Magic Craftsmen

By Ashley Kate Kesler

At Northrop Grumman's Lake Charles Fabrication Center (Fab Center) in Louisiana, employees have built a reputation for doing hard things — and doing them well.

That reputation was tested when a U.S. Navy E-6B Mercury — a highly specialized aircraft that plays a vital role in naval operations — required a replacement part from the original manufacturer that did not fit, and a custom solution was needed.

The Navy turned to the Fab Center — known informally as the “Magic Craftsmen" — to develop and execute the repair.

The team, which specializes in addressing critical manufacturing challenges, has become a go-to resource across the company. The familiar question whenever a complex issue arises: “Have you reached out to Lake Charles?"

"It's a collective effort across departments, from planners to machinists to managers, to have great personal and professional relationships, with the ultimate goal of keeping the customer happy,” said Jason “That's just the way we are in Louisiana; we stick together. When you have someone looking out for you and everyone works toward a shared goal, you can't fail."

This bond is felt across generations. Many, like Ray McManus, manufacturing manager, and Tye Whitley, lead quality inspector, have been with the company for decades, passing down invaluable knowledge.

Others, like John Shary, production planner, and Thomas Kent, F-16 project and production planner, bring fresh perspectives while leaning on the team's expertise to sharpen their skills.

“We have the best of both worlds, which is not something you see in a lot of fab shops, to have both machinists and veteran fabricators," said Derik. “Our team is teaching the next generation to ensure that we all are — and continue to be — successful."