Hydrostatic Testing Cell
Today, a big piece of their pie comes from government contracts, but they also work for manufacturers.
Working alongside him is his son, Michael Tomson, who has experience in manufacturing, fabrication, and site management. He started as a journeyman machinist, with training provided by the Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee( AJAC) and South Seattle Community College, and Project Management Professional( PMP) training, and now works as a project manager.
He said their core skill at J Lawrence is,“ Providing solutions that best fit our customers’ needs— whether that’ s tooling for commercial aerospace, design and build support for ADPs and the space industry, or commodities for the DOW.” Most of their work comes from the Navy and ship ports, but they also collaborate with Air Force bases. J Lawrence leverages contractors effectively, using their knowledge of suppliers ' strengths to award projects to the right partners.
Another component of the business is international growth in the United Kingdom through their business partner, Dr. Raymond Davies, with DJR Space Limited. Davies is building their capacity in the U. K., including production work for space, aerospace, and defense. Davies, a U. K. native, lived in the Seattle area for many years and developed deep connections and an affinity for the industry. He’ s worked with JLI as well as with the Washington State Department of Commerce. At present, he’ s building the pipeline for industry growth in his backyard.
“ The U. K. is a little behind the curve, and I saw this happening. The ambitions of the space industry are unfolding.” His overseas connections, combined with Jeff’ s domestic connections, have them well positioned for future business focused on international growth.“ Working with Jeff Tomson is a delight,( due to their) American design and production expertise.”
One of their customers is Hien Nguyen of Bender CCP of Vernon, California, with a location in Kent, Washington. Nguyen has worked with Jeff Tomson for 10 + years, starting with his previous company, which was bought by Bender CCP. His employer doesn’ t provide engineering services, so they turn to JLI. He said they hire them for engineering support, often for structural work, calculation, analysis, and design.
FEBRUARY | MARCH 2026 ISSUE NO. 49 11