Celebrating 25 years of Eclipse Automation and where factory automation is going

Author:
Tracey Thomas
Content Communications Specialist

In 2026, Eclipse Automation marks 25 years of precision, performance, and partnership — a milestone that celebrates innovation, growth, and the people who made it all possible.

From our humble beginnings in Cambridge, Ontario, to a global presence across Canada, the U.S., and Europe, Eclipse has helped manufacturers around the world build what the world depends on, improving speed, reliability, and performance across production lines.

“For 25 years, we’ve helped factories around the world unlock the benefits of factory automation,” said Steve Mai, Chief Executive Officer of Eclipse Automation. “Today, we enter a new era — driving the convergence of physical and digital systems to transform how factories operate, compete, and grow.”

The early years of Eclipse established the values that continue to guide us today: precision, accountability, and innovation. These remain the foundation of our vision and mission, even as we evolve to meet new technologies, industries, and global challenges.

Key Takeaways

From local roots to global reach

Founded in 2001 by Steve Mai, Todd Ronald, and Richard Bula, Eclipse began with a shared belief that automation could be built differently, with engineering excellence and partnership at its core.

From a small facility on Bishop Street, Eclipse quickly earned a reputation for solving complex production challenges through vertically integrated solutions that shorten timelines, control cost, and ensure consistent quality.

As demand for advanced automation grew, expansion followed: first to Sheldon Drive, then to our current headquarters at 130 Thompson Drive in Cambridge. What began as a local innovator soon evolved into a global systems partner, delivering solutions that power industries where performance matters most, like life sciences, automotive, energy, consumer goods, food production, and more.

Whether building machines that assemble life-saving medical devices, equipment that enables electric vehicle production, or tooling that supports renewable energy, our systems are designed to perform under pressure — and keep performing.

“When our machines run well, products are made better, faster, and safer,” says Michael Fisher President, Eclipse Automation. “That’s the difference we bring to every partnership.”

Today, Eclipse partners with organizations across industries, helping to produce or support automation efforts everything from life-changing medical devices and equipment to electric vehicle batteries to small modular reactors (SMRs). With every build, we continue to push the boundaries of our capabilities, maintaining the highest standards of precision, compliance, and customer satisfaction.

Momentum through people and community

With more than half its workforce based in Cambridge, Eclipse is proud to be part of the Cambridge region’s world-class innovative ecosystem, one defined by its deep talent pool, academic excellence, and collaborative spirit.

We draw strength from partnerships with post-secondary institutions like the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Conestoga College, where co-op programs and apprenticeships connect students to real-world experience and long-term careers in automation and advanced manufacturing.

This focus on talent development ensures that the next generation of engineers, technicians, and builders continues to thrive right here in our community.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Eclipse pivoted part of its operations to produce 130 million PPE units annually, donating over 1.5 million surgical masks to local small businesses — proof that engineering innovation can directly serve community needs.

We also actively engage in volunteering, mentorship, and education partnerships that help shape the next wave of manufacturing leaders.

“The Cambridge Region offers everything we need to grow: Collaboration, creativity, and a pipeline of incredible talent,” says Steve Mai. “It’s a place where innovation and manufacturing move at the same or at breakneck speed pace.”

Our commitment to people, performance, and partnership has earned Eclipse recognition across Canada and beyond.

Over several years, Eclipse Automation has been recognized among Canada’s Best Managed Companies, achieving Platinum Status after eight consecutive years on the list, as well as the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist award for Steve Mai (2019).

Other honours include the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce Spirit & Chair’s Awards (2021, 2022), the Employer of Distinction from Conestoga College, and multiple appearances on PROFIT’s 500 Ranking.

These awards reflect the dedication of our teams and the trust of our clients. More importantly, they underscore the impact our work delivers: From enabling cleaner energy production to advancing medical innovation and industrial sustainability.

The next chapter: Forward momentum

As we celebrate 25 years of Eclipse Automation, we extend our sincere thanks to our employees, clients, suppliers, and community partners who continue to shape our journey.

From concept to completion, from one facility to a global footprint — every achievement has been built together. And as technology continues to change and adapt to the world’s needs, our purpose remains the same: to build what the world depends on.

Join the celebration

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we thank our employees, clients, and partners for being part of our journey. Over the next year, we’re celebrating milestones, experiences, and insights gleaned from our industry experts and colleagues.

Whether it is Lessons Learned and presented by our industry experts on the 25th of every month, special announcements, or events, we’re excited to share these with you on our website and social media.

Follow along and share your Eclipse story using #EclipseAutomation25 — because every milestone we reach, we reach together.