Aviation lighting specialist Whelen Engineering Company has completed an acquisition and spin-off with LoPresti Aviation. Whelen's aviation division and LoPresti both have lighting expertise and will be combined into a single organisation named Whelen Aerospace Technologies, or WAT.

Founded in Sebastian, Florida in 1991 LoPresti Aviation is a specialist in aviation lighting and aircraft speed modifications. The company has a diverse portfolio of customers and holds more than 500 FAA STCs

Whelen Engineering has designed and manufactured warning lights, white illumination lighting, sirens, controllers, and high-powered warning systems for the automotive, aviation and mass notification industries since 1952.

It hopes that the acquisition of LoPresti will give it a strong platform to continue developing lighting on a global scale by combining the strengths of both companies to design, engineer and manufacture a diversified and innovative product line for customers.

“WAT enables both companies to combine resources and deliver distinct technologies to the market,” says Whelen president and CEO George Whelen. “This transaction allows us to harness our collective resources, innovation capabilities and market positions to better serve the industry globally.”

LoPresti CEO Tyler Wheeler adds: “Through WAT, we will strengthen our portfolio in aircraft lighting applications and composite structures. This acquisition will be highly beneficial to OEMs, as well as to the end user. Maintaining the highest level of customer service is the highest priority for us as we continue growing as one.” Tyler will join WAT as CEO.