SPONSORED CONTENT
Chuck Smith, President
SUMMER 2022: 45
GUARDIAN MANUFACTURING
CHUCK SMITH AND STEVE SMITH
It all started thirty years ago as a startup company in Rockledge with
a small breathalyzer interlock device used in cars that measures a
driver’s breath alcohol level. If the measured breath alcohol level is
too high, the car can’t be started. Guardian produced over 35,000 units.
Today that company, Guardian Manufacturing, now in Cocoa, is a
major player in the nation’s aerospace industry.
Over the years brothers Chuck and Steve Smith have grown the
company from three employees to nearly 80 today. They work
with NASA and aerospace companies on nearly all launches from
the Kennedy Space Center and Canaveral Space Force Base. Their
products are also involved in launches from the Vandenberg launch
complex in California.
Guardian produces a number of space related products. Many involve
complex sensors that are used around launch pads and payloads to
measure hazardous gases to insure there are no leaks prior to launch.
During the Space Shuttle era they monitored the pressurization in the
crew compartment. They also built equipment that measures water
intrusion on the Space Shuttle heat shield tiles.
Their major project at the moment is
involvement in building a new launch
pad and associated ground support
equipment for Blue Origin rockets.
Their systems are also used on Atlas
and Delta IV rockets, including service
tower platform controls and swing
arm controls. Clients include nearly all
the major aerospace companies.
Their work covers engineering,
technology and electrical systems.
“We’re involved in all aspects of
ground support,” Steve said.
They estimate over 60% of their
business involves the aerospace
industry. They also work with
entertainment businesses, the U.S.
military, automotive, agriculture, and
many more.
The brothers are both engineering
alumni of the University of Mississippi.
Their father was the Chair and
Professor Emeritus of the university’s
engineering school. “I will always
treasure the memories of having my
dad as my professor,” Chuck said.
Chuck’s biggest thrill is being able to “showcase doing our part to
support the space industry” “I think that’s a big deal.”
Steve, who oversees most of the aerospace work, says watching
launches “makes the hair stand up on the back of my neck.” He takes
pride in knowing “all our work went into making it a success.”
Guardian Manufacturing is very much a family business. Two
generations of the Smith Family are actively involved in the business.
ON THE SPACE COAST
SINCE 1993
Steve Smith, Vice President
321.631.4580 support@guardianmfg.com guardianmfg.com 2971–A Oxbow Circle, Cocoa, FL 32926
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER
CELEBRATES 60 YEARS
/www.guardianmfg.com
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