Automation is an emergent factor for most Northwest aerospace manufacturers. Luttrell observed that L & E would need a higher and repeat volume program to implement robotic welding. He said,“ You can imagine what to do; you have to have the dexterity to hold and twist, and the tooling process has to be so succinct in high volume, repeat projects; it can be hundreds of thousands to get that going, with better robot dexterity and processes.” He explained that the precision welding they conduct is made for“ mission critical and flight safety critical systems, molds, and structures.”
Luttrell said they are always looking realistically at AI for high-volume repetitive projects, which makes the most sense to his team—“ to use AI and other technologies to make a business case for them.”
The Quality Manager, Gourav Partap Singh, also known as“ Gavy,” grew up in India and earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He joined L & E in 2021 and began as a logistics associate in shipping and receiving. Since then, he has progressed rapidly in quality assurance management. Singh said he enjoys working with Luttrell and described him as a coach to the team. He appreciates
Luttrell’ s direct communication style because,“ If you are doing something wrong, you should be notified; that’ s what a leader does.” However, he noted that Luttrell takes it a step further and continues to follow up to ensure that problems or issues are resolved.
The business relocated from Lynnwood to Everett, WA in 2024, occupying 31,000 square feet of manufacturing space and 10,000 square feet of administrative space. They bought an existing facility, which they retrofitted with new walls, lights, and ceilings. Luttrell said they made it look“ clean and shiny,” demonstrating their commitment to providing a positive work environment. They are also investing in a new employee break room, fostering a sense of optimism and positivity.
Luttrell is a pragmatist in that he acknowledges the current workforce challenges and notes that when he grew up, he had a welding program in his high school, which is no longer the norm. He said L & E will hire inexperienced people and train them with their system“ as long as you are hungry and willing.” However, he noted that things move quickly, and it is a physically demanding job.
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2025 ISSUE NO. 46 27