OEM Controls History

• OEM Controls, Inc. is a manufacturer of electro-hydraulic controllers and joysticks for industrial and mobile equipment. OEM was founded in 1966 by S. Brian Simons, a University of Connecticut alumnus (January 1960), its Owner and President.

• During the early years, the company designed and manufactured rotary switches for the pivot irrigation market.

• In 1978, OEM developed and introduced electronics for electro-hydraulic valves. The company’s product line now included products for use on aerial work platforms, welding machines, mining equipment, and construction equipment.

• OEM continued to expand throughout the years, and in 1979 its main headquarters and production facility was relocated to a 25,000 square foot facility in Shelton, CT. This is the same location from which it currently operates. During the 1980s, the company specialized in electronic controllers, microprocessor electronics, and fiber optic systems.

• During the 1990s, OEM went through a phase of growth and success, expanding to over 250 employees. Sam Simons joined the company in 1990, followed by Keith Simons in 1991. Sam received his Masters in Business Administration from UConn in 1995. In 1993, OEM expanded its facility by attaching an adjoining building to the existing Shelton location. An additional 12,000 square feet was also added to the Shelton facility in 1997.

• During this period of growth, microprocessor technology was on the rise. OEM developed third and fourth generation microprocessor systems. These systems were developed for use with work platforms, fire trucks, forestry machines, or snow removal equipment. The two-wire design of the system added functionality, reduced wiring harnesses and simplified troubleshooting.

• From 2000 to 2010, OEM developed its fifth generation state of the art microprocessor, the CAN-Bus System. CAN-Bus systems are used by the automotive industry and are being applied to construction so that electrical equipment and controllers can be linked to exchange information. Also developed has been the line of ruggedly-designed Hall Effect controllers. As in the past, OEM’s major areas of business remain in work platforms, mobile, and mining.

• In 2001, OEM applied its expertise with custom hardened electronics, and extensive industry knowledge, to develop the products and systems of what is now known as the Data Delivery division. Since that time, OEM has been providing equipment and fleet owners with ways to collect valuable equipment and operational information via automated and paperless technology.