Ft. Casy Hand Rail Fittings
They’ ve had an extensive relationship with NASA for tooling programs and DOW work.
While JLI works with the newest technologies in space and aerospace, one of their new services is 3D scanning for reverse engineering. They’ ve had calls to reverse engineer a handrail system at Fort Casey on Whidbey Island, originally manufactured in the early 1900s.“ In my opinion, it’ s easier to work with things that are older,” Jeff said. Both he and Michael shared that early engineers left many building blocks.
Their business thrives on word of mouth and repeat customers, often working for years as either prime or subcontractor. While competition exists, with major clients like Boeing or the Navy, many industry players form overlapping teams.
Since JLI does so much work with the government, Jeff said they have become good at“ managing the projects through us to the supplier base, and back to the customers. It is seamless to the customers how we do the work, and we take full responsibility for the project.” He said they currently have several government, NASA and Boeing contracts.
When responding to RFPs and writing proposals, he said there can be time savings as“ many of them ask similar questions or are firm fixed price quotes with a clear statement of work.” He did say they have support paperwork regarding capabilities or past performance documentation,“ I’ ve put together various PowerPoint presentations that support this effort, and I can do a fairly quick edit to support a statement of work.” He said he’ s talked to a lot of government contractors, and he said,“ You have to really want to do it.” He’ s figured out how to approach government contracting most effectively and said it is worth his time.
He loves working with all of the contractors and subcontractors and creating a healthy work environment for them. He said,“ Communication is key; you are always sharing issues with contractors and customers, making sure everyone knows what’ s going on. There is a high level of communication about changes. The best communication when you need something
Jack Tester for Boeing
A Gangway Design Build Project for the Noaa- Tidal Action Multi Position
FEBRUARY | MARCH 2026 ISSUE NO. 49 13