By Justin Quinn, President of Focused on Machining 

If you’re a manufacturing buyer who does business with the US government, chances are you’re well-acquainted with FAR regulation 19.201. This regulation clarifies the government’s commitment to providing business opportunities to small businesses, veteran-owned small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, HUBZone small businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, and women-owned small businesses.

From my discussions with buyers, I understand that adhering to the highly specific regulations outlining the percentage of government work that must be contracted to businesses in the categories listed can be difficult. Yet the stakes couldn’t be higher, as failure to comply could cost you your next government contract. 

That’s why I want you to know that when you contract CNC machining services to Focused on Machining, you’ll be working with a certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).

My Experience in the US Air Force 

Many people don’t know this, but I served in the US Air Force for six years before purchasing Focused on Machining. I’m always happy to look back and reflect on that foundational experience. 

I joined the Air Force right out of high school in 2002 and spent my first couple of years learning and becoming certified in aircraft systems—everything from engine to hydraulic to air conditioning—to serve as an aircraft mechanic on the C-17. 

I then earned my flight status, allowing me to fly with the aircraft all around the world. For years, I lived out of a suitcase, traveling to locations like Afghanistan, Iraq, and Antarctica with a toolbox and a laptop to ensure the aircraft remained operational. It was an incredible way to spend that part of my life, and I’m very grateful for the experience. 

Unfortunately, all that time spent in close proximity to jet engines led to cumulative hearing loss, which is how I earned my disabled veteran status. I maintain an up-to-date certification from the VA stating that I am a disabled veteran. 

CNC Machining Services Certifications 

I understand that many buyers who do business with the US government must outsource their manufacturing to shops that hold specific certifications. As a precision machine shop with a high percentage of aerospace and defense customers, Focused on Machining is committed to maintaining pertinent certifications and compliances. 

ISO certification 

ISO certification ensures that we maintain a quality management system conforming to a set of requirements defined by International Standards.

AS9100 certification 

If you need an AS9100 machine shop for aerospace parts, you’ve come to the right place. Focused on Machining follows a strict set of quality management system requirements designed specifically for the high-stakes aerospace industry. 

ITAR compliant  

We use ITAR-compliant systems and processes to ensure adherence to US government regulations regarding the import and export of defense-related items.

CMMC compliant (in progress) 

We are in the process of pursuing CMMC compliance and are on target to achieve Level 2 certification, which has a long list of 110 requirements aligned to NIST SP 800-171, by the end of 2024. 

Work with Our Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business

If you’re looking for manufacturing partners who can help you meet FAR requirements, I hope you’ll consider Focused on Machining for CNC machining services. We have a reputation for machining complex parts fast and at an incredibly high quality level. Let us know what we can do for you.