LAI International, Inc.: Continuing a tradition of innovation

LAI International, Inc. grew from its roots as a regional contract manufacturer to its status today as an international leader in the development of advanced manufacturing technologies, including laser, waterjet, electrical discharge machining and high-speed CNC machining methods. LAI's management team has led the success and growth of the business with a vision to provide superior service and deliver outstanding quality in the company's tradition of innovation. Today, LAI is made up of five U.S. contract manufacturing facilities, totaling more than 162,600 square feet. The precision components that LAI manufactures are used in aerospace, automotive, industrial, medical and power generation equipment around the world. LAI continues to grow as a machining service provider to industry as it continues its tradition of innovation.

LAI’s Mission Statement

Solve our customer’s complex manufacturing challenges with superior quality, fair pricing and world-class service.

LAI Timeline of Events

  • 2009 – Wins third-consecutive Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Company Award.
  • 2008 – Wins Northrop Grumman Platinum Supplier Award and ACE Corporate Excellence Awards.
  • 2007 – Acquires Rich Technology Intenational, Scarborough, Maine
  • 2006 – Acquires Southwestern Laser, Tucson, Ariz.
  • 2005 – Acquired by Spell Capital Partners
  • 2004 – Wins Raptor of Distinction Award from Lockheed Martin
  • 2003 – Stewart Cramer named president of LAI
  • 2001 – Wins Lockheed Martin Corporate STAR Supplier Award
  • 1997 -- Wins Lockheed Martin's STAR Supplier Award for the F-22 Raptor air-dominance jet fighter program
  • 1996 -- LAI Southwest established in Phoenix, Ariz., specializing in waterjet machining
  • 1994 -- LAI Midwest established in Fridley, Minn., specializing in waterjet machining
  • 1990s -- Develops global reputation as the world’s premier abrasive waterjet hole-driller
  • 1980s – Adds proprietary waterjet machining and laser drilling and laser cutting capabilities
  • 1984 – LAI breaks ground on new facility in Westminster, Md.
  • 1983 -- LAI expands to house growing number of laser machining centers.
  • 1979 -- Founded in Maryland as Laser Applications, Inc., by Robert Ulrich, specializing in laser welding and laser heat-treating processes