Academic Credentials

• Ph.D., Chemical Engineering, University of Minnesota (1977)
• BS, Chemical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (1970)

Teaching Philosophy

I practice a four-step approach to teaching. 1) I present a theory, method or tool; 2) I give the learners a chance to practice the contents in a class situation; 3) I expect the learners to apply the learning in a real life situation (project); and 4) I review with the learner the results of application to their project.

Professional Profile

• Senior Process Expert, Essentia Health, 2009 to present – Led numerous lean design teams that integrated facility and operational design (acute pharmacies, retail pharmacies, regional clinics and a neonatal intensive care unit)
• Manager, AGCO Improvement Methods, AGCO Corporation, 2007 to 2008 - Planned, trained, implemented and deployed a Six Sigma and Lean group to improve processes within the Jackson Operations of AGCO
• Manager, Global Process Optimization, Tredegar Film Products, 2001 to 2007 - As the lead master black belt, developed and managed a group of black belt process engineers that supported worldwide operations. Planned, led, implemented and deployed the Six Sigma (SS) and Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) programs
• Associate Director, Industrial Technology Institute, 1986 to 2001
• Co-managed a consulting team that developed and delivered advanced methods and services in supply chain management, productivity improvement, lean manufacturing and organizational change. Led the development of Saturn’s design and manufacturing information integration strategy. Introduced Taguchi robust design techniques to numerous clients. Led the design and manufacture of a disposable bioreactor for a biotech startup company (Aastrom) reducing costs by 60% and parts by 80%
• Senior Process Engineer at General Electric, American Can Company and Polaroid, 1977 to 1986