Collins

Founded in 1933 by Arthur A. Collins in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Collins Radio Company was renowned for its pioneering radio communication technology. Initially focused on shortwave radios, it gained prominence by supporting Rear Admiral Byrd’s Antarctic expedition and later became a major supplier of military radio and navigation equipment during WWII. The company played a key role in NASA’s Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. Acquired by Rockwell International in 1973, Collins Radio evolved into Rockwell Collins and eventually became part of Collins Aerospace in 2018, continuing its legacy in advanced communication and avionics.