Course Descriptions
Lean Certification is offered through a partnership with the Northwest Wisconsin Manufacturing Outreach Center, headquartered at University of Wisconsin-Stout, and the Wisconsin Technical College System. NWMOC Lean experts who spend their days working with manufacturers around the state come to the classroom to deliver targeted training with real world application. Their expertise and hands-on experience working with manufacturers on the shop floor day in and day out -- will provide you with answers and solutions you can immediately put into practice.
Principles of Lean Manufacturing
This first workshop introduces a systematic approach to eliminating waste in manufacturing processes. Learn how to eliminate the eight forms of waste; use the 5S approach to organization; reduce batch sizes; utilize point-of-use storage; use pull systems; implement cellular/flow; implement quality at the source; and involve employees. Live simulations provide realistic before and after scenarios.
Value Stream Mapping (VSM)
VSM is a method you can use to visually depict material and information flow through an operation. You will learn the principles and techniques of the Value Stream Mapping process, which will enable you to map the current state of a sample company, apply Lean concepts to develop and draw an improved future state map, and identify the next steps needed to achieve the future state. You will gain the ability to map your real work processes.
Principles of Cellular/Flow Manufacturing
When processes are balanced, the product flows continuously and customer demands are easily met. Cellular/Flow Manufacturing links manual and machine operations into the most efficient combination of resources to maximize value-added content while minimizing waste. The most efficient combination implies the concept of process balancing. Only in a balanced process will the product continually flow. As a result, parts movement is minimized, wait time between operations is decreased, inventory is reduced, and productivity is increased..
The 5S System
The principles of 5S are based on the simple idea that manufacturing improvements begin with a workplace that is organized, clean, and standardized and contains only what is required. Discover how to enhance your organization's communication and productivity. Learn how to employ 5S methods and implement visual workplace techniques in your operations. Return to your organization with skills that will allow you to implement positive visible change.
Quick Changeover/Setup Reduction
Builds on the principles of the Single Minute Exchange of Dies (SMED) system to dramatically reduce or eliminate changeover time. The four-step Changeover Improvement Process is used to help companies design no-cost/low-cost solutions to reduce changeover time. This process enables the business to meet customer demands for high-quality, low-cost products, delivered quickly and without the expense of excess inventory. The systematic process includes analyzing a changeover and then applying quick-changeover techniques to reduce the machine or line downtime.
Total Productive Maintenance (TPM)
Reducing inventory imposes a need to maximize equipment productivity. Learn to analyze Overall Equipment Effectiveness to determine how much equipment time is being used effectively. Find out why machine operators are your first resource for maintenance and consider effective, preventive, and predictive maintenance tools that help you reduce machine downtime and achieve autonomous maintenance.
Value Stream Management/Project Planning
This session was added to the program because the traditional management system does not work well in a Lean environment, and project planning and follow-through are key to success. You will learn the role and expectations of a Value Stream Manager and understand how to form and lead a team to drive organizational change. Also, you will gain appreciation for the power of the project plan and understand the Lean metrics that are used to measure success. This workshop will help you become a catalyst for change and ongoing improvements in your organization.
Implementation Project: Lean Manufacturing Event
This 3 to 5-day project is our opportunity to apply one or more of the Lean tools presented in the Certificate Program to a specific area of need in your business.
This one-on-one involvement with the NWMOC’s Project Manager is what makes our Certification Program truly complete. After completing the workshops, you will have the necessary background to identify waste and to set improvement plans in motion for your organization. The project is your opportunity to apply one of the Lean tools presented in the certificate series to a specific area of need in your business. In order for you to achieve the greatest success possible, we ask that this project be completed within three months of the last seminar. This is an integral part of the program because it enables you to apply your knowledge, thereby reinforcing what you have learned. At the same time, the Lean project that you complete will bring immediate benefits to your company.