10-Q 1 form10q.htm NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC 10-Q 10-31-2010 form10q.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
___________________________

(Mark One)
T
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended October 31, 2010

or

£
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For transition period from ________________  to _________________
 
0-16438
(Commission File Number)

NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 
California
 
95-4134955
 
 
(State of incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 

24007 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 200, Calabasas, California
(Address of principal executive offices)

 
(818) 591-0776
 
91302
 
 
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
 
(Zip code)
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
YES  T  NO  £
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232,405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
YES  £  NO  £
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “accelerated filer,” “ large accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer £
Accelerated filer £
Non-accelerated filer £
Smaller reporting company T
   
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
YES  £  NO  T
 
The number of shares of common stock, no par value, outstanding as of December 8, 2010 was 10,142,590.
 


 
 

 
 
NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC.  AND SUBSIDIARIES

Index

PART  I.   FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Page No.
         
Item 1.
Financial Statements:
   
         
     
3
         
     
4
         
     
5
         
     
6
         
     
7
         
Item 2.
 
12
         
Item 3.
 
19
         
Item 4.
 
19
         
PART  II.   OTHER INFORMATION & SIGNATURE
   
         
Item 1.
 
20
         
Item 1A. 
 
20
         
Item 2.
 
20
         
Item 3.
 
20
         
Item 4.
 
20
         
Item 5.
 
20
         
Item 6.
 
20
         
   
21

 
2


PART I – FINANCIAL
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Balance Sheets

   
At
   
At
 
   
October 31,
   
January 31,
 
   
2010
   
2010
 
ASSETS
 
(unaudited)
       
CURRENT ASSETS:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 4,906,000     $ 7,102,000  
Investments
    2,548,000       1,893,000  
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $620,000 at October 31, 2010 and  $1,000,000 at January 31, 2010
    32,147,000       27,777,000  
Income taxes receivable
    52,000       115,000  
Inventories, net
    4,340,000       2,659,000  
Deferred income taxes
    3,725,000       3,561,000  
Prepaid expenses
    1,197,000       963,000  
Total current assets
    48,915,000       44,070,000  
                 
Property, plant and equipment, at cost
    113,737,000       107,550,000  
Less: accumulated depreciation
    (71,032,000 )     (68,804,000 )
Net property, plant and equipment
    42,705,000       38,746,000  
                 
Goodwill
    16,139,000       14,769,000  
Intangible assets, net
    7,682,000       8,374,000  
Other assets
    2,981,000       4,042,000  
                 
TOTAL ASSETS
  $ 118,422,000     $ 110,001,000  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
               
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 7,089,000     $ 5,798,000  
Accrued expenses
    10,922,000       10,920,000  
Income taxes payable
    444,000       -  
Deferred income
    1,576,000       1,437,000  
Current installments of long-term debt
    4,799,000       3,910,000  
Total current liabilities
    24,830,000       22,065,000  
                 
Long-term debt, excluding current installments
    28,409,000       31,560,000  
Deferred income taxes
    8,407,000       7,835,000  
Deferred compensation
    1,358,000       1,169,000  
Commitments and contingencies
               
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
               
Preferred stock, no par value, 2,000,000 shares authorized; none issued
    -       -  
Common stock, no par value.  Authorized, 20,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding, 10,140,000 as of October 31, 2010 and  9,449,000 as of January 31, 2010
    20,118,000       17,297,000  
Paid-in capital
    -       -  
Retained earnings
    34,541,000       29,679,000  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (164,000 )     (127,000 )
Total shareholders' equity
    54,495,000       46,849,000  
Noncontrolling interests
    923,000       523,000  
Total equity
    55,418,000       47,372,000  
                 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
  $ 118,422,000     $ 110,001,000  

See accompanying notes.

 
3


NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income
for Nine Months Ended October 31, 2010 and 2009

   
2010
   
2009
 
             
Net revenues
  $ 109,679,000     $ 90,229,000  
Cost of sales
    78,869,000       65,357,000  
Gross profit
    30,810,000       24,872,000  
                 
Selling, general and administrative expense
    23,309,000       19,546,000  
Equity loss from non-consolidated subsidiary
    111,000       51,000  
Operating income
    7,390,000       5,275,000  
Other income (expense):
               
Interest expense, net
    (866,000 )     (1,020,000 )
Other income, net
    3,719,000       156,000  
Total other income (expense), net
    2,853,000       (864,000 )
                 
Income before income taxes and noncontrolling interests
    10,243,000       4,411,000  
Income taxes
    4,172,000       1,796,000  
                 
Income before noncontrolling interests
    6,071,000       2,615,000  
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (400,000 )     (98,000 )
                 
Net income
  $ 5,671,000     $ 2,517,000  
                 
Net income per common share:
               
Basic
  $ 0.58     $ 0.27  
Diluted
  $ 0.55     $ 0.26  
                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    9,755,000       9,307,000  
Dilutive effect of stock options and nonvested shares
    559,000       387,000  
Weighted average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution
    10,314,000       9,694,000  
                 
Cash dividends per common share
  $ 0.07     $ 0.06  

See accompanying notes.

 
4


NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income
for the Three Months Ended October 31, 2010 and 2009

   
2010
   
2009
 
             
Net revenues
  $ 39,022,000     $ 32,801,000  
Cost of sales
    28,309,000       23,471,000  
Gross profit
    10,713,000       9,330,000  
                 
Selling, general and administrative expense
    8,544,000       7,013,000  
Equity loss from non-consolidated subsidiary
    64,000       16,000  
Operating income
    2,105,000       2,301,000  
Other income (expense):
               
Interest expense, net
    (283,000 )     (297,000 )
Other income, net
    530,000       21,000  
Total other income (expense), net
    247,000       (276,000 )
                 
Income before income taxes and noncontrolling interests
    2,352,000       2,025,000  
Income taxes
    1,021,000       830,000  
                 
Income before noncontrolling interests
    1,331,000       1,195,000  
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
    (199,000 )     (70,000 )
                 
Net income
  $ 1,132,000     $ 1,125,000  
                 
Net income per common share:
               
Basic
  $ 0.11     $ 0.12  
Diluted
  $ 0.11     $ 0.11  
                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
    10,096,000       9,319,000  
Dilutive effect of stock options and nonvested shares
    484,000       581,000  
Weighted average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution
    10,580,000       9,900,000  

See accompanying notes.

 
5


NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
for the Nine Months Ended October 31, 2010 and 2009

   
2010
   
2009
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
           
Net income
  $ 5,671,000     $ 2,517,000  
                 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    5,443,000       5,411,000  
Bad debt (recoveries) write-offs, net
    (380,000 )     222,000  
Gain on sale of assets
    (3,017,000 )     -  
Loss on retirement of assets
    14,000       8,000  
Gain on investments
    (141,000 )     (212,000 )
Life insurance premium
    49,000       49,000  
Undistributed earnings of affiliate
    400,000       97,000  
Deferred income taxes
    408,000       (181,000 )
Share based compensation
    398,000       229,000  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities (net of acquisitions):
               
Accounts receivable
    (3,874,000 )     (3,389,000 )
Inventories
    (1,681,000 )     (199,000 )
Prepaid expenses
    (234,000 )     102,000  
Other assets
    194,000       117,000  
Accounts payable
    1,291,000       (1,123,000 )
Accrued expenses
    1,969,000       1,882,000  
Income taxes payable
    444,000       (644,000 )
Deferred income
    139,000       773,000  
Deferred compensation
    189,000       14,000  
Income taxes receivable
    63,000       125,000  
Net cash provided by operating activities
    7,345,000       5,798,000  
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
    (8,975,000 )     (4,760,000 )
Investment in life insurance
    (25,000 )     (184,000 )
Proceeds from sale of life insurance
    1,826,000       -  
Acquisitions of businesses, earn-out payments
    (2,149,000 )     (159,000 )
Proceeds from sale of assets
    2,293,000       -  
Investment in retirement funds
    (563,000 )     (527,000 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (7,593,000 )     (5,630,000 )
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Proceeds from current and long-term debt
    4,482,000       2,808,000  
Repayments of current and long-term debt
    (6,744,000 )     (5,126,000 )
Net cash dividends paid by NQA, Inc.
    (99,000 )     -  
Cash dividends paid
    (710,000 )     (566,000 )
Proceeds from stock options exercised
    800,000       46,000  
Tax benefit from stock options exercised
    360,000       -  
Common stock repurchase
    -       (58,000 )
Net cash used in financing activities
    (1,911,000 )     (2,896,000 )
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    (37,000 )     47,000  
                 
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (2,196,000 )     (2,681,000 )
Beginning cash and cash equivalents balance
    7,102,000       9,364,000  
                 
ENDING CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS BALANCE
  $ 4,906,000     $ 6,683,000  

See accompanying notes.

 
6


NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

1.
Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of National Technical Systems, Inc. (“NTS” or the “Company”) and its majority-owned or otherwise controlled subsidiaries. In accordance with authoritative guidance released by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) clarifying that a noncontrolling interest held by others in a subsidiary is to be part of the equity of the controlling group and is to be reported on the balance sheet within the equity section as a distinct item separate from the Company’s equity, minority interests have been re-captioned to noncontrolling interests and reported separately on the balance sheet. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Investments in entities in which the Company can exercise significant influence, but does not own a majority equity interest or otherwise control, are accounted for using the equity method and are included as investments in equity interests on the consolidated balance sheets.  These statements should not be construed as representing pro rata results of the Company’s fiscal year ending January 31, 2011 and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2010.

The statements presented as of October 31, 2010 and for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2010 and 2009 are unaudited. In management's opinion, all adjustments have been made to present fairly the results of such unaudited interim periods. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.

2.
Income Taxes

Income taxes for the interim periods are computed using the effective tax rates estimated to be applicable for the full fiscal year, as adjusted for any discrete taxable events that occur during the period.

The Company files income tax returns in the United States (“U.S.”) on a federal basis and in many U.S. state and foreign jurisdictions. Certain tax years remain open to examination by the major taxing jurisdictions to which the Company is subject. The Company does not anticipate that its total unrecognized tax benefits or obligations will significantly change due to the settlement of examinations or the expiration of statutes of limitation during the next twelve months.

3.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets consists of cumulative equity adjustments from foreign currency translation and unrealized gains or losses on marketable securities.  During the nine months ended October 31, 2010, total comprehensive income was $5,634,000 which includes foreign currency translation loss of $37,000.  During the nine months ended October 31, 2009, total comprehensive income was $2,564,000 which includes foreign currency translation gain of $47,000.

4.
Inventories

Inventories consist of accumulated costs applicable to uncompleted contracts and are stated at actual cost which is not in excess of estimated net realizable value.

5.
Noncontrolling Interests

Noncontrolling interest in the Company’s NQA, Inc. subsidiary is a result of 50% of the stock of NQA, Inc. being issued to Ascertiva Group Limited formerly NICEIC Group Limited. Profits and losses are allocated 50.1% to NTS, and 49.9% to Ascertiva Group Limited.  The balance in noncontrolling interests as of January 31, 2010 was $523,000.  Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests for the nine months ended October 31, 2010 was $400,000, resulting in a balance of $923,000 as of October 31, 2010.

6.
Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share have been computed using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the year. Basic earnings per share exclude any dilutive effects of options, warrants, non-vested restricted shares and convertible securities.

7.
Intangible Assets

The following table summarizes the Company’s intangible assets:

 
7


As of October 31, 2010  and January 31, 2010, the Company had the following acquired intangible assets:

   
October 31, 2010
 
January 31, 2010
   
Gross Carrying Amount
   
Accum. Amort.
   
Net Carrying Amount
 
Estimated Useful Life
 
Gross Carrying Amount
   
Accum. Amort.
   
Net Carrying Amount
 
Estimated Useful Life
                                         
Intangible assets subject to amortization:
                                       
                                         
Covenants not to compete
  $ 879,000     $ 588,000     $ 291,000  
3-10 years
  $ 879,000     $ 490,000     $ 389,000  
3-10 years
Customer relationships
    9,147,000       2,204,000       6,943,000  
3-15 years
    9,147,000       1,628,000       7,519,000  
3-15 years
Accreditations and certifications
    20,000       12,000       8,000  
5 years
    20,000       9,000       11,000  
5 years
Trademarks and tradenames
    58,000       18,000       40,000  
3 years
    58,000       3,000       55,000  
3 years
Total
  $ 10,104,000     $ 2,822,000     $ 7,282,000       $ 10,104,000     $ 2,130,000     $ 7,974,000    
                                                     
Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
                                                   
                                                     
Goodwill
                  $ 16,139,000                       $ 14,769,000    
Trademarks and tradenames
                    400,000                         400,000    
Total
                  $ 16,539,000                       $ 15,169,000    
 
Change in goodwill is primarily due to earn-out payment related to Elliot Laboratories acquisition.
 
8.
Equity

Equity Incentive Plans

The Company has two employee incentive stock option plans: the “2002 stock option plan” and the “2006 equity incentive plan.” The 2006 equity incentive plan replaced the 2002 stock option plan, which was terminated early and no further options will be granted under it.

Additional information with respect to the option plans as of October 31, 2010 is as follows:

   
Shares
   
Weighted Avg. Exercise Price
   
Weighted Avg. Remaining Contract Life in years
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
 
Outstanding at January 31, 2010
    1,071,617     $ 3.92       2.85     $ 2,269,000  
Granted
    -       -                  
Exercised
    (426,542 )     2.85                  
Canceled, forfeited or expired
    (8,875 )     3.48                  
Outstanding at October 31, 2010
    636,200     $ 3.99       2.99     $ 2,469,000  
Exercisable at October 31, 2010
    636,200     $ 3.99       2.99     $ 2,469,000  

For the three months ended October 31, 2009, potentially dilutive securities representing approximately 24,000 shares of common stock, were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive.  No such dilutive securities were outstanding as of October 31, 2010.

Compensation expense related to stock options was $25,000 for the nine months ended October 31, 2009.  No similar expense was incurred during the nine months ended October 31, 2010 and as of October 31, 2010, there was no unamortized stock-based compensation expense related to unvested stock options.

The Company’s non-vested restricted shares, which were part of the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, vest at 25% per year commencing with the first anniversary of the grant date. Compensation expense, representing the fair market value of the shares at the date of grant, net of assumptions regarding estimated future forfeitures, is charged to earnings over the vesting period.  Compensation expense included in general and administrative expenses in the Company’s consolidated statement of income, relating to these grants was $233,000 for the nine months ended October 31, 2010.  As of October 31, 2010, 148,000 non-vested shares were outstanding at a weighted average grant date value of $4.81. As of October 31, 2010, there was $710,000 of unamortized stock-based compensation cost related to unvested shares which is expected to be recognized over a remaining period of 45 months.

 
8


The Company recognized $165,000 in compensation expense related to the issuance of common stock for services rendered in the first quarter.

Adoption of a shareholders rights plan

On September 21, 2010 the Board of Directors adopted a shareholders rights plan.  Pursuant to the Shareholders Rights Agreement entered into to effect the rights plan, the Board of Directors declared a dividend distribution of one right for each outstanding share of common stock on the record date of October 1, 2010.  The rights also attach to subsequently issued shares of common stock. Each right, when it becomes exercisable, entitles the registered holder to purchase from the Company one one-hundredth (1/100th) of a share of the Company's Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock, no par value ("Preferred Stock"), at a per-share exercise price of $30.00 in cash, subject to adjustment.  The rights will expire at the close of business on September 20, 2020, unless earlier redeemed or exchanged by the Company.  The Board will review the rights plan at least once every year to determine whether any action by the Board is necessary or appropriate.

The rights will be exercisable ten days following the earlier of the public announcement that a shareholder has acquired 15% or more of the Company's common stock without Board approval or the announcement of a tender offer which would result in the ownership of 15% or more of the Company's common stock.  The rights also will become exercisable if a person or group that already owns 15% or more of the Company's common stock, without Board approval, acquires any additional shares (other than pursuant to the Company's employee benefit plans). The date on which any of these events occur is referred to as the "Distribution Date."  The rights will not be exercisable by a shareholder whose acquisition of securities triggered the rights (an "Acquiring Person"), or such Acquiring Person's affiliates or associates.

Until the Distribution Date, the rights will be represented by the common stock certificates.  After the Distribution Date, separate certificates or other evidences of ownership representing the rights will be mailed to holders of record of the common shares (other than to any Acquiring Person or any associate or affiliate thereof), and thereafter such separate rights certificates will represent the rights.

In the event any shareholder becomes an Acquiring Person, except pursuant to certain permitted offers, each holder of a right will thereafter have the right to receive, upon exercise thereof, for the exercise price, that number of one one-hundredths (1/100ths) of a share of Preferred Stock equal to the number of common shares which at the time of the applicable triggering transaction would have a market value of twice the exercise price.  The Board may, in its discretion, issue substitute securities, including common shares, in whole or in part, for the shares of Preferred Stock.

In the event that, at any time following the time a shareholder becomes an Acquiring Person, (i) the Company merges or combines into or with any Acquiring Person, or any of its affiliates, associates or other related persons or (ii) 50% or more of the Company's assets or earning power is sold or transferred in one or a series of related transactions, each holder of a right (except an Acquiring Person or its affiliates or associates) will thereafter have the right to receive, upon exercise at the initial exercise price of the right, that number of shares of common stock of the acquiring company which equals the exercise price divided by one-half of the current market price of such common stock at the date of the occurrence of the event.

The Company may at any time redeem the rights in whole but not in part, at a redemption price of $0.001 per right (payable in cash, shares of Preferred Stock, shares of common stock or other consideration deemed appropriate by the Board).

At any time following the time a shareholder becomes an Acquiring Person, the Company may exchange the rights (except rights held by an Acquiring Person or its affiliates or associates), in whole or in part, for consideration per right consisting of one-half of the shares of Preferred Stock that would be issuable at such time upon the exercise of one right (or an equivalent value in cash, common shares or other securities).

This summary description of the shareholders rights plan does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Shareholder Rights Agreement and the other documents referenced therein.

9.
Fair Value Measurement

The accounting standard for fair value establishes a framework for measuring fair value and requires disclosures about fair value measurements by establishing a hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:

 
9


Basis of Fair Value Measurement at Reporting Date Using


 
Level 1
Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

 
Level 2
Inputs reflect quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or the liability; or inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.

 
Level 3
Unobservable inputs reflecting the Company’s own assumptions incorporated in valuation techniques used to determine fair value. These assumptions are required to be consistent with market participant assumptions that are reasonably available.
 
The following inputs were used to determine the fair value of the Company’s investment securities and contingent consideration obligations at October 31, 2010:
 
   
Total
   
(Level 1)
   
(Level 2)
   
(Level 3)
 
SERP investment in mutual funds
  $ 2,548,000     $ 2,548,000     $ -     $ -  
Earn-out for Unitek acquisition
    985,000       -       -       985,000  
Total
  $ 3,533,000     $ 2,548,000     $ -     $ 985,000  
 
The fair value of the contingent consideration related to the Unitek acquisition was estimated by applying the income approach.  That measure is based on significant inputs not observable in the market, which are referred to as Level 3 inputs.  Key assumptions include the discount rate and probability adjusted revenues.

10.
Elliott Laboratories, Inc. Earn-Out Consideration

Payment of earn-out consideration for Elliott Laboratories, Inc. of $1,359,000 was made on June 24, 2010.  The earn-out consisted of Company stock of 230,000 shares or $1,263,000 and cash of $96,000.  This was added to the purchase price and recorded as an increase to goodwill in the second quarter of fiscal 2011.

11.
United States Test Laboratory, LLC earn-out payment

Payment of earn-out consideration for United States Test Laboratory, LLC (USTL) of $2,053,000 was made on March 5, 2010. The earn-out consideration was previously added to the purchase price and recorded as an increase to goodwill in fiscal 2010.

12.
Sale of Virginia Property

On April 22, 2010, the Company sold its property in Fredericksburg, Virginia for a sales price of $3,395,000.  $1,000,000 will be paid to the Company in 120 monthly installments under a promissory note at an 8.5% interest rate. The gain of $3,017,000 from the sale of the property was included in other income in the first quarter.

13.
Subsequent Events

Amended and Restated Credit Agreement

On November 10, 2010, the Company entered into an amended and restated credit agreement with Comerica Bank, as administrative agent, joint lead arranger, bookrunner and as a lender, U.S. Bank National Association, as joint lead arranger, syndication agent and as a lender, and Bank of the West, as a lender, pursuant to which the Company obtained $65 million in senior secured bank financing, consisting of a $20 million five-year term loan, a $25 million five-year revolving credit line and a $20 million five-year acquisition credit line. Funds borrowed under the amended and restated credit agreement are to be used for general corporate purposes, except for funds borrowed under the $20 million five-year acquisition credit line which are to be used for the purchase of certain machinery and equipment or in connection with certain acquisitions.

 
10


Principal and Interest Payments. The following summarizes the principal and interest payments applicable to the credit facilities available under the amended and restated credit agreement:

Term Loan. The Company is required to repay the $20 million five-year term loan in equal quarterly principal installments of $500,000 commencing on February 1, 2011 until November 10, 2015, the maturity date, when all remaining outstanding principal plus accrued interest thereon is due and payable in full. Interest accrues at a specified margin plus either: (i) the greatest of (a) the prime rate announced by Comerica Bank, (b) the federal funds effective rate as published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York plus 1.0%, and (c) a daily adjusting LIBOR rate plus 1.0%; or (ii) a rate based on LIBOR. The Company refers to the rates described in clauses (i) and (ii) in the preceding sentence, respectively, as the "Base Rate" and as the "Eurodollar Rate." The specific per annum interest rate will be, at the Company’s option, either (I) the Base Rate plus a specified margin ranging between 100 and 175 basis points depending on the Company’s consolidated total debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio or (II) the Eurodollar Rate plus a specified margin ranging between 200 and 275 basis points depending on the Company’s consolidated total debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio. In the case of interest that is based on the Base Rate, interest is payable monthly in arrears on the first day of each month.  In the case of interest that is based on the Eurodollar Rate, interest is payable at the end of each interest period, which is defined as one, two, three or six months after the applicable loan is disbursed to us (except that with respect to six month interest periods, interest is payable at three month intervals).

Revolving Credit Line. The Company is required to repay the outstanding principal under the revolving credit line on November 10, 2015, the maturity date. Interest accrues at the Company’s option at either (i) the Base Rate plus a specified margin ranging between 75 and 150 basis points depending on the Company’s consolidated total debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio or (ii) the Eurodollar Rate plus a specified margin ranging between 175 and 250 basis points depending on the Company’s consolidated total debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio.  In the case of interest that is based on the Base Rate, interest is payable monthly in arrears on the first day of each month.  In the case of interest that is based on the Eurodollar Rate, interest is payable at the end of each interest period, which is defined as one, two, three or six months after the applicable advance is disbursed to us (except that with respect to six month interest periods, interest is payable at three month intervals).

Acquisition Credit Line. With respect to any credit advance under this line that is used to finance the purchase of eligible machinery and equipment, the Company is required to make principal payments in an amount equal to 5% of the aggregate original principal amount of such credit advance. Such principal payments are due quarterly after the date such credit advance is made, until November 10, 2015, the  maturity date (when all remaining outstanding principal plus accrued interest thereon is due and payable in full).

With respect to any credit advance under this line that is used to finance eligible acquisitions, the Company is required to make quarterly principal payments commencing one year after the date such credit advance is made, until November 10, 2015, the maturity date (when all remaining outstanding principal plus accrued interest thereon is due and payable in full). No principal payments are due during the first year. The amount of such quarterly principal payments is 1.25% of the aggregate original principal amount of such credit advance during the second year, increasing to 2.50% during the third year and increasing to 3.75% during the fourth and fifth years.

Interest on the acquisition credit line accrues at the Company’s option at either (i) the Base Rate plus a specified margin ranging between 100 and 175 basis points depending on the Company’s consolidated total debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio or (ii) the Eurodollar Rate plus a specified margin ranging between 200 and 275 basis points depending on the Company’s consolidated total debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio. In the case of interest that is based on the Base Rate, interest is payable monthly in arrears on the first day of each month following the disbursement of an advance.  In the case of interest that is based on the Eurodollar Rate, interest is payable at the end of each interest period, which is defined as one, two, three or six months after the applicable advance is disbursed to us (except that with respect to six month interest periods, interest is payable at three month intervals). For additional information, please refer to the Company’s Form 8-K filed on November 17, 2010.

Subsequent events have been evaluated up to and including the date these financial statements were issued.

 
11


ITEM   2.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters addressed in this Item 2 contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "may", "will", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "continue", "behave" and similar words. Financial information contained herein, to the extent it is predictive of financial condition and results of operations that would have occurred on the basis of certain stated assumptions may also be characterized as forward-looking statements. Although forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made, and information believed by management to be reasonable, no assurance can be given that such statements will prove to be correct. Such statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties occur, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated.

These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. This discussion should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2010 and the  consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report.

GENERAL

The Company is a diversified business to business services organization that supplies technical services to the defense, aerospace, telecommunications, automotive, energy and high technology markets. Through its wide range of testing facilities and certification services, the Company’s services allow its customers the ability to sell their products globally and enhance their overall competitiveness.  NTS is accredited by numerous national and international technical organizations which allow the Company to have its test data accepted in most countries.

The Company operates facilities throughout the United States and in Japan, Vietnam, Canada and Germany, providing highly trained technical personnel for engineering services, product certification, product safety testing and product evaluation. In addition, it performs management registration and certification services to ISO related standards.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated quarterly financial statements and notes thereto.  All information is based upon unaudited operating results of the Company for the three and nine-month periods ended October 31, 2010 and 2009.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
REVENUES
                       
Nine months ended October 31,
 
2010
   
% Change
   
2009
   
Diff
 
(Dollars in thousands)
                       
Total revenues
  $ 109,679       21.6 %   $ 90,229     $ 19,450  

For the nine months ended October 31, 2010, consolidated revenues increased by $19,450,000 or 21.6% when compared to the same period in fiscal 2010.  Organic growth of $11,344,000 or 12.6% was primarily due to continued strong performance in the aerospace and defense markets as a result of the Company’s investments in additional capability and capacity, improvement in the automotive market and an increase in the registration service business. Acquisition growth of $8,106,000 or 9.0% was from the purchase of Unitek Technical Services on November 30, 2009.

GROSS PROFIT
                       
Nine months ended October 31,
 
2010
   
% Change
   
2009
   
Diff
 
(Dollars in thousands)
                       
                         
Total
  $ 30,810       23.9 %   $ 24,872     $ 5,938  
% to total revenues
    28.1 %             27.6 %     0.5 %

 
12


Total gross profit for the nine months ended October 31, 2010 increased by $5,938,000 or 23.9% when compared to the same period in fiscal 2010.  Gross profit margin increased slightly primarily due to the improvement in the automotive market and improved efficiencies. Gross margins in the remaining markets were relatively the same as the prior year.

SELLING, GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE
Nine months ended October 31,
 
2010
   
% Change
   
2009
   
Diff
 
(Dollars in thousands)
                       
                         
Total
  $ 23,309       19.3 %   $ 19,546     $ 3,763  
% to total revenues
    21.3 %             21.7 %     (0.4 )%

Total selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $3,763,000 or 19.3% for the nine months ended October 31, 2010 when compared to the same period in fiscal 2010. Selling, general and administrative expenses at Unitek, acquired on November 30, 2009, were $947,000. The remaining increase of $2,816,000 or 14.4% in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to increased legal expense related to certain shareholder, acquisition and employment issues, compensation and other sales costs associated with the investment in the engineering services group, innovation and marketing activities and costs and incentive compensation related to the increase in revenues.

OPERATING INCOME
                       
Nine months ended October 31,
 
2010
   
% Change
   
2009
   
Diff
 
(Dollars in thousands)
                       
                         
Total
  $ 7,390       40.1 %   $ 5,275     $ 2,115  
% to total revenues
    6.7 %             5.8 %     0.9 %

Operating income for the nine months ended October 31, 2010 increased by $2,115,000 or 40.1% when compared to the same period in fiscal 2010, primarily as a result of the increase in gross profit, partially offset by the increase in selling, general and administrative expenses. Operating income as a percentage of revenues increased by 0.9% to 6.7% in the current year when compared to the same period in the prior year.

INTEREST EXPENSE

Net interest expense decreased by $154,000 to $866,000 in the nine months ended October 31, 2010 when compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily due to lower interest rates and lower average debt balances in the current year compared to the same period in the prior year.

OTHER INCOME

Other income was $3,719,000 for the nine months ended October 31, 2010, compared to other income of $156,000 for the same period in the prior year. The income in the current year was primarily due to the gain on the sale of the Company’s Virginia property of $3,017,000 and the net gain recognized from insurance recovery of $1,378,000 related to fires at the Company’s Fullerton and Plano facilities in the prior year, partially offset by other non-recurring expenses.

INCOME TAXES

The income tax provision rate for the nine months ended October 31, 2010 remained the same at 40.7% when compared to the same period in the prior year. Management has determined that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized on the basis of offsetting them against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities. The Company analyzes the value of the deferred income tax asset quarterly in conjunction with external reporting.

NET INCOME

Net income for the nine months ended October 31, 2010 was $5,671,000 compared to $2,517,000 for the same period in fiscal 2010, an increase of $3,154,000 or 125.3%. This increase was primarily due to the $3,563,000 increase in other income and the $2,115,000 increase in operating income, partially offset by higher income taxes.

 
13

 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
                       
REVENUES
                       
Three months ended October 31,
 
2010
   
% Change
   
2009
   
Diff
 
(Dollars in thousands)
                       
Total revenues
  $ 39,022       19.0 %   $ 32,801     $ 6,221  

For the three months ended October 31, 2010, consolidated revenues increased by $6,221,000 or 19.0% when compared to the same period in fiscal 2010.  Organic growth of $3,211,000 or 9.8% was primarily due to an increase in revenues in the aerospace and defense markets as a result of the Company’s investments in additional capability and capacity, improvement in the automotive market and an increase in the registration service business. Acquisition growth of $3,010,000 or 9.2% was from the purchase of Unitek Technical Services on November 30, 2009.

GROSS PROFIT
                       
Three months ended October 31,
 
2010
   
% Change
   
2009
   
Diff
 
(Dollars in thousands)
                       
                         
Total
  $ 10,713       14.8 %   $ 9,330     $ 1,383  
% to total revenues
    27.5 %             28.4 %     (1.0 )%

Total gross profit for the three months ended October 31, 2010 increased by $1,383,000 or 14.8% when compared to the same period in fiscal 2010.  Gross profit margin, as a percentage of revenues decreased by 1.0%. Quarter to quarter fluctuations in gross margin reflect changes in the mix of services sold and capacity utilization at some of the Company’s recently expanded operations.

SELLING, GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE
Three months ended October 31,
 
2010
   
% Change
   
2009
   
Diff
 
(Dollars in thousands)
                       
                         
Total
  $ 8,544       21.8 %   $ 7,013     $ 1,531  
% to total revenues
    21.9 %             21.4 %     0.5 %

Total selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $1,531,000 or 21.8% for the three months ended October 31, 2010 when compared to the same period in fiscal 2010. Selling, general and administrative expenses at Unitek, acquired on November 30, 2009, were $329,000. The remaining increase of $1,202,000 or 17.1% in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to increased legal expense related to certain shareholder, acquisition and employment issues, compensation and other sales costs associated with the investment in the engineering services group, innovation and marketing activities and costs and incentive compensation related to the increase in revenues.

OPERATING INCOME
                       
Three months ended October 31,
 
2010
   
% Change
   
2009
   
Diff
 
(Dollars in thousands)
                       
                         
Total
  $ 2,105       (8.5 )%   $ 2,301     $ (196 )
% to total revenues
    5.4 %             7.0 %     (1.6 )%

Operating income for the three months ended October 31, 2010 decreased by $196,000 or 8.5% when compared to the same period in fiscal 2010, primarily as a result of the increase in selling, general and administrative expenses partially offset by the increase in gross profit.

 
14


INTEREST EXPENSE

Net interest expense decreased by $14,000 to $283,000 in the three months ended October 31, 2010 when compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily due to lower interest rates and lower average debt balances in the current quarter compared to the same period in the prior year.

OTHER INCOME

Other income was $530,000 for the three months ended October 31, 2010, compared to other income of $21,000 for the same period in the prior year. The income in the current quarter was primarily due to the net gain recognized from insurance recovery of $543,000 related to fires at the Company’s Fullerton and Plano facilities in the prior year, partially offset by other non-recurring expenses.
 
INCOME TAXES

The income tax provision rate for the three months ended October 31, 2010 was 43.4% compared to the 41.0% income tax rate for the same period in the prior year. Management has determined that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will be realized on the basis of offsetting them against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities. The Company analyzes the value of the deferred income tax asset quarterly in conjunction with external reporting.

NET INCOME

Net income for the three months ended October 31, 2010 was $1,132,000 compared to $1,125,000 for the same period in fiscal 2010, an increase of $7,000 or 0.6%.

OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

None.

BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

The aerospace and defense markets generate approximately 67% of the Company’s overall revenue as compared to 60% for the nine months ended October 31, 2009.  Commercial airplane deliveries have slowed due to the global economic conditions of the past two years, exacerbated by Airbus’ and Boeing’s inability to field the A380 and B787, respectively.  Market conditions, however, are expected to rebound with the B787 (Dreamliner), now in flight test and aging fleets needing replacement by more fuel efficient aircraft.  Forecasts call for some 29,000 new aircraft valued at over $3.2 trillion through 2020.  Original Equipment Manufacturers continue to move toward large scale integration, consolidation around core competencies, outsourcing, and globalization.  We expect these trends to continue to present significant opportunity for NTS to fill capability gaps that emerge in the product development cycles of its customers.  The careful positioning of NTS’ Life Cycle Product Services—engineering, testing, and supply chain services—allows the Company to profit in both down and up markets.  In the down market, NTS fills the capability gaps that its customers cannot afford to maintain on a full-time basis.  When the market is up, NTS fills capacity gaps during surge periods.

The defense market is subject to the funding vagaries of the current administration and a greater propensity for in-sourcing in certain areas.  Recently, NTS has seen increased activity from government laboratories in competition with its body armor testing. To date, there has been no decline in business, but NTS could be impacted negatively on future, related body armor contracts.  Other high-profile programs have been eliminated, but Defense Research, Development, Testing, and Evaluation (RDT&E) spending is expected to be up 4% at around $80 billion in the current year.  Severe political pressure has increased cost consciousness in the Department of Defense.  Today, there is heavy scrutiny on maintaining test and production schedules leading toward increased outsourcing from Government-run test facilities to independent private sector test labs.  NTS’ competitive cost structure and significant breadth of capability have resulted in increased market share.  As is the case in the aerospace market, the Company’s unique Life Cycle Product Services value proposition acts counter to defense market economic cycles, providing opportunity to fill gaps in growing and declining conditions.

The telecommunications market remains relatively flat with some signs of improvement, particularly in the Silicon Valley market. However the wireless market, a subset of the telecommunications market, is showing a relatively strong rebound. Carriers are delivering voice, video and data using fiber networks. New means of delivery may increase the demand for certification of suppliers’ premises equipment, and certification of new central office equipment. The Company, with multiple EMI and EMC facilities, including its Elliott Laboratories facilities in the Silicon Valley, is well equipped to grow in this market.

NTS made substantial investments in the last two years in engineering services and the Company is now well positioned to support the anticipated increased demand for integrated engineering services in the aerospace and defense markets as a result of continued outsourcing activity. The Company has developed capability and capacity to support large and regional commercial transport aircraft and business aircraft. The focus within the defense market is on developing capability and capacity around weapons systems. The Company anticipates a growing demand for engineering services for military aircraft, general aviation, space craft and unmanned vehicles.

 
15


The energy market, is improving in both nuclear and solar energy, including power generation and distribution. The Company also provides dedication and certification work for the international community. The Company believes there is a positive outlook for this market as the government and industry search for alternative energy solutions.

In the automotive industry, alternative fuel vehicle testing is showing signs of growth; however the industry in general remains relatively weak.  The Company has experienced a recent uptick in orders particularly from legislation driven emissions programs.

Notwithstanding the foregoing and because of factors affecting the Company's operating results, past financial performance should not be considered to be a reliable indicator of future performance.

 
16


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Net cash provided by operating activities of $7,345,000 in the nine months ended October 31, 2010 primarily consisted of net income of $5,671,000, adjusted for non-cash items of $5,443,000, deferred income taxes of $408,000, undistributed earnings of affiliate of $400,000, share-based compensation of $398,000 and other adjustments of $63,000, partially offset by gain on sale of assets of $3,017,000, changes in working capital of  $1,500,000, recoveries of receivables of $380,000 and gain on investments of $141,000.  Net cash provided by operating activities of $5,798,000 in the nine months ended October 31, 2009 primarily consisted of net income of $2,517,000 adjusted for non-cash items of $5,411,000 in depreciation and amortization, write off of receivables of $222,000, share-based compensation of $229,000, undistributed earnings of affiliate of $97,000, life insurance premium of $49,000,  and loss on retirement of assets of 8,000, offset by changes in working capital of $2,342,000, gain on investments of $212,000 and deferred income taxes of $181,000.

Net cash used in investing activities in the nine months ended October 31, 2010 of $7,593,000 was primarily attributable to capital spending of $8,975,000 and cash used for acquisitions related earn-out payments of $2,149,000, investment in retirement funds of $563,000 and investment in life insurance of $25,000, partially offset by proceeds from sale of property of $2,293,000 and proceeds from sale of life insurance of $1,826,000.  Net cash used in investing activities in the nine months ended October 31, 2009 of $5,630,000 was primarily attributable to capital spending of $4,760,000, investment in retirement funds of $527,000, investment in life insurance of $184,000 and acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired of $159,000.

Net cash used in financing activities in the nine months ended October 31, 2010 of $1,911,000 consisted of repayment of debt of $6,744,000, cash dividends paid of $710,000, net cash dividends paid by NQA, Inc. of $99,000, partially offset by proceeds from borrowing of $4,482,000, proceeds from stock options exercised of $800,000 and tax benefit from stock options exercised of $360,000.  Net cash used in financing activities in the nine months ended October 31, 2009 of $2,896,000 consisted of repayment of debt of $5,126,000, cash dividends paid of $566,000 and common stock repurchase of $58,000, partially offset by proceeds from borrowing of $2,808,000 and proceeds from stock options exercised of $46,000.

On November 10, 2010, the Company secured a senior credit facility of up to $65 million from a banking group led by Comerica Bank that includes Bank of the West and U.S. Bank. The credit facility includes a $20 million term loan, a $25 million revolving credit line and a $20 million acquisition line.  This credit facility, which will mature in 5 years, amends and restates the former credit facility which consisted of a $16.5 million revolving credit line and approximately $16.3 million in existing outstanding term debt.  Interest rates under the new credit agreement are at either LIBOR plus a range of 175 to 275 basis points, or at Comerica Bank's prime rate plus a range of 75 to 175 basis points.

The previous Credit Agreement was led by Comerica Bank, as agent and lender, holding 60%, and Bank of the West, as lender, holding 40% had the following balances remaining as of October 31, 2010:

(i)
$16,500,000 revolving line of credit with interest rate at the agent’s prime rate less 25 basis points, with an option for the Company to convert to loans at the Libor rate plus 200 basis points for periods ranging from 30 days to 365 days, with minimum advances of $1,000,000. There is an annual fee of 25 basis points and a quarterly unused credit fee of 25 basis points. The outstanding balance on the revolving line of credit at October 31, 2010 was $12,500,000. This balance is reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as long-term. The amount available on the line of credit was $4,000,000 as of October 31, 2010.

(ii)
$9,000,000 in Term Loan A which was used to consolidate previous term loans. The interest rate is at the agent’s prime rate less 25 basis points, with an option for the Company to convert to loans at the Libor rate plus 225 basis points for periods ranging from 30 days to 365 days, with minimum advances of $1,000,000.  Interest and principal payments of $321,000 are made quarterly with the remaining principal due at the maturity date. The outstanding balance on Term Loan A at October 31, 2010 was $5,005,000.

(iii)
$12,650,000 in Term Loan B which was used to acquire United States Test Laboratory on December 5, 2007. The interest rate is at the agent’s prime rate less 25 basis points, with an option for the Company to convert to loans at the Libor rate plus 225 basis points for periods ranging from 30 days to 365 days, with minimum advances of $1,000,000.  Interest is paid quarterly and the principal amount is amortized at the rate of 0% during the first year of the note, 5% in the second year, 10% in the third year and 15% in the fourth and fifth years.  The remaining principal is due at the maturity date. The outstanding balance on Term Loan B at October 31, 2010 was $7,776,000.

(iv)
$6,000,000 in Term Loan C which was used to acquire Elliott Laboratories and pay off two existing mortgage notes with other banks. The interest rate is at the agent’s prime rate with an option for the Company to convert to loans at the Libor rate plus 250 basis points for periods ranging from 30 days to 365 days, with minimum advances of $1,000,000. The principal amount is amortized over a seven-year period. The outstanding balance on Term Loan C at October 31, 2010 was $3,753,000.

 
17


In addition to the Comerica agreement, the Company has an additional $3,148,000 in equipment line balances which were used to finance various test equipment with terms of 60 months for each equipment schedule at interest rates ranging from 5.56% to 7.47%. The Company was compliant with all bank covenants as of October 31, 2010.

The Company’s 50% owned subsidiary, NQA, Inc., has total borrowings of $1,026,000 at October 31, 2010, for the acquisitions of Unitek Technical Services, Inc., TRA Certification, Inc. and International Management Systems, Inc. (IMS).

Management is not aware of any significant demands for capital funds that may materially affect short or long-term liquidity in the form of large fixed asset acquisitions, unusual working capital commitments or contingent liabilities.  In addition, the Company has made no material commitments for capital expenditures. The Company’s long-term debt may be accelerated if the Company fails to meet its covenants with its banks. The Company believes that the cash flow from operations and the revolving line of credit will be sufficient to fund its operations for the next twelve months.  The Company has from time to time made acquisitions of other businesses.  The Company believes that it has adequate borrowing capability to absorb such acquisitions.

 
18


ITEM 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

There have been no material changes in the Company’s quantitative and qualitative market risk since the disclosure in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2010, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2010.

ITEM 4.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer carried out an evaluation with the participation of the Company’s management, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Changes in Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting

As required by Rule 13a-15(d) under the Exchange Act, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, with the participation of the Company’s management, also conducted an evaluation of the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting to determine whether any changes occurred during the Company’s first fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to affect, the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting.  Based on that evaluation, there has been no such change during the Company’s current fiscal quarter.

Limitations of the Effectiveness

A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the internal control system are met.  Because of the inherent limitations of any internal control system, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues, if any, within a company have been detected.  Notwithstanding these limitations, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives.  The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were, in fact, effective at the “reasonable assurance” level as of the end of the period covered by this report.

 
19


PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.
Legal Proceedings

From time to time the Company may be involved in judicial or administrative proceedings concerning matters arising in the ordinary course of business.  Management does not expect that any of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, cash flows or results of operations.

Item 1A.
Risk Factors

There have been no material changes in the Company’s risk factors since the disclosure in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2010 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2010.

Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities

None.

Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4.
(Removed and Reserved)


Item 5.
Other Information

None.

Item 6.
Exhibits
 
10.21 - Shareholder Rights Agreement dated September 21, 2010 between National Technical Systems, Inc. and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as Rights Agent. (filed with the Company’s 8-K on September 22, 2010 and is incorporated herein by reference thereto).
 
10.22 - Form of Certificate of Determination of the Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock. (filed with the Company’s 8-K on September 22, 2010 and is incorporated herein by reference thereto).
 
10.23 - Amended and Restated Credit Agreement made as of November 10, 2010, by and among the financial institutions from time to time signatory thereto, Comerica Bank, as Administrative Agent, Joint Lead Arranger and Bookrunner, U.S. Bank National Association, as Joint Lead Arranger and Syndication Agent, and National Technical Systems, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries. (filed with the Company’s 8-K on November 17, 2010 and is incorporated herein by reference thereto).
 
10.24 - Amended and Restated Security Agreement dated November 10, 2010, by and among National Technical Systems, Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries in favor of Comerica Bank as administrative agent for and on behalf of the lenders. (filed with the Company’s 8-K on November 17, 2010 and is incorporated herein by reference thereto).
 
31.1 - Certification of the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2 - Certification of the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1 - Certification of the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2 - Certification of the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 
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SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

NATIONAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, INC.

Date:
December 14, 2010
 
By: 
    /s/ Raffy Lorentzian
 
     
Raffy Lorentzian
     
Senior Vice President
     
Chief Financial Officer
       
     
(Signing on behalf of the
     
registrant and as principal
     
financial officer)
 
 
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