The Voice of LTI
Meet Ashley Yerkes – Brand Ambassador for LTI
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Hi I’m Ashley Yerkes and I’m proud to serve as the brand ambassador for laboratory testing my story with LTI actually started when I was a kid coming to take your child to workday to visit my mom who worked in the non-destructive testing department i’ve been connected to this company ever since over the years I’ve had the chance to work in IT customer service accounting and now sales i’ve grown through roles such as the customer service coordinator inside sales rep and now key account manager through those roles I’ve also had the opportunity to support my co-workers by leading internal trainings on everything from our customer portal upgrades and HubSpot to CSI development i’m also a certified accuracy in the workplace trainer and I’ve hosted sessions across the company to help reinforce intentional accuracy in everything we do in 2017 I was part of the team that organized and hosted our openhouse event for all of our customers and I continue to serve on our health and wellness committee supporting our employees and contributing to the culture is something I truly value lti has always been more than just a workplace for me it’s family literally i’m the third generation of my family to work here my grandfather was a driver for LTI until his retirement and I’m proud to carry that legacy forward as brand ambassador I’m excited to connect with you our customers and show you what makes LTI different from the people behind the work to the standards we hold ourselves to I’m here to help tell that story thanks for watching and I look forward to what’s ahead.
Ashley Yerkes has been part of the LTI family for over 14 years, but her connection goes back even further. With deep family roots at the company and firsthand experience across departments, Ashley embodies the values, expertise, and commitment that define Laboratory Testing.
In her new role as Brand Ambassador, Ashley serves as the face and voice of LTI’s video content. Through this series, she takes viewers behind the scenes of our materials testing process, introduces the teams that make it happen, and shares insights that help customers get the most out of their testing experience.
This introductory video offers a glimpse into Ashley’s background, her passion for the work we do, and what you can expect from this initiative. Whether you are a long-time customer or just learning about Laboratory Testing, you will get a sense of the people and principles that set us apart.
What’s Next?
This video is just the beginning. In the weeks ahead, Ashley will cover topics such as:
- How to avoid delays in your test reports
- What to expect during contract review
- How to use the LTI Customer Portal
- Tips from our technicians and testing teams
Each video is designed to be helpful, approachable, and true to LTI’s mission: delivering accurate, timely results with clarity and care.
Follow Along
You can find all future Brand Ambassador videos here, under the What’s New section, alongside updates on tradeshows, blog articles, and more.
For real-time updates, follow us on:
Additive Manufacturing Testing, All Under One Roof
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Hey, it’s Ashley, and today we’re talking about additive manufacturing. At LTI, we provide a complete workflow for additive manufacturing materials. From powder to fully printed parts and builds, we test them all under one roof.
It all starts with powder characterization, followed by machining, extraction, and specimen preparation to ensure reliable results. We provide both destructive and non-destructive testing, everything from fracture toughness to fatigue, digital radiography, and ultrasonic inspections with our new ScanMaster UT tank. Our customers love that it’s all under one roof, saving them time and eliminating delays.
By eliminating vendor handoffs, LTI delivers industry-leading turnaround time, averaging 3.39 days compared to the industry’s 5 to 7 days. That’s why defense, space, aerospace, and naval programs trust us to keep their additive manufacturing projects moving. LTI, your end-to-end additive manufacturing testing partner.
Our Brand Ambassador, Ashley Yerkes, walks through LTI’s complete additive manufacturing testing capabilities and explains how we support customers from powder to fully printed parts and builds, all under one roof.
See how LTI’s integrated approach eliminates vendor handoffs, reduces delays, and delivers industry-leading turnaround times for mission-critical additive manufacturing programs.
What You’ll See in the Video
- Powder characterization to verify chemical and physical properties before a build
- Machining, extraction, and specimen preparation for accurate test results
- Destructive testing, including fatigue and fracture toughness
- Non-destructive testing such as digital radiography and ultrasonic inspection using our ScanMaster UT tank
- How an all-in-one testing workflow saves time and keeps projects moving
Why Additive Manufacturing Testing Matters
Additive manufacturing projects depend on reliable testing at every stage. By keeping all AM testing services under one roof, LTI helps customers reduce risk, maintain compliance, and move faster from qualification to production. With an average turnaround time of 3.39 days compared to the industry standard of 5 to 7 days, our approach supports faster decision-making and on-time delivery.
Want to dive deeper into LTI’s end-to-end approach to additive manufacturing testing? Our blog article, Additive Manufacturing Testing, All Under One Roof, breaks down how our all-in-one workflow helps customers reduce delays and keep AM programs moving.
Read the article: https://labtesting.com/end-to-end-additive-manufacturing-testing-all-under-one-roof/
Want to Learn More?
Visit our Additive Manufacturing Testing service page for details on capabilities, testing methods, and specifications:
https://labtesting.com/services/additive-manufacturing-testing/
Happy Holidays from the LTI Team
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Hey, it’s Ashley. It’s the holidays here at LTI, so we hit the floor with a few rapid-fire questions to see where the team lands. First up, the movie showdown. Everyone has a favorite. Christmas Story or Christmas Vacation? For many, it was hands down Christmas Vacation, with several votes for National Lampoon’s classic. Others stood firm on Christmas Story, calling it a tradition and even admitting they miss watching it now that their family has moved on from it.
Next debate, The Grinch or Elf? Elf definitely had a strong showing, but The Grinch held its own, especially the Jim Carrey version, which more than a few people found especially funny.
We also asked which Christmas movie is on repeat at home. Answers ranged from Die Hard to Krampus, with a few folks admitting they weren’t even sure they’d seen some of the movies mentioned.
When it comes to the holidays, some people travel while others stay close to home. A few are hosting family this year, including one brave soul planning a Christmas brunch. Others are keeping things low-key, staying home or visiting nearby family, while a couple are heading out on bigger trips, including a visit to Universal Studios in Orlando. For some, it just depends on the year and where life is at.
Holiday traditions brought out some great stories. One family makes a massive batch of Christmas cookies every Christmas Eve. Another memorable tradition included a crown roast that clearly left a lasting impression.
Food, of course, was a hot topic. Favorite Christmas dinner dishes ranged from Brussels sprouts and honey-glazed ham to candied apple rings and even a full Chinese food s’mores board. When it came to cookies, the list got serious. Raspberry thumbprints, chocolate chip, pistachio cookies, Italian cookies passed down every year, and the ever-popular Christmas crack made the cut. Chocolate with peanut butter chips and Hello Dollies also earned honorable mentions, even if that technically meant picking two favorites.
From everyone at LTI, thank you for an incredible year. Wishing you a joyful and relaxing holiday season.
As part of our ongoing LTI Brand Ambassador series, we’re closing out the year with a little holiday fun. We asked our team some quick, lighthearted questions about favorite Christmas movies, family traditions, holiday food, and what they’re most grateful for this season.
Just like the other Brand Ambassador videos on this page, this one highlights the people behind the work and the culture that makes Laboratory Testing (LTI) what it is. Real voices, real personalities, and a shared sense of connection.
From all of us at Laboratory Testing (LTI), thank you for being part of our journey this year. We wish you a safe, joyful, and relaxing holiday season.
Holiday Closure Notice
Laboratory Testing (LTI) will be closed in observance of the holiday season on December 25 and 26, and January 1 and 2. Normal business operations will resume the following business day.
We appreciate your understanding and wish you a happy holiday season.
Thanksgiving Video: Holiday Q&A with the LTI Team
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Hey everyone, it’s Ashley at LTI and today we’re keeping things fun and light. We know how hard everyone works, so we’re taking a minute to talk about Thanksgiving. Traditions, travel, food, all the good stuff. Let’s see what the team is up to.
Hey Shirley, do you have any traditions on Thanksgiving?
My husband and I love to go for hikes in the woods and then maybe see the family, but usually we have to.Hey Mike, how’s it going?
I’m good.
Thanksgiving question for you.
Okay.
Apple pie or pumpkin pie?
Pumpkin pie every day.Kevin, got a Thanksgiving question for you.
Pumpkin pie or apple pie?
Both.All right. Pumpkin pie or apple pie?
Pumpkin.
Pumpkin pie or apple pie?
Apple pie.
Pumpkin pie or apple pie at Thanksgiving?
Both.
Pumpkin pie or apple pie?
Apple.
Pumpkin pie or apple pie?
Apple pie.
Pumpkin pie or apple pie?
Pumpkin pie.
Pumpkin pie or apple pie?
Apple.Box stuffing or homemade?
Oh, I could go either way. I’ll go home.
Box stuffing or homemade?
Homemade.
Box stuffing or homemade stuffing?
Homemade stuffing.
Homemade stuffing or box stuffing?
I don’t eat stuffing.Light meat or dark meat?
I’m a dark meat guy.
Light meat or dark meat?
Both.
Light meat or dark meat?
Light.
Light meat or dark meat?
Yes.Is it pecan pie or pee-can pie?
Oh my gosh. So, first of all, I’ve never had that before.
Oh my gosh.
Ever.
But I would go pecan.
Is it pecan pie or pee-can pie?
Pecan.
Pecan pie or pee-can pie?
Pecan, I think.
Is it pecan pie or pee-can pie?
Pean.Thanks for sharing. From all of us here at LTI, we hope you have a safe, relaxing, and delicious Thanksgiving. Enjoy your time with friends and family and we’ll be right back at it together after the holiday. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
To celebrate the holiday, our Brand Ambassador, Ashley, took a walk around the lab to get the inside scoop on how LTI teammates really feel about Thanksgiving traditions. From stuffing preferences to strong pie opinions (pumpkin vs. apple gets heated), this quick video captures the lighter side of the team you trust for testing precision.
Here’s a fun, festive look at how our team shares personality, one rapid-fire holiday question at a time.
Note: Laboratory Testing will be closed on November 27 and 28 so our team can enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday.
ICP Analysis with Jessica Ingalsbe
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Ashley: Hey, it’s Ashley. I’m here in our Chemistry Lab with one of our Senior Analysts, Jessica Ingalsbe. Jess is going to walk us through how ICP analysis works and why it matters for our customers. Jess, can you explain what ICP analysis is at a high level?
Jess: Absolutely. ICP stands for Inductively Coupled Plasma. It’s a method we use to determine what elements are in a sample and in what concentrations. It’s especially valuable for materials testing since it gives us accurate and reliable data on the chemical composition.
Ashley: If I send in a sample, what happens next?
Jess: First, we digest the material in the wet lab so it’s ready for testing. Then the solution is introduced into the ICP instrument. The plasma excites the elements in the sample and they give off a photon of light, which the spectrometer analyzes. Each element has a unique signature. That’s how we can precisely analyze what’s in each sample.
Ashley: What makes ICP valuable to our customers?
Jess: It’s highly accurate and precise, even at trace levels. It’s efficient — we can analyze multiple elements in one run, saving time. And it meets industry quality standards such as ASTM and Nadcap.
Ashley: Are there any common issues that customers can help prevent when they send in a sample?
Jess: Yes. One thing that can cause delays is when customers don’t send enough material to properly run the analysis. It’s also important that the sample is clean and representative of the material they want tested. When those things are taken care of, it helps us keep the process smooth and efficient.
Ashley: Thanks, Jess. It’s clear that ICP is a powerful tool for our customers. Before we wrap up, what other services do you and the Chem Lab team provide?
Jess: We provide a wide range of services including classical wet chemistry, combustion analysis, optical emission spectroscopy, ICP mass spectrometry, and various corrosion testing.
Ashley: Perfect. Thanks for sharing, Jess. And thank you for joining us. Stay tuned for more spotlights with our LTI experts.
Our Brand Ambassador, Ashley Yerkes, sits down with Jessica Ingalsbe, Senior Analyst II in the Chemical Analysis Lab, to give you a high-level walkthrough of Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) analysis.
See how we get elemental breakdowns for your metal and materials samples and learn some tips to avoid delays so your test report comes back smoothly.
What You’ll See in the Video
- How ICP testing works from sample preparation to results
- Why ICP provides accuracy, speed, and compliance you can trust
- Common issues customers can prevent, such as sending enough material or ensuring samples are clean
- A preview of other chemical analysis services offered by the lab
Why ICP Matters
ICP helps measure both trace and major elements in metal and material samples. This gives customers reliable data, supports compliance with ASTM and Nadcap standards, and provides quick turnaround for quality and R&D teams.
If you’re interested in practical tips that apply across all types of testing projects, check out our blog article 3 Ways to Keep Your Materials Testing Project Moving Efficiently.
Want to Learn More?
Visit our ICP Analysis service page for details on detection limits, element lists, and specifications: https://labtesting.com/services/metal-and-materials-testing/chemical-analysis/icp-analysis/
Call to Action
Have a sample you need tested or want clarity before sending material? Contact us today. We’ll help you prepare it correctly so you can get fast, accurate results.
Want to learn more about our full range of testing services? Explore all capabilities here.
Behind the Test: Fatigue Crack Growth
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Hey, it’s Ashley. I’m here in our fatigue and fracture lab at LTI with Jake. Hi, I’m Jake Chel. I’m the fatigue and fracture team lead here at LTI. I’ve been here for just over 5 years uh with background experience in physics and in mechanical engineering. Have you ever wondered how a tiny crack in a metal part can become a big problem? We’re here to show you with a test called fatigue rack growth testing. Fatigue crack growth testing um informs us on how fast or how slow a crack will grow through a material. This is super important in a wide variety of industries such as aerospace, automotive, and the additive industries. You know, where a crack is super important and where it can cause a lot of danger. At LTI, we follow ASME E647 standards and use advanced systems to monitor every crack and cycle. Our team delivers fast, precise data customers can rely on whether for R&D or mission-critical parts. What sets LTI apart? Firstly, is our volume capacity. In here in the Pigium Fracture Lab, we have 52 server hydraulic test frames. We have really good turnaround time as well as a very deep technical experience across all of our technicians. We’ve worked on something, you know, really small additive manufactured parts all the way up to large CTS and even component parts. Whether you’re testing for safety, reliability, or performance, our fatigue crack growth team at LTI is here to help. Visit www.labtesting.com for more information.
What happens when materials are exposed to repeated stress over time? Cracks form — and grow — often long before a part visibly fails.
In this edition of Behind the Test, LTI Brand Ambassador Ashley Yerkes steps into the Fatigue Lab with Jake Celli, LTI’s Fatigue & Fracture Department Team Leader, to explore how Fatigue Crack Growth (FCG) testing works and why it’s essential in industries where safety and performance are non-negotiable.
From advanced servo-hydraulic test systems to expert data analysis, Jake walks us through the process of simulating real-world stress and monitoring crack propagation — all in accordance with ASTM E647 standards. The result? Reliable, actionable data that helps our customers prevent failure before it starts.
Watch the video above to see how LTI delivers confidence through precision mechanical testing.
Want to learn more about our full range of testing services? Explore all capabilities here.
What Customers Can Expect
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[Music] When Customers send their material to us, they’re trusting us with something important. Here’s what they can expect. We work with missionritical OEMs, forggers, fabricators, heat treaters, and suppliers in critical industries, aerospace, nuclear, defense, energy, and more. We provide mechanical testing, chemical analysis, fatigue, and fracture testing, and a full service machine shop, all under one roof. Our non-destructive testing capabilities include ultrasonic, fluorescent penetrint, magnetic particle, and X-ray inspection, delivering comprehensive results from a single trusted source. Customers count on us for fast turnarounds, clear communication, and reliable results. Our team of experts work closely with clients to make sure every test is accurate and every question gets answered. With our LTI1 portal, customers have 24/7 access to order status, test reports, and certifications. And behind the scenes, every sample is barcoded and tracked, ensuring complete traceability from receiving through final results. I’ve seen firsthand how much our customers rely on us, and I take that very seriously. At LTI, we don’t just test materials, we build trust. [Music]
We believe that delivering confidence starts long before test results are issued. As your trusted testing partner, we’re committed to clear communication, reliable turnaround times, and technical excellence in every service we provide.
In this short video, our Brand Ambassador Ashley Yerkes walks through what you can expect when working with LTI — whether you’re a first-time customer or a long-term partner.
[Watch the video above]
Want to learn more about our services? Explore our full capabilities here.
How’s LTI Celebrating the 4th of July?
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Hey it’s Ashley – The 4th of July is coming up and I asked a few teammates how they’re celebrating Hey Marion what are you doing for 4th of July I’ll be at the swim club having a great time swimming away Hey Mallalerie what are you doing for Fourth of July Oh I’m going camping at Promis Land State Park Hey Brandon what are you doing for Fourth of July Uh pretty simple Fourth of July This year is going to hang out with uh the family and friends at home Hey Jess what are you doing for Fourth of July Oh wow Um I’m actually traveling next week I’m heading up to Vermont I have a horse show that I’m competing at next week Hey John What are you doing for Fourth of July Well I’ll be doing a fireworks display in Kate May New Jersey in front of the infamous Congress Hall Hotel at around 9:15 And if uh if you’re going to come and see it you can sing you’re on your way to Kate May Just a reminder LTI will be closed on July 4th so that our team can celebrate too Happy 4th of July from all of us at LTI.
To kick off the holiday, our Brand Ambassador Ashley took a quick walk around the lab to find out how a few LTI teammates are spending their Fourth of July. From fireworks to family cookouts, here’s a lighthearted look at how our team celebrates summer — both in and out of the lab.
Note: Laboratory Testing will be closed on July 4th so our team can enjoy the holiday.
Get in Touch
Request a quote or contact us today to see how LTI’s industry-leading turnaround times can keep your mission-critical approvals moving forward.