A Sample of What Our Customers Say About Us

The University of Illinois Lean Certification series is a good balance of the instructor’s practical experience, class presentations, handout materials, and hands-on in the classroom. The series gave me the tools to develop and implement a Lean program that we use specifically for our company. I was able to put much of the information into immediate use. The logical sequence of classes kept the learning in perspective. The series was a good all-around Lean training course.
Dan McDonald, Senior Corporate Engineer, Illinois Tool Works Technology Center

As a process specialist, prior to learning the six sigma methodologies, I was only able to make changes on the process based on feelings and what I saw at the time. I had no concrete data. I am now making decisions based off factual data. I now understand process variation and how to: Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control it. I have set up numerous data collection plans tailored to copy and paste into Minitab. I have been able to analyze data real time, and have provided operators with updates daily on processes. The six sigma training is a real powerful set of tools that have made a real difference in my outlook on our processes. Taking this class is a “No Brainer” on whether to make the investment or not. I have made up the money spent on my training in less than 3 months. The classroom material is very thorough and the instructor provided excellent examples during class. I highly recommend this training for all of the companies that would like to save money by just tightening up process variation. All the tools necessary are quickly at your fingertips.
Rocko Vasko, Six Sigma Process Specialist, MSC Walbridge Coatings

The materials presented in the training sessions were fundamental in getting the employees to open up their minds and realize what can truly be accomplished by applying the basic tools of Lean Enterprise.
Gustavo Cuevas, Plant Manager, Promens USA, Inc.

I just wanted to thank you again for an excellent educational experience! It was a great course and I really enjoyed your approach and techniques. You are very knowledgeable on the content, but what really made it excellent is that you have the practical experience of what really happens in industry. Thanks again!
Angelo Arcese, Manager Quality Assurance, ElectroMotive

I cannot say enough great things about the Six Sigma Certification Program at the University of Illinois BIS. It was the greatest educational experience of my life. Michael Pop is without question, the best educator I’ve ever come across. His subject knowledge, attention to detail and class room instruction is unequaled.
Vincent Williamson, MBA, Electro-Motive Diesel

I initially took the BIS Black Belt classes to teach and develop the tools I needed in order to improve efficiency on our production lines. The coursework and instructor not only offered those skills, they added in a great deal of information on a more efficient BUSINESS, allowing me to find and improve inefficiencies in all parts of the job. The program taught me that nearly anything can be deemed a 'process' with the right definitions in place, and the tools necessary to improve that process are within reach.
Robert Gustine, Six Sigma Process Engineer, Elk Grove Village, IL

The U of I BIS organization has developed strong training programs that have generated impressive results in our company. Their instructors have always supplied key insights and overviews on topics that assist me in my daily responsibilities. These instructors have an ability to teach in a well-organized, well thought out and easy-to-follow style. I have found all of our session with U of I BIS to be well worth the time and investment and would suggest them to my colleagues.
Manny Grijalva, Gold Eagle

I greatly appreciated my one on one coaching from Scott. My goal was to be assertive in a positive way. I learned to apply principles that helped me establish and communicate "boundaries" in a professional and courteous manner. These boundaries apply to work, home and even for myself. Needless to say, I met my objective. Not only did the the training give me confidence, but it helped me to really enjoy my job.
MaryEllen McCullough, Receptionist

I have over my 12 years with Gold Eagle participated in many workshops conducted by the U of I BIS team. Through my business career which spans over 43 years in both public and private enterprises, I strongly believe that the programs presented by the U of I BIS for Gold Eagle had the most significant and educational impact on me as a manager and team player. For example The Executive Team Building presentation conducted in June 2002 modified my behavior and attitude in dealing and working with top management, my peers and my direct reports. Throughout my adult business life I have always been a self starter and effected changes and results by doing it myself and/or not working with and through the system but rather going around it to achieve the desired outcome. As a result of this particular exercise, I learned that team play and participation through proper communication, trust building and conflict resolution not only realize the outcome more effectively, efficiently, quickly and positively but also at the same time builds a TEAM solidarity and an environment that fosters total team effort and cooperation with everyone feeling they were part and parcel of the accomplishment. The various facilitators are not text book consultants but rather individuals who themselves have experienced work environments and thus can share their own personal experiences and be able to relate and share their real world issues and opportunities. I highly endorse and support the many programs that the U of I BIS offers and encourage other companies to engage their expertise and services.
Richard S Schwab, Vice President International, Gold Eagle Co.

A pharmaceutical firm in the Chicagoland Area executed a Six Sigma Project to improve certain processes in its facility. Application of Six Sigma methodologies, including the formation and facilitating of a formal Project Team, DMAIC process implementation, and follow-through to Project completion, resulted in stated Project goals being successfully attained. The processes saw marked improvement, and tangible savings of $100,000. annually were documented. The gains have been subsequently maintained. Many thanks to the University of Illinois Business Innovation Services for providing Six Sigma Black Belt training! Instructor Michael Pop provided outstanding instruction for the 4 Weeks of intensive training.
Anonymous, Pharmaceutical Company

Since 1991, UI BIS has provided training to our company. From top management to supervisors to line leaders, we have all benefited from participating in workshops such as leadership, project management, OSHA compliance, Six Sigma, Time Management, Computer Skills, Lean Manufacturing, etc. Their instructors are the best. The costs are very competitive. The results always meet expectations. BIS has made a major difference at Gold Eagle.
Bob Hirsch, Chairman

The lean Certificate series at the University of Illinois is jam packed with all the essentials for companies looking to start the Lean journey. Speaking from experience as someone from Automotive with direct ties to Toyota and TPS – Chuck Liedtke has crafted this program with pin point precision leaving no stone un-turned. Your thinking will be challenged, stimulated and trained to see things for it’s true worth and affect on your company. The materials and experiences are extremely relevant with the times and span across your entire organization. Undoubtedly, this is the stuff you and your organization cannot be without!!!
Sean Hedden, Lean Process Engineer, Arens Controls, LLC.