With the understanding that effective problem solving is a learned behaviour, this presentation will focus on how companies can empower their teams to drive business and solve critical issues through better team meeting structure and interaction. It will address the current limitations that exist in manufacturing collaboration and examine the ways and tools in which teams come together to collaborate, and the limitations that exist in regards to engagement, the sharing of ideas, information, and the ability to problem solve. It will explore platform tools that encourage and facilitate meaningful team collaboration. My presentation will examine the Lean Team Player role and how it can alleviate pain in a company’s ability to effectively collaborate in a manufacturing environment. Through exploring the role I will show you how to use lean principles to guide team interaction and performance.

​​​​​​​

Speakers

Kirsten Watters

Digital Manufacturing Technical Manager, CAD MicroSolutions Inc

In my mid-twenties I decided to change careers after taking a cabinet making course at a local college. This sparked my passion for manufacturing and fabrication and led me to a career path I've pursued over the last decade. I have always been interested in the intersection between technology and manufacturing, which led me to become a CAM programmer. From working in custom store fixtures, architectural fabrication, and everything in between, I wanted to teach others about what I am passionate for, which led me to my role as an Applications Engineer. I have taken on my biggest responsibility yet which is to instruct and help others in their digital manufacturing endeavors. My love of manufacturing and machines has kept me firm in this fast-paced industry, and I get inspired simply by being a part of it all. My experience on the shop floor has taught me that effective collaboration and the sharing of information across teams is critical to obtaining core business objectives. I believe that making information accessible across teams is paramount to project success.