How a small group of pioneers transformed the wire harness industry
The Wiring Harness Manufacturer’s Association (WHMA) is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and a shared commitment to industry excellence. Since its start in the early 1990s, WHMA has grown into a vital pillar for American manufacturers of wiring harnesses, cable assemblies, and their suppliers.
“WHMA began as a small group of community-minded individuals who dedicated themselves to improving our trade,” says Joe DeMan, former WHMA chair. “The focus was to create a leadership group to help educate and connect individuals who recognized their product’s vital role in the electronics industry. Though competitors in the field, they became partners dedicated to the growth and sustainability of our industry. That sense of partnership continues to this day.”
The Dawn of a Vision
More than 30 years ago, a determined group of senior executives from wire harness and cable assembly companies launched an ambitious outreach effort by calling approximately 25 manufacturing shops across the Midwest. Their mission was to unite the industry under one banner, fostering a community built on shared knowledge and mutual growth. That vision came to life in 1993 with the formation of WHMA and nine founding board members.
According to Norm Sagon, a WHMA founder and member of the first board of directors, hosted its first Annual Conference that same year in Novi, Michigan, where approximately 50 industry professionals gathered. “We gathered to establish a board, by-laws, and member and technical committees,” Norm says. “It marked the start of valuable first-hand networking.”
Building Momentum with Leadership and Support
Under the leadership of Executive Director Andy Larsen, WHMA experienced significant growth, with its membership base doubling from 90 to 180 members over the next decade. The Annual Global Leadership Summit, WHMA’s cornerstone event launched in 1993 and has since become a highly anticipated winter tradition, offering exceptional opportunities for networking, professional development, and industry inspiration.
“The wire harness and cable assembly industry was lacking an association, and the formation of WHMA provided a great opportunity for manufacturer and supplier owner-member companies to contribute while exchanging valuable hands-on information,” Norm says.
The association’s influence further expanded in 1994 when Fred Knaack launched Wiring Harness News. With WHMA’s backing, WHN quickly became the leading source for industry insights, amplifying WHMA’s voice and reinforcing its role as a central resource for the wire harness and cable assembly community.
A Partnership Elevating Standards
In 1998, WHMA and IPC took a transformative step forward by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalizing a collaboration that continues to benefit the industry today. This partnership resulted in the development of the IPC/WHMA-A-620 standard, a critical document for ensuring quality and workmanship in wire harness and cable assembly manufacturing.
“The partnership between IPC and WHMA unites the strengths of both organizations to advance industry standards, education, and advocacy in the wire harness and cable assembly industry,” says Dave Bergman, WHMA executive director. “Revised and refined over the years, these standards remain invaluable tools for WHMA members and the industry as a whole.”
Honoring Dedication and Excellence
WHMA has always valued those who go above and beyond. The prestigious “Bud and Gus Award,” created in 1997 in memory of industry pioneers Bud Melugin and Gus Knaack, honors members who embody exceptional service and dedication. Award winners are celebrated for their tireless efforts and contributions, showcasing the spirit that fuels WHMA’s growth.
In 2018, the award was expanded to include the Volunteer Excellence category, further recognizing outstanding contributions to the industry. The WHMA Hall of Fame Award, established in 2019, honors individuals who have made significant, lasting impacts on the industry while exemplifying WHMA’s mission and values. Recent recipients include Doug Chowning (2024), Micah Durham (2023), and current WHMA Chair Parker Garrett (2022).
The newest accolade, the Hall of Builders Award was introduced in 2022 and acknowledges individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing their companies and the industry.
Remembering Loren Smith
Loren Smith, a WHMA founding member, left an indelible mark on the association and the industry. As the owner of Blue Valley Capital, his expertise and market insights were invaluable, and his signature humor and warm smile made a lasting impression.
“Loren was a pioneering leader in the wire harness and cable assembly industry,” Norm says. “He owned the manufacturing company MWC, was a founding member of WHMA, and later established Blue Valley Capital, a unique consulting and brokerage firm dedicated to serving the industry while prioritizing the personal livelihood needs of business owners.” Loren’s philosophy— “Make some money, take care of others and have fun doing it”—continues to inspire WHMA members today.
A Legacy Continued
From its grassroots beginnings to its current position as a leader in the wire harness and cable assembly industry, WHMA members have shown perseverance, camaraderie, and a commitment to progress.
With approximately 250 members today, WHMA leads the industry by championing growth, education, and advocacy for all its members. “WHMA membership has provided our company the opportunity to share ideas, discuss challenges and innovate through networking opportunities,” says Jason Zoubek, CEO of Absolute Quality Manufacturing in Brighton, Minnesota. “We have built relationships with colleagues, competitors, and industry specialists. Those relationships have been invaluable to our organization.”
By Brittany Martin, Marketing Manager, I-Connect007
