Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center Adds Two Experts to Lean/Six Sigma and Quality Teams

PLYMOUTH, Mich. - Nov. 2, 2016 - PRLog -- The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center) has announced the addition of Chuck Werner and Andy Nichols to its Lean/Six Sigma and Quality teams. Werner was named Lean Program Manager while Nichols joined as a Quality Program Manager. The hiring announcement was made by Michael Coast, President of The Center.

"The cornerstone of a successful and efficient manufacturing process is a certified quality management system. At The Center, we are fortunate to have a Lean/Six Sigma and Quality group that is comprised of individuals with such an extraordinary depth of knowledge" said Coast. "Our expanded Lean/Six Sigma and Quality teams will enable The Center to provide valuable expertise and guidance that will help enhance quality and propel growth for Michigan's manufacturers."

In his new position, Werner identifies opportunities to provide mentoring and training to close and improve performance gaps for manufacturers. Werner has 27 years of experience in manufacturing, mostly as a Tier I supplier in the automotive industry. His process knowledge includes: glass manufacturing, injection molding, adhesive systems, knitting, jet and tank dye, fabric finishing, flame lamination and welding processes (spot and MIG). He holds a Bachelor of Business Leadership degree from Baker College and achieved his certification as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt in 1996 and his Master Black Belt certification in 2011. Additionally, Werner is a certified Lead Assessor, Training Within Industry (TWI) Master Trainer and is certified in OSHA Compliance and Accident Reduction.

Nichols is responsible for guiding and implementing various types of quality systems including: ISO 9001, IATF16949 and AS9100. Nichols brings more than 40 years of expertise in a wide variety of roles and industries, with a particular focus on quality management systems in manufacturing organizations. Prior to joining The Center, Nichols was the East Coast Regional Sales Manager for NQA, a "Top 5" Global Certification Body, responsible for significant sales growth in a highly competitive marketplace. He has authored two books, "Exploding the Myths Surrounding ISO 9000–A Practical Implementation Guide" (published by ITG in April 2013) and "A Guide to Effective Internal Management Systems Audits (published May 2014).

In addition to his extensive ISO 9000 Management Systems experience, Nichols has worked with ISO 14000, ISO/IEC 17024 and ISO/IEC 17025. He also has been an IRCA and RABQSA accredited Lead Auditor. Nichols received a "Higher National Certificate" in Mechanical Engineering, with an elective in Electronics, and is an Incorporated Engineer (CEI) "I. Eng."

Celebrating its 25^th anniversary, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (The Center) is an organization dedicated to supporting Michigan manufacturers to work smarter, to compete and to prosper. The Center offers personalized consulting services to meet the needs of clients in virtually every aspect of their businesses. The Center is affiliated with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and is part of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP Program). The Center also is closely affiliated with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) with the shared goal of making Michigan businesses vibrant, driving GDP growth, and creating new and lasting jobs. For more information, visit www.the-center.org.