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HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | MARCH 23, 2026 11 L isa dedicated 10 remarkable years to Lynn Welding, bringing over 40 years of aerospace manufacturing experience. She led a comprehensive overhaul of First Article Inspections and conducted an extensive multi-year audit of material, weld, and certification records, eliminating systemic deficiencies, preventing significant rework costs, and establishing stronger, more disciplined quality processes across the organization. She rebuilt the Quality Management System, led major Prime and NADCAP au- dits, secured and maintained AS9100D and NADCAP accreditation, and transformed the company into a true quality-first organization. Now retired, she continues to serve as a valued Quality Mentor How has access to education, apprenticeships, or upskilling programs affected your career path? I believe lifelong learning, as well as stepping outside your comfort zone, will enhance professional growth. A strong foundation can begin in high school through math, sci- ence, and technical coursework. Trade schools, apprenticeships, community colleges, and continuing education programs further build specialized skills. Equally important is real-world work experi- ence—any job can develop problem-solving, communication, time management, or teamwork skills contributes to long-term success. What is one moment in your career that made you especially proud to be a woman in manufacturing? Volunteering for Junior Achievement through their community vol- unteers program, which aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience. The power of teaching moments and the lasting impact they can have is especially rewarding and goes beyond information-sharing. By stepping into that role decades ago, I hoped to model possibility, professionalism, representation and confidence for young students. Today, programs such as Career Connections for Young Women continue that legacy by intentionally creating spaces where young women can explore career paths, build practical skills, and envision themselves in leadership roles. What advice would you give to young women considering a career in manufacturing today? Manufacturing thrives on diversity and teamwork. Manufacturing environments bring together people with different educational backgrounds, skill sets, cultures, and life experiences. Diverse teams are often better at identifying inefficiencies, enhancing safety, improving quality, and driving technological advancement. One of the strengths of manufacturing is the wide range of high-quality, well-paying, and intellectually challenging career paths available. Whether someone enjoys hands-on technical work, data analysis, leadership, purchasing, sales, marketing or design, there is a pathway that aligns with their interests and strengths. For women especially, manufacturing offers a space to embrace di- versity and build impactful careers. Women bring critical perspectives that strengthen collaboration, innovation, and organizational culture. Manufacturing is not just about making products, it's about building solutions, advancing technology, and shaping the future. With the right skills and an open mindset, the possibilities are truly endless. LISA HEYL Director of Quality LYNN WELDING CO. For more than four decades, Lynn Welding has been a trusted partner to leading aerospace, defense, nuclear, industrial, and medical manufacturers. Since 1979, the company has built its reputation on solving complex engineering challenges through advanced welding, machining, and fabrication expertise. Lynn Welding specializes in fusion welding, resistance welding, machining, and fabrication for the aerospace and defense in- dustries. Our Nadcap-approved welding facility holds approvals from most major aerospace primes and employs certified welding inspectors. Lynn Welding is also AS9100 and ISO9001 Certified as well as ITAR complaint. www.aerospacewelding.com contact: sales@lynnwelding.com Address: 39 Progress Circle, Unit B Newington CT 06111 phone: (860) 667-4400 fax: (860) 667-3040