1975
Western Consolidated Technologies Founded
Began in Fremont, IN. With 40 years of delivering the best, most cost-effective seals to fit customer needs.
Proudly Family-Owned
& American-Made
Unlike massive corporations where clients become just another number, Kelco Industries is a family-owned business, offering personalized service, deep engineering collaboration, and fast decision-making. Our CEO continues the legacy established by his father, who worked closely with industry and government leaders—including former U.S. President Ronald Reagan—to advance American manufacturing.
For over a century, we’ve been trusted by Fortune 500 companies, defense contractors, and cutting-edge innovators—not just as a parts supplier, but as an engineering partner delivering custom solutions for the world’s most demanding industries.
