Private investment firm Gardner Standard has acquired Shadin Avionics from The Wright Group. Based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, Shadin has a history of designing, manufacturing, and providing support services for fuel flow systems, engine trend monitoring, altitude management systems, air data computers and other instrumentation for turbine, piston and rotor aircraft for the military, general and corporate aviation markets. More recently, it has redefined itself as a leader in avionics integration and data management solutions with its Avionics Interface Systems (AIS) and Volta product lines. These products are designed to simplify aircraft modernisation, and will support future generations of conventional and electric aircraft.

AIS customisable data convertors utilise microprocessor-based electronics and proprietary configurable converter platform software to enable aircraft systems to seamlessly communicate. AIS products have been installed on aircraft ranging from military C-130 Hercules, CH-47 Chinook and A-10 Warthog to Textron Aviation's King Air and Bell's 412 helicopter. AIS products also have been installed on systems for Boeing and Airbus commercial aircraft.

The Volta series is a software-free product line that complements the highly successful AIS product line and is designed to address the expanding network of aircraft sensors and systems. As a plug-and-play solution, Volta products enable new cockpit technology to monitor sensors or switches throughout the aircraft through distributed architecture without costly upgrades to primary aircraft systems.

Led by CEO Daniel Nelson, Shadin is growing rapidly and is positioned to continue that success with its recent move to a 20,000 sq ft design and manufacturing facility in Eden Prairie. “I value and appreciate The Wright Group's support during its ownership for the last 16 years. I would specifically like to thank the late Robert Wright for believing in our business and enabling us to build the infrastructure necessary for our success to date and the growth we expect to achieve going forward,” says Nelson. “At the same time, we are eager to join forces with the great team at Gardner Standard. Combined with the strong Shadin management team and a valuable product portfolio, we anticipate an exciting journey ahead.”

Michael Healy, managing member of Gardner Standard, adds: “We are thrilled to partner with Dan and the other members of the Shadin team. The combination of Shadin's proprietary technology and engineering expertise helps customers modernise aircraft quickly and efficiently. We are excited to see what the Shadin team accomplishes in the years ahead.”