ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 17 – The NORDAM Group implemented Lean-Six Sigma earlier this year and is already, realizing many of the desired results executives were targeting. Under the leadership of Six Sigma director, Tim Christlieb, seven black belts have been trained and 17 projects are under way and contributing significant productivity and efficiency gains.

"Our Lean-Six Sigma launch initiatives have given us a clear view of our processes and how we can better manage our resources for results," said Christlieb. "Metrics such as lead time, inventory levels and scrap rate have been classic areas of focus for the business. We have trained some of our best people in the methodologies so they can lead teams to 'move the dials' in the right direction. We are delighted that the benefits are beginning to impact our business in a very positive way."

The scope of the Lean-Six Sigma initiative has spanned across all NORDAM divisions, from manufacturing projects and repair programs to human resources and benefits plan management. One program already delivering tangible savings is a raw materials inventory control initiative in the Nacelle/Thrust Reverser Systems Division. Led by Six Sigma principal specialist and black belt, Scott Mullins, a team was assembled to review key metrics such as dock-to-stock lead times, supplier performance, and days-of-supply methodology using Lean Six-Sigma techniques.

The study prompted collaboration between purchasers, receiving inspectors, and suppliers to refine processes and establish new areas of focus. Dock-to-stock lead times have been reduced by 50%, and just since late September, surplus inventory for key parts of the targeted programs have seen a 9% reduction.

"Lean-Six Sigma is a terrific complement to our strategic, operations, and people processes," said Christlieb. "We've generated the momentum to improve, and with management commitment, training, and organized infrastructure, our efforts will expand while continuing to translate into reliable and predictable performance for our customers."

The NORDAM Group, headquartered in Tulsa, Okla., is one of the largest independently owned aerospace companies in the world. It is also one of the world’s largest third-party providers of maintenance, repair and overhaul services to the military, commercial airline and air freight markets. In addition, NORDAM designs, certifies and manufactures integrated propulsion systems, nacelles and thrust reversers for business jets. NORDAM also manufactures interior shells, custom cabinetry, radomes, and aircraft transparencies such as cabin windows, wing tip lenses and simulator screens. The company employs approximately 2,400 people around the globe, with facilities in the U.S., United Kingdom, and Singapore. Additional information is available at www.nordam.com.