Born from Reinvention

Infinity Controls was born out of a turning point both for the economy and for founder Lynette Barry. During the turbulent 2006–2008 downturn, Barry realized the financial sector she had excelled in was shifting in ways that no longer aligned with her goals or values. What many viewed as an economic collapse, she saw as an opening to reinvent herself entirely.

“I had an entrepreneurial seizure,” she said with a laugh, describing the moment she decided to build something of her own. “It was brave and stupid all at the same time, but it was the right thing to do.”

Armed with grit, curiosity, and no formal engineering degree, Barry launched Infinity Controls in Tampa Bay unaware that it would one day become a key supplier to some of the world’s largest technology companies.

From Field Projects to a National Reputation

For years, Infinity Controls operated like a tactical strike team for industrial equipment: taking on electrical engineering projects for machines ranging from 10 years old to half a century.

Often, these machines came with no drawings, no schematics, and no scope of work. Barry and her engineers would interview operators, transcribe the conversations, and build entire control systems from scratch: design, schematics, installation, programming, start-up, and commissioning.

These were high-pressure, high-stakes projects. Downtime in manufacturing can be catastrophic, and Infinity Controls was known for stepping in where others would not.

During COVID, while many competitors shut down, Barry’s team continued working, supporting essential infrastructure across Tampa, including the municipal water system. She sent engineers across the country to keep critical facilities running when local vendors refused to travel.

That willingness to serve in a crisis helped land Infinity Controls on the Inc. 5000 list three years in a row; a point of pride Barry displays on the plaques in her lobby.

A Strategic Pivot: Becoming an OEM Powerhouse

Infinity Controls’ most dramatic transformation came when an OEM customer in the data center cooling market approached them with an opportunity. What began as a small engagement quickly grew into a high-volume manufacturing partnership supplying control panels for some of the largest tech companies on earth, including the very company whose platform powered the interview.

The result? A full conversion of the business model.

Where projects once represented 80–90% of revenue, today OEM production represents that same share. Infinity now produces 80–100 panels per month and is preparing to scale to 200–300 per month next year to support a customer whose revenue is projected to grow from $600 million to $1.6 billion in a single year.

• tripled the size of her shop in 90 days
• doubled and then tripled staffing
• implemented an ERP
• expanded into the 24,000 sq. ft. facility next door
• restructured her leadership team
• created deputy roles for every executive position

All without compromising quality, culture, or speed.

“It’s expensive, stressful, and difficult,” she said. “But I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel and it’s not a train.”

Mission: Revitalizing American Manufacturing Through Automation

Infinity Controls’ mission is clear: revitalize American manufacturing through intelligent automation.

They are not simply assembling control panels; they actively support OEMs in design, engineering, prototyping, and on-site commissioning. Barry’s team flies directly to customer facilities, working together during start-ups to ensure seamless integration.

This level of involvement has made the company indispensable to its partners and respected across the industry.

A People-First Culture with High Standards

Despite hypergrowth, Barry is emphatic that culture matters.

She supports her workforce with:

• strict policies that provide structure and accountability
• executive director inspections performed daily
• full training programs, including a classroom on-site
• Support for employees rebuilding their lives after catastrophic events
• mentorship partnerships with local workforce nonprofits
• Friday potlucks, a shop pellet grill, and company events at her home

Her rule for hiring is simple:

“The initial sniff test is – would we want you at our backyard BBQ and how we have an emphasis on kindness and accountability”

Infinity Controls now employs people from all backgrounds including those overcoming personal hardship and provides them with training that transforms them into what Barry proudly calls “panel ninjas.”

Community Impact Beyond the Shop Floor

Barry personally volunteers 8–12 hours each week, supporting local programs for community betterment. She teaches people how to study effectively, become good students, and improve their lives.

Her philosophy:

“We grow so we can help more people.”

And she means it. Infinity Controls now employs new people every week offering opportunity, structure, and stability to those who may have never had it before.

Looking Ahead

With the AI boom accelerating data center construction nationwide, Infinity Controls sees no end in sight for demand. The company is preparing for another year of aggressive scale, deeper customer partnerships, and continued expansion across its Tampa facilities.

Barry predicts Infinity Controls will be the #1 GrowFL honoree next year and based on the trajectory, it is hard to argue.

“What we’re building is bigger than control panels,” she said. “We’re building a future for our team, our community, and American manufacturing.”

About GrowFL’s Programs

GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch (FLCTW)

The Florida Companies to Watch program, hosted annually by GrowFL, celebrates top second-stage companies across the state for their impressive growth and entrepreneurial success. This prestigious program recognizes 50 standout businesses each year, chosen from hundreds of nominees. Honorees are celebrated for their innovation, economic impact on Florida’s economy, and the ability to scale effectively. Through FLCTW, GrowFL not only acknowledges these companies’ achievements but also brings them into a spotlight that enhances their visibility in the marketplace. The event offers an extraordinary opportunity for networking, sharing best practices, and gaining exposure to potential investors and partners, making it a cornerstone for fostering business growth and recognition within Florida’s vibrant business community.