In the mid-1990s, an enterprising California kid began working part-time as a data entry assistant for Q-Plus Labs, when it was still based in the owner’s garage in Rancho Santa Margarita. Little did Mike Lyons know that his side gig in high school would lead to a rewarding career as a respected metrology expert.
Not so long ago, you would have found Seong Ah Jo working behind the scenes in Korea’s fast-paced world of sports broadcasting. These days, cranes are her comfort zone — and Canada’s crane operators could not be happier about that.
Meet Nick Batts, Assistant Mechanical Manager at IIA’s St. Louis Lab, whose mechanical mind and commitment to safety help customers understand how and why products fail before they reach the public.
“The thing I enjoy most about my job is meeting with employees, learning about the work they do, and getting their feedback on how to keep people safe,” he says. “It’s amazing when you can join an organization, bring to the table everything that you’ve learned, apply it, and see success.”
Even at a young age, Sam Yank earned a reputation as a closer. His innate sales ability did not go unnoticed by classmates at McHenry East High School, who teased him with a unique observation.
Whether he’s mastering the art of metrology or baking his first loaf of bread, Kevin Swalchick is always looking for opportunities to learn. As he embarked on his career journey, Kevin discovered that one of the best ways to learn what you want in life is to experience what you don’t want.
Fueled by a strong work ethic and a lifelong interest in all things aerospace and defense, Robert Gutierrez is on a mission to deliver story-worthy service. As Metrology Technician/Inspector for Industrial Inspection & Analysis (IIA), Robert works behind the scenes to ensure the safety and quality of manufactured parts and processes.
It was her enthusiasm for connecting with customers that drew Carolynn to Industrial Inspection & Analysis (IIA) in the fall of 2024. Her role as Director of Sales for our Florida lab offers the opportunity to put her lab experience to work and partner with customers on exciting new product launches.
In one of Paul Salzer’s favorite cartoons, a mother takes her young son to the doctor after he disassembles the family’s TV, clock and stereo and re-assembles them into a ham radio set. The doctor somberly diagnoses the boy with “The Knack,” and pegs him as a future engineer. It’s a depiction Paul finds relatable.
These days, Nick brings hands-on lab experience into his sales role, where he connects customers to the custom testing solutions they need. He travels frequently to conduct on-site training and enjoys getting back into the lab on occasion to assist with development and testing.