By Ryan Hecht, Greater Arvada Chamber VP of Marketing and Communications
Editor’s note: See bottom of post for details on the Member of the Month selection process and to nominate your business.
This month, the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce is proud to spotlight Kratos Industries, a fast-growing advanced manufacturing company that started in a garage just six years ago and now employs more than 300 people across the Denver metro area. From its earliest days in Arvada to its recent acquisition by a global leader, Kratos has proven to be an innovation-driven employer helping shape the region’s economic future.
From Garage Startup to Industry Leader
Kratos manufactures low-voltage switchboards and medium-voltage switchgear used in critical electrical infrastructure. From hospitals and schools to data centers and water treatment plants, this equipment helps keep the essential systems communities depend on running safely and reliably. A key differentiator is its vertically integrated supply chain: Kratos manufactures nearly all of the metal used in its assemblies in-house, allowing the team to move quickly and scale efficiently in a rapidly expanding market.
Vice President of Strategy Tom Huseas helped launch the company in a garage just six years ago. “Growing a company from a garage to 325 people and knowing we provide for that many families is very rewarding.”
A Major Milestone: Joining Legrand
Kratos recently reached a significant milestone with its acquisition by Legrand, a global electrical and digital infrastructure leader. The transition expands opportunities for employees while positioning the Kratos brand as a long-term platform for growth within a global organization.
Vice President & General Manager Rowan Koons highlighted how quickly the impact was felt:
“The day after we closed, we went over and toured a 175,000-square-foot facility and verbally agreed to take over the lease to increase production. That’s not something we could have done on our own.”
The partnership strengthens Kratos’ ability to scale operations, expand facilities, and continue meeting growing demand driven in part by the rapid expansion of the data center market.
Rooted in Arvada
Even as the company grows nationally, Arvada remains central to Kratos’ success. Tom and Rowan emphasized the importance of workforce access and strong partnerships with the City and business community.
Tom pointed in particular to housing availability as a meaningful improvement supporting workforce growth:
“Ten years ago, that was my biggest gripe: we just didn’t have people close enough. Now we’ve done a good job in Arvada to make sure there is more affordable-level housing for the majority of our staff that we need to pull in.”
He added that the City continues to be a strong partner as the company expands.
Advice for Entrepreneurs
Reflecting on the realities of building a company from the ground up, Tom shared this advice for new business owners:
“Entrepreneurs need to realize that their job is to take risks that others won’t. If you aren’t willing to take some pretty massive risks, it’s a tough road.”
As a member of the Chamber and investor in the B.O.L.D. 2026 initiative, Tom says he values staying informed about city and county initiatives that impact workforce, infrastructure, and long-term planning. Those connections help ensure the company remains aligned with the broader business community as it continues growing across the region.
Kratos Industries
The Greater Arvada Chamber Member of the Month is nominated and selected by our Business Services team. The Member of the Month recognizes active members that are deeply engaged in the Chamber’s programs and leadership; celebrating an important milestone, and/or; have a compelling story worthy of a spotlight to our community. Please submit nominations for your business or non-profit at this link.
0 Comments