History of MASON Controls

Before World War II, Howard Mason developed a true positive-action, very reliable trim switch and founded Mason Electric Company. The company went on to manufacture grips, control wheels, and high-current switches for aircraft as well as very high-current, motor-operated switches for missiles, submarines, space vehicles, and missile launchers.

Our first grip appeared on the P-80 (later called F-80) in the late 1940s, and following units were used on early production models of experimental jet and rocket aircraft, including the X-15, A-1, B-58, F-86, and others. Our first control wheel appeared on the North American Saberliner, later on the C-5, C-130, Kingair, Queenair, Jetstar, SD3-60, Westwind II, and Gulfstream II. In addition early Bell and Vertol Helicopters used MASON grips, as did the Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne.

Mr. Mason’s personal commitment to innovative engineering continues today. MASON products are now accepted worldwide as the leaders in the field, and our grips, control wheels and communication technology can be found in virtually every military and commercial aircraft. As we finish the first decade of the 21st Century, we support the most cutting-edge aircraft, land vehicle, and rotorcraft programs, including the F-22 Raptor, Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), and F-117.