On July 4, 1962, Vernon Plating opened its doors in Woodside, Queens, as a bold venture set up by two ambitious founders.

Over the years, the company earned its reputation as a reliable partner for aerospace, defense, and other high-stakes industries. In the 1970s, Vernon Plating moved into its current 11,000 sq. ft. Woodside facility, where its legacy has been shaped by a culture of problem-solving and precision.

Kenneth Abrahami, one of the original founders, became the face of the company, running it with a rigorous commitment to quality. For decades, his leadership inspired the team and defined Vernon Plating’s reputation as an innovator in the field. Even after his retirement and recent passing, his ethos continues to guide the company’s operations.

Ryan is a second-generation employee of Vernon Plating. His father, Raymond, joined the company in 1981, and growing up, Ryan recalls hearing countless stories of Abrahami’s unyielding dedication. “Ken treated this business like his child,” Ryan shares. “That same passion still drives everything we do today.”

“Our work has gone places—literally, into space.”

Vernon Plating’s history is marked by groundbreaking achievements. In the 1980s and 1990s, the company contributed to the first generations of NAVSTAR global positioning system (GPS) satellites—a partnership that required development of innovative plating techniques to meet rigorous U.S. Air Force specifications. Those satellites ultimately far exceeded their expected lifespans, a testament to the precision and durability of the work. As Ryan explains, “We were the sole source for Silver plating on those early generation satellites. We pioneered new methods to meet their standards, and that acumen for problem-solving still manifests itself here to this day.”

Today, up to 90% of Vernon Plating’s work supports space-related programs, with components sent to NASA and other aerospace organizations. Recent collaborations include the DART program, which successfully tested asteroid redirection, and the Europa Clipper, designed to explore Jupiter’s moon. These projects rely on the company’s expertise in electroplating, which both enhances resistance to radiation and corrosion of spacecraft components, and increases electrical conductivity necessary for the tuning and transmission of radio frequencies. “We take pride in knowing our work will be in space,” Ryan says. “Even the smallest parts play such a critical role in these missions.”

“Our size means we can work closely with customers, remain flexible, and find creative solutions tailored to their specific needs.”

As Vernon Plating enters its seventh decade, it faces both challenges and opportunities. The company is known for its hands-on, customer-focused approach, working closely with clients to satisfy their unique plating requirements. “When you’re our customer, we become a part of your team,” Ryan emphasizes. “From prototypes to production, we’re there to assist every step of the way.” Clients appreciate this combination of expertise and dedication, and Vernon Plating takes pride in both its long-standing relationships and the many more recent relationships it has fostered.

Despite its unwavering focus on quality and robust AS9003 quality management system, the company has sometimes been asked about obtaining other expensive and time-consuming certifications. “We encourage potential clients to audit us and assess our facility themselves. Our protocol often meets or exceeds their requirements, and many clients go out of their way to partner with us, regardless of certificates,” Ryan says. However, limited resources and a lean team of nine have made it challenging to pursue other accreditations, such as Nadcap.

The company is currently focused on a five-year plan to ensure its future is driven by a mix of experienced professionals and new talent. “We’re small but strong,” Ryan reflects. “We combine decades of knowledge with fresh ideas, all aimed at doing things the right way and exceeding customer expectations.”

From GPS satellites to cutting-edge space missions, Vernon Plating’s legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and relentless commitment to quality. As the company navigates the future, one thing remains clear: its reputation for problem solving will continue to set it apart from the competition.