Newly-acquired equipment and a need to improve overall efficiency led this Michigan fabrication firm to two TAAF co-funded training projects. For the first, the company brought in a consultant to provide operator training for its new laser cutter. The second project focused on improving process controls and core production practices. For that, the firm used the program to hire a lean expert who led its employees through a value stream mapping/process documentation process, taught management how to launch strategic productivity improvements, and also how to track success. The consultant then identified and guided the company through its first 3 improvement efforts. Total cost for both projects: $43,000 (TAAF paid 50%).
