Powering progress

Global innovation meets small-town impact; see how Franklin Electric is fueling jobs, innovation and community growth

In the heart of Wilburton, a quiet hum of progress resonates from Franklin Electric’s sprawling facility. Known globally for its innovative pumping systems and submersible motors, Franklin Electric has not only rooted itself in this small community but also nurtured a legacy of excellence, innovation and giving back.

Franklin Electric began its journey in Oklahoma in 1979 by purchasing the Wilburton facility to expand its operations. By 1981, the plant launched its first production line, producing 6-inch submersible motors. Over the decades, it has evolved into a vital hub of manufacturing, producing everything from surface and submersible pumping systems to advanced motor controls.

“Our distributor partners and customers around the world trust the products we manufacture here in Oklahoma,” says Jeff Carnell, plant manager at Wilburton. “It’s known for being some of the most advanced and dependable in the industry.”

Adapting to industry demands has been a hallmark of Franklin Electric’s success. In 2024, the Wilburton facility introduced the “Minetuff Series” — large electric submersible dewatering products designed for harsh environments such as mines and construction sites. Alongside this product innovation, the plant has integrated automation into its production lines, using robots and collaborative robots, or “cobots,” to enhance precision and operational efficiency.

“We’re constantly looking for better ways to turn inputs into quality products,” Carnell explains. “This forward-thinking approach is key to our long-term success.”

For Franklin Electric, reliable energy is essential to maintaining its rigorous production schedule, which runs two shifts four days a week from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. with one additional day of occasional overtime. Kiamichi Electric Cooperative plays a critical role in ensuring the facility’s smooth operations.

“Kiamichi Electric has been an exceptional partner,” Carnell notes. “Their infrastructure improvements over the years have minimized power issues, helping us deliver products on time.”

As one of the largest employers in the region, Franklin Electric plays a key role in the local economy, something Kiamichi Electric Cooperative recognizes as part of its broader mission.

“Providing reliable, affordable power to every member — from family farms to major manufacturers like Franklin Electric — is at the core of what we do,” says Brett Orme, manager at Kiamichi Electric. “Businesses like Franklin Electric drive economic growth, create jobs and strengthen our communities. We’re proud to support their success because when they thrive, the entire region benefits.”

Beyond business, Franklin Electric’s impact extends deeply into the local community. Through the Franklin Electric Charitable and Educational Foundation, the company supports organizations such as the United Way, Boys & Girls Club and Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Locally, employees donate time and resources to schools, food banks, nursing homes and community events.

In 2023, the Wilburton facility earned the Corporate Excellence in Safety Award, marking over 544,000 hours worked without a single incident. The award’s monetary prize was donated to five local volunteer fire departments.

“Giving back is very important to us,” says Carnell. “It’s how we show our appreciation to the community that has supported us for so many years.”

As the largest employer within a 45-mile radius, Franklin Electric provides not only jobs but also skills training and economic growth. The Wilburton facility’s FranklinTECH training center attracts visitors from across the country, further boosting the local economy.

“We invest in our people, which strengthens the community’s workforce,” Carnell emphasizes.

For Carnell, leading the Wilburton plant is more than just a job — it’s a passion fueled by daily challenges and teamwork. Having been employed with Franklin Electric for 19 years, he reflects on his journey with pride, from starting as a manufacturing engineer to managing the worldwide company’s second-largest facility.

“What makes this role fulfilling is  being part of an incredible team that’s committed to building high-quality products,” Carnell shares. “Knowing we’re making a difference for our customers keeps us motivated every day.”

As Franklin Electric continues to innovate and invest in Wilburton, its impact in Oklahoma is already well established — fueling jobs, innovation and community growth. With a firm grip on its local roots and an eye on global progress, the company proves that success is not just about making great products; it’s about making a difference.

Get to know Franklin Electric

• Headquartered in Fort Wayne, Indiana
• Franklin Electric manufactures pumps, motors, drives, and controls. These are used or across a wide variety of agricultural, commercial, industrial, municipal, and residential applications.
• The core values, living safely and respecting people, resonate throughout its business model.
• Quality, Availability, Service, Innovation and Cost are the “Key Factors for Success” that guide every Franklin Electric employee.