From Edison’s Lab
to Global Proving Grounds:

Since 1892, when H. Ward Leonard invented the electronic motor control that transformed modern electrical distribution systems, our company has been a trusted name in defense and industry. Our founder was one of the electrical industry’s great pioneers. A graduate of M.I.T., H. Ward Leonard served on Thomas Edison’s engineering staff, and had over 100 patents credited to him. When cars went from candle-powered headlights to electric, Ward Leonard was there. During the Spanish-American War, when the U.S. Navy guns changed from hydraulic and steam-powered movement to more-precise electric aiming, Ward Leonard led the way with, using the world’s first multiple voltage system.

Throughout our history, Ward Leonard has been dedicated to advancing the state-of-the-art in electric motors, generators, power control components and systems. We have played a key role in the development of electrical equipment such as motor controllers, AC/DC generators, AC/DC motors, and related rotary and linear electrical, electro-mechanical, and mechanical equipment.  We are a well-known and established manufacturer of high quality AC and DC electric motor controls, as well as rotating motor products and power generation equipment.

Ward Leonard has been a critical component/system provider on key defense programs such as CVN, DDG, SSN, SSBN, CG, TPQ-37/47, and more.  Our vast experience with motor controllers, motors, generators and power systems for submarines and surface vessels has proved invaluable in other areas, such as land based radar AZ/EL motors, nuclear power plants, municipal rail systems and electric vehicles.

Today, our Advanced Development team’s work with permanent magnet technology, network-centric motor controls, and low noise technology not only increases the reliability of our electrical systems, but also decreases maintenance and personnel requirements, while reducing size, noise and weight – all critical to the requirements of today’s military.

Our unique blend of design, engineering, and manufacturing expertise allows for intimate customer involvement in all stages of production – ensuring that our customers are at the forefront of military and industrial technology. We have the ability to provide complete motor, generator, and control systems, while retaining the flexibility to integrate our products with other manufacturer’s equipment.