In an effort to help their companies reduce costs, improve product quality and run more efficiently, three area leaders took their Lean skills to the next level by completing Moraine Park’s Six Sigma Black Belt training.
Jeremy Lehman, Alliance Laundry Systems, and Emily Chadwick and Orlando Soza, both of Grande Cheese Company, completed the training. In addition to preparing for the American Society for Quality (ASQ) exam to become a Certified Six Sigma Black Belt, participants made significant progress on a business project during the training. Participants presented their project’s progress to business representatives, sponsors and project champions during a completion ceremony March 6, 2023.
Participant’s projects sought to determine:
Whether the benefit of a product’s component outweighs the added cost and assembly
How to provide more flexibility and increase quality in a specific product line’s production process
How to reduce product failure and waste
Once completed, all of the projects are expected to improve companies’ bottom line through cost savings and waste reduction. Compared to Six Sigma Green Belt projects, Black Belt projects are expected to have a broader significance to the participants’ companies. According to Jeremy Lehman, “the skills acquired from this course will allow me to better mentor Green Belts within my organization”. Black Belts like Lehman will have a significant impact on Green Belts within the organization as they work to improve the company’s overall product quality and profitability.
If you are interested in Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt training, contact MPTC’s Economic & Workforce Development division at training@morainepark.edu or 920-924-3449.
The Moraine Park Technical College Economic and Workforce Development Department welcomed Malinda Moore (also known as Lindy) as the new Administrative Aide. In her role, Malinda provides administrative assistance and technical support to all facets of the Economic and Workforce Development team. Before joining MPTC, Malinda spent eight years as an Administrative Coordinator for a private real estate company.
Malinda started her educational journey at Moraine Park Technical College earning her Associates degree in Human Resource Management. She earned her Bachelors in Business Administration with a Human Resource concentration and a minor in Pre-Law at Marian University.
Malinda has traveled the world ranging from Canada, Ireland, Mexico, and even lived in Cape Town South Africa. She enjoys reading books, averaging over one hundred books a year. Her favorite genre to read is fantasy. If she’s not in another country reading a book, you’ll find her at a local trivia night sharpening her wits against other teams.
“It is so exciting to be back here, but this time as an employee. I had a positive experience here as a student. Learning how to create an enriching work environment and to develop myself personally. That has not changed since joining the EWD. They support me in my personal goals and have a wonderful team-based environment that cultivates innovation. I have learned so much in my short time here, and look forward to what is to come next. “
Workforce shortages, rising costs and high product demands are propelling area businesses to boost efficiency through Lean efforts. To that end, 11 area business professionals explored ways to eliminate waste, improve production quality and work more efficiently through Moraine Park’s Six Sigma Green Belt certification training.
Class members presented their final projects Monday, November 14, 2022, and received their certifications upon successfully completing the program. Program participants included Joel Arend, Whisker LLC; Jacinda Buss, Richelieu Foods Inc.; Kenneth Beckrow III, Tenneco; Andrew Ford, Alliance Laundry Systems; Cody Genthe, Keiding Inc.; Laura Libera, Grande Cheese Company; Bethany Newsome, Tenneco; Jinal Patel, Centro Inc.; Brian Rosik, Plastic Components Inc., a division of Rosti; Jon Vogt, Alliance Laundry Systems; and Travis Wuesthoff, Amsted Automotive. Presentations took place on the Moraine Park Technical College Fond du Lac campus with business representatives, sponsors and project champions attending.
The participants completed independent class projects, which included how variability in quality measures affect the final product; efforts in reducing scrap, defective components and production change-over time; ways to optimize the packing process; and how to increase throughput on a profitable production line. Participants that calculated a cost savings as part of their project averaged a $168,800 return on investment for such things as reduced scrap, the cost of escape due to shipping defective components and missed production opportunities.
Six Sigma training provides participants with techniques and tools needed to improve processes that results in better business performance. MPTC will be offering its next Six Sigma Green Belt Certification training on Mondays February 20-May 22, 2023. The deadline to register is January 31, 2023. For those who have completed Green Belt Certification, MPTC will offer a Black Belt Program from January 30-March 6, 2023. The deadline to register is January 6, 2023.
More than 50 leaders gained practical advice they can use to help build on the success of their businesses and organizations during Moraine Park Technical College’s inaugural Live2Lead event. Leaders from area businesses, as well as non-profit and educational organizations, heard from world-renowned leadership speakers during the live simulcast Oct. 8, 2021.
The event was offered in partnership with The John Maxwell Company, which helps individuals and companies reach their full potential through leadership coaching.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect and I was thrilled with the depth of the information shared by leaders that spoke that day,” said Shari Buerger, human resources manager at Marchant Schmidt, Inc. “Each speaker shared their leadership journey with passion and excitement. It was impossible not to get excited about the opportunity to bring back these experiences and try to live them in my workplace. I will definitely attend again in the future!”
Each speaker brought their leadership journey to life through shared personal stories and lessons learned:
John Maxwell shared two of the laws discussed in his book and online course, “21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership”. The Law of the Inner Circle says those closest to you help determine your level of success—they can be a great asset or a great liability. The Law of Legacy helps leaders understand that they will be valued by the legacy they leave in people rather than in the organization.
“Know What You’re FOR” author and entrepreneur Jeff Henderson asked participants two questions: What are you known for? What do you want to be known for? To succeed as an organization, Henderson said, you have to switch from self-promotion to showing care and being an advocate for your customer, for your team, for your community and for you.
IT Cosmetics founder Jamie Kern Lima used her rags-to-riches story to help those whose success may be stymied by self-doubt. To succeed, it takes belief in yourself, grit and listening to your gut, rather than listening to those who tell you no, she said.
Certified personal and executive coach Valorie Burton walked attendees through questions that would help them define their vision and values so that they could lead authentically. Burton said opportunities, challenges and relationships—today and in the future—will guide leaders toward their vision.
Author and host of the top-rated “Max Out Your Life” podcast Ed Mylett encouraged everyone to be an evangelist for their cause and their company. People don’t have to believe what you’re saying, he told the audience, but they have to believe that you believe what you’re saying.
After the simulcast, existing and senior leaders had the opportunity to share ideas and discuss how they could use what they learned within their businesses. Some of the discussions centered around cultivating employee and customer advocates, enhancing company cultures, defining what success looks like and opportunities for future growth.
MPTC’s Economic and Workforce Development division was able to bring the Atlanta-based live simulcast to Fond du Lac through generous sponsorships from Marchant Schmidt, Inc., Presenting Sponsor; J.F. Ahern Co., Book Sponsor; Kondex, Wabash National and Fortfi Bank, Lunch Sponsors; Apache Stainless Equipment and Envision Greater Fond du Lac, Value Sponsors.
If you missed the live event on October 8th, you can now watch every minute of the 2021 Live2Lead Leadership event virtually! This virtual rebroadcast option gives you 3-days of on-demand access starting the moment you activate your pass. To learn more about the event and how to register for the virtual rebroadcast, visit morainepark.edu/live2lead.
The Moraine Park Technical College Economic and Workforce Development Department welcomed Kelli Karpinski as a new Business Representative. In her role, Kelli partners with area manufacturers to identify individual and regional workforce development needs. Working collaboratively, her goal is to create performance-minded business solutions through short- and long-term strategies to close skills gaps – all to help area firms remain competitive and profitable.
Before joining MPTC, Kelli spent more than six years as a senior consultant at Oshkosh marketing firm Blue Door Consulting. She also has an economic development background through a previous role at the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce and served as an adjunct instructor at Fox Valley Technical College, teaching introductory business and marketing courses.
Kelli earned a Bachelor’s degree from UW Eau Claire and an MBA from UW Oshkosh.
Kelli enjoys giving back to her community and has spent the past eight years on the Oshkosh Women’s Fund Board, currently serving as immediate past president. She and her husband like to kayak, tackle home DIY projects, listen to live music, travel, ride their Harley-Davidson and hang out with their Australian labradoodle.
“Being a part of the EWD team brings together my passion for education and training with my background in building business relationships. I’m excited to see the results of our work—the advancement of the area workforce and the positive impact that will have on our businesses.”
Written by: Pamela James, MBA, MPH, MPM, MT(ASCP), NBC-HWC, PMP
What do you use to clean your house, your dishes, your body? Unfortunately, your common everyday products are putting the health of you and your loved ones in danger. Every time you spray something, you inhale some of it. Every time something gets on your skin (accidentally or on purpose), it can get into your bloodstream.
Maybe some of you are thinking, “Yep, that’s why I buy ___ which is natural. It says so right on the label.” But did you know that even many “natural” products are full of chemicals, phthalates, parabens, and hormone disruptors? And that doesn’t apply only to cleaning products but also to all those lotions and potions that we knowingly put on our skin every single day.
Here’s the great news. Making your home healthier does not have to be expensive or complicated. There are many natural and safe options to choose from including essential oils, vinegar, castile soap, and baking soda.
Essential oils? Wait, aren’t those just a nice smelling alternative to candles? Actually no, essential oils can be used in a number of ways and have been for thousands of years around the world. I won’t bore you with all the science, but here’s the basics.
Essential oils are naturally occurring compounds found in the various parts of trees, flowers, and other plants. Plants make essential oils for their own health – to repel insects, protect them from the environment, resist microbes, and more. When we use a 100% pure essential oil, those same properties work for us too!
Have you ever used a scented candle, cleaning product, or lotion? Ever had a cup of tea, put a lemon in your water, or added herbs and spices (fresh or dried) to your food? Then you’ve used essential oils!
As we’ve already discussed, we want to decrease (or eliminate completely) the use of dangerous household chemicals. And the best way to do that is to start with simple swaps. Make your own products and know exactly what’s in them! Don’t let the idea of essential oils or DIY (do it yourself) overwhelm you. Here are a couple easy DIY recipes to try.
DIY All-Purpose Spray: ¼ cup white vinegar 1 ¾ cup water 30 drops Essential Oil*
Add all ingredients to a 16 oz spray bottle. Shake thoroughly and spritz on surfaces and wipe clean! Perfect for use all throughout the house!
Fill a large, clean bottle with castile soap and essential oils. To use, shake and add 1-2 tbsp to dishwater or a small amount to a natural sponge
*Choose your own essential oils such as 30 drops of lemon, 15 drops tea tree + 15 drops lemon, 15 drops Lime + 10 drops lemon + 5 drops orange. Feel free to add in other essential oils such as peppermint or lavender.
Look at how easy it is to swap out expensive and dangerous cleaning chemicals! Simple recipes with simple ingredients for a healthier home in just minutes.
A couple final notes. Firstly, always use caution with essential oils as they are extremely concentrated and powerful. A couple drops goes a long way. Secondly, watch out for impure and synthetic essential oils as you lose all the great benefits when they are made in a lab instead of by nature. Even those essential oils labeled as 100% pure are usually diluted or adulterated. Do your research.
Interested in learning more about using essential oils in your life? There are a number of classes coming up that will help you get started. Visit https://www.morainepark.edu/academics/continuing-education/ find an essential oils class for you.
We all have goals of living independently and being self-sufficient but often obstacles and challenges get in our way. After successful participation in a combination of virtual and in person instruction due to Covid, two students were able to celebrate completion of a 2-year Learning for Independence (LFI) Program, moving them one step closer to meeting their goal of independence.
Learning for Independence is a cooperative transition program offered in partnership by Fond du Lac Area High Schools and Moraine Park Technical College. The students ranging in ages from 18- 21 years of age, have a documented disability and are current students at various Fond du Lac County High Schools. “It is inspiring watching the transformation from the first day our LFI students set foot on the MPTC campus to the completion ceremony two years later! Our students arrive as high school seniors and leave as confident adults with life skills and plans to continue with their present job or pursue new employment or enroll in classes to pursue a certification or degree at technical college. This amazing program would not be possible without the great partnerships of MPTC, Fond du Lac Economic and Workforce Development, the Fond du Lac Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, surrounding Fond du Lac County Schools and the School District of North Fond du Lac!” states Chris Schultz, LFI Program Director.
“When students start their LFI experience, they are anxious, excited and ready to embrace the program. During their two years, they meet students from different high schools and become friends quickly. They start to become a close group and help each other when needed. Their confidence levels and self-advocacy skills are completely turned around and almost mastered! The skills learned from each class will be ones they will be able to use when out living independently. At their completion ceremony each student speaks about what they learned, what they liked about the LFI program, and where they see themselves in five years. This is quite a transformation and all the instructors, people at MPTC, Chris Schultz and myself are so proud of all of them. We send them out with a job lined up, or already employed, and some have gone on to attend MPTC.”, states Jo Marchionda, LFI Coordinator and Instructor.
In person classes will be starting again in fall. For additional information on the LFI program or applications for enrollment, please contact Chris Schultz, School District of North Fond du Lac, at cschultz@nfdlschools.org or call 920-929-3750 ext 6143.
When was the last time you took an Excel course? If you are like most of us you have probably googled a command or two or watched a YouTube video on a specific function when needed. You get the work done, but the experience was uninspiring. Over the course of a few weeks, you’re lucky if two or three of the new commands or functions you learned make it into your daily routine. Sound familiar?
Here are some simple Microsoft Excel tricks you can use to be more productive at work.
Select All. This quick keyboard commands can cut your computer task time by seconds, which quickly adds up to minutes and hours. [Ctrl]+A can be used to select all of the data in your Excel spreadsheet at one time. It also works in Word and other Windows applications.
Display formulas. Not the original author of a spreadsheet than you will find this helpful. When you hit [Ctrl] + ~, all of the formulas in a spreadsheet will be visible, allowing you to edit or tweak them as needed.
Using Quick Analysis. Who doesn’t want to analysis data quickly? Right click inside the table you wish to work with. Select the Quick Analysis button to open the menu. Hover over one of the tabs: Formatting, Charts, Totals, Table or Sparklines to preview the effects. Click on the button to apply the feature.
Moraine Park offers a host of Microsoft Excel classes that can teach you basic and advanced skills, or can be used as refresher training. Consider what skills would make you more productive. Here are some options:
The Fall 2020 Welding and CNC Boot Camp completion definitely looked different from the ones MPTC’s Economic and Workforce Development has held before. But then, so did the entire boot camp.
Boot camp is always intense. The phrase, “We call it boot camp for a reason,” gets thrown around often as the normal stresses of learning to be a student again, balancing home and work life, and life hurdles get in the way. This semester the addition of quarantines and resulting virtual attendance and loss of hands on time added to the challenge.
But nine remained and we celebrated your accomplishment the only way we could. EWD wishes the best to our boot camp completers and acknowledges the extra hurdles you overcame, the extra patience you showed, and the extra flexibility it took to make it though.
We’re proud of you and your unique accomplishment.
We hope the unique ceremony showed just how much.
MPTC’s Economic and Workforce Development boot camps have been held continuously since fall of 2012 at little or no charge to students. Recruiting for spring has already begun. If you’re interested in being part of boot camps, or just want to know a little bit more about them, look us up at www.morainepark.edu/bootcamps.
Recent Comments