
SMS History
Founded in 1983 by Les Huntsman and George Kee, Special Mine Services (SMS) initially provided electrical cable distribution and repair services to the coal mining industry in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. The company quickly expanded its customer base and product offerings, becoming a distributor for a variety of products related to heavy industrial and mining industries. By the late 1980s, SMS ventured into manufacturing and distributing electrical connectors, developing a complete line of molded neoprene connectors for the mining, tunneling, and entertainment industries. In 2004, SMS transitioned to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), becoming 100% employee-owned. The company has continuously expanded its services, including the addition of machining services in 2013 and fabrication and welding services in 2017, further solidifying its position as a comprehensive provider for the mining and related industries.
SMS product range

Special Mine Services manufactures a comprehensive line of synthetic rubber single-pole, multi-pole, and quick-lock connectors, engineered for interchangeability with other major brands. These connectors are designed for various applications, including mining, entertainment, and government sectors, and are known for their ease of assembly and water-tight connections. SMS’s product capabilities extend from small single-pole to large round and oval multi-pole connectors, catering to a wide range of cable sizes and types. The connectors are CSA Certified and UL Listed, with ongoing certifications for CE and UKCA marks. In addition to connectors, SMS offers machining, fabrication, and welding services, supporting a diverse range of customer needs from their facilities in the United States and through strategic distribution partnerships across North America.
From The Store
Why SMS
Special Mine Services stands out as a leader in the industrial electrical connector market, serving the mining, tunneling, heavy equipment, portable power, and entertainment industries for almost four decades. As an employee-owned company, SMS prides itself on innovation, quality, and customer service. The company’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship combined with state-of-the-art technology ensures the delivery of superior products and services. SMS’s in-house team of mechanical and electrical engineers enables continuous product development to meet emergent customer needs, and its vertical integration strategy allows for quality control throughout the production process and the ability to tailor products to specific customer requirements, all while maintaining reasonable costs and short production lead times.
Where to buy SMS Equipment products
Carroll Technologies supplies a broad range of mining equipment specifically tailored to your needs, building on more than 40 years of industry experience.
Post-purchase Carroll Technologies offers a complete installation, servicing and repair service with 24/7 technical support.