National Technical Systems Inc. (NASD: NTSC) said revenue in its technical solutions division, which includes staffing services, rose 7.1% year over year to $8.8 million in the company's fiscal second quarter ended July 31.

CEO William McGinnis said cost-cutting measures boosted the division's operating income.

Total revenue for the quarter rose 16.0% to $36.0 million. Calabasas CA-based National Technical Systems provides product testing, staffing and other services.

Gross margin improved to 27.0% from 26.2%.

Net income increased 46.8% for the quarter to $1.1 million from $770,000 in the same period last year.

National Technical Systems Inc. (NASD: NTSC)
For the fiscal second quarter ended July 31, 2008, compared with the same period in the previous year.
Revenue: $36.0 million, +16.0%
Net income: $1.1 million, +46.8%