​Cherokee Nation Industries was formed in Stilwell, Okla., in 1969 for the specific purpose of providing meaningful employment to the area.

Production of relay switches for Western Electric Company began on June 15, 1969, with a total workforce of eight employees.

CNI's reputation for quality work continued to grow. IBM cited CNI for excellence in electronic and electrical manufacturing. The company also received superior service awards from Boeing, Lockheed Martin, NASA and other major companies. This reputation, coupled with additional production capabilities, brought new opportunity.

In the late 1970s, CNI broadened its market base into aerospace and defense. During the 1980s, the main focus was on customers such as Boeing, United Defense, Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics, providing them with wiring harnesses and cable assemblies.