A generator control unit (GCU) having thermal control includes a GCU housing having a first side and a second side. A printed wiring board (PWB) is within the GCU housing between the first side and the second side. The PWB includes a component side that faces a first side of the GCU housing. At least one through via is positioned through a thickness of the PWB. At least one boss is positioned on the component side of the PWB. The at least one boss extends from a component of the PWB to the first side of the GCU housing.