Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
Newsroom
Oct 1, 2026
SEL Expands Manufacturing Operations in West Lafayette
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) will invest $25 million to expand manufacturing operations at its West Lafayette facility, increasing production capacity for recloser controls by more than 35% and creating approximately 130 new career opportunities. The project supports growing global demand for technologies that improve the reliability and resilience of electric power systems.The expansion will take place within the SEL facility at 1838 Indiana 26 in the Purdue Discovery Park District, creating a more vertically integrated manufacturing operation through the addition of printed circuit board assembly capabilities.“This expansion strengthens our ability to serve customers,” said Leith Sorenson, senior vice president of manufacturing. “By increasing manufacturing capacity in West Lafayette and bringing more of the production process under one roof, we’re improving efficiency, creating new career opportunities and positioning SEL to meet growing demand for our products and solutions.”The company will add surface mount technology, electronic assembly and conformal coat production lines to the operation. These new capabilities will enable SEL to complete more manufacturing processes at the location, increasing efficiency and simplifying product flow from board assembly through final assembly and testing. The expansion will support increased production of recloser controls, which help electric utilities improve service reliability and reduce outage durations by automatically detecting and responding to power system faults.This project is part of a broader manufacturing growth strategy that includes recent investments in Idaho, Indiana, North Carolina and Washington. These investments will increase production capacity and strengthen supply chain resilience within the United States.“Growing demand for reliable electricity, grid modernization, data centers and critical infrastructure is driving increased investment in power system technologies worldwide,” said Dave Whitehead, president. “These projects reflect our commitment to delivering the products customers need, when they need them, while maintaining the quality and reliability that define SEL.”The West Lafayette project is expected to be completed in March 2027.New career opportunities will include direct production roles and positions that support manufacturing operations. SEL invests heavily in employee training and professional development, creating pathways for long-term career growth in manufacturing, engineering, leadership and more.SEL has more than 800 open positions globally. To learn more, visit www.selinc.com/careers.