Omnova employee earns first lean gold certification

The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), Dearborn, Mich., the Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME), Arlington Heights, Ill., and the Shingo Prize for Excellence in Manufacturing, Logan, Utah, have awarded the first lean gold certification to Jeff Lytle of Omnova Solutions Inc., Fairlawn, Ohio. Gold is the highest level of lean certification.

The certification program comprises three levels. The bronze level is directed toward tactical lean or lean in a local environment; silver's concentration is on integrative or value stream lean; and gold focuses on strategic or enterprise transformational lean. Lytle, a Six Sigma Master Black Belt, completed all three levels, with each requiring a comprehensive examination and a peer-reviewed portfolio. The gold level also requires an in-person panel interview.

Valid for three years, the certification requires Lytle to maintain his practice of lean through continuing education and updates to his portfolio.

Omnova produces flat laminates for metal, suitable for applications such as fixtures, components, and subassemblies.