Mark Wells

I am the President of Prime Axis Group LLC, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business specializing in metal product manufacturing for the industrial, defense, aerospace, and nuclear sectors. My mission is to strengthen American manufacturing by connecting government agencies and industry with dependable manufacturing solutions while helping expand our nation’s industrial base.

I proudly served four years in the United States Navy as a Hull Maintenance Technician Second Class, where I supported the readiness of the Fifth and Seventh Fleets through the maintenance and repair of both surface ships and submarines. The Navy transformed me from a scatterbrained delinquent into the leader I am today by instilling discipline, accountability, and a commitment to service. The loss of several shipmates and close friends also shaped who I am, motivating me to honor their sacrifice by living a life of purpose and contributing to something greater than myself.

Since leaving the military, I have built my career across nearly every major metal manufacturing sector, including aerospace, automotive, industrial, defense, shipbuilding, and nuclear manufacturing. My background combines hands-on experience in welding, machining, fabrication, estimating, operations, and business development with formal education in business and finance. Today, I work with manufacturers to improve operational efficiency, strengthen customer relationships, and increase revenue by refining processes and identifying opportunities for growth.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and am currently pursuing my MBA while continuing to grow Prime Axis Group. My vision is to build a manufacturing company that supports critical government and commercial programs across multiple industries. I am currently focused on expanding into industrial and naval manufacturing, with the goal of acquiring additional manufacturing facilities and building the production capacity needed to support large-scale projects.

I am pursuing the National Veteran Small Business Coalition Fellowship because I believe there is no substitute for learning from those who have already achieved what I aspire to accomplish. I want to deepen my understanding of the federal acquisition process, build relationships with experienced government contractors, and continue developing as both a business owner and leader. At the same time, I hope to contribute my own experiences in manufacturing, leadership, and business growth to support fellow veterans as they build and grow their businesses.

Growing up homeless taught me that success is never guaranteed, it is earned through perseverance, discipline, and a willingness to keep moving forward. Throughout my life I have had outstanding mentors as well as difficult ones, and each has taught me valuable leadership lessons. Those experiences have shaped my leadership philosophy of leading with decisiveness, adaptability, and strength while remaining grounded in integrity and service. Live honestly and unapologetically; I believe we only get one opportunity to make an impact, and I intend to make the most of it.

Outside of work, I enjoy competitive service rifle shooting, golf, swimming, pheasant hunting, spending time at our family cabin in northern Michigan, serving in my church, and, most importantly, spending time with my wife and children.