Events

May 4, 2021

Sunland Logistics Solutions in Simpsonville hosted a hands-on Lean simulation that immersed participants in core concepts such as continuous flow, standard work, takt time, and cycle time. CEO Arch Thomason shared how lean became central to Sunland’s strategy after a major business setback, emphasizing a people- and process-centered management system. The company’s approach includes belt training for all employees and strong visual daily management to make problems visible and drive learning. The visit concluded with a live simulation that demonstrated how lean thinking improves quality, delivery, and cost across the operation.

March 16, 2021

A sustainability-focused session featured four presenters sharing practical strategies manufacturers can apply immediately. Komatsu detailed a team-based PDCA approach that reduced electricity usage by 44% in two years. Clemson University’s Industrial Assessment Center highlighted no-cost energy assessments that have delivered millions in savings while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions. Southpoint Solutions explained how total lifecycle cost—not just simple payback—should guide LED lighting decisions, while the South Carolina Department of Commerce showcased tools and services to help manufacturers reduce waste, improve recycling, and even create new revenue streams.

March 16, 2021

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions shared how a well-designed employee suggestion system can unlock frontline knowledge while driving measurable results. SRNS operates the 310-square-mile Savannah River Site and runs what is believed to be the longest continuously operating suggestion program in the U.S., dating back to 1952. The program has generated more than $250 million in savings and continues to deliver roughly $1 million annually, while boosting employee engagement and morale. Blake focused not just on results, but on the practical fundamentals needed to launch, sustain, and scale a successful suggestion system at organizations of any size.

March 9, 2021

AstenJohnson shared how they use Hoshin Kanri to align strategic priorities with daily execution. The session highlighted practical approaches to policy deployment, clear goal alignment, and disciplined follow-up to drive accountability and results across the organization.

February 16, 2021

This webinar on Virtual Product and Process Development (VPPD) explored how companies can use digital tools to streamline product and process development. VPPD allows design, manufacturing, and serviceability considerations to be evaluated concurrently, reducing late-stage changes, lowering costs, and improving efficiency. The team highlighted software tools like Siemens Teamcenter, Dassault 3D Experience, and FlexSim, which enable virtual prototyping, ergonomic analysis, and process simulation. Case studies demonstrated significant time and cost savings, improved assembly processes, and optimized plant layouts. Overall, VPPD helps companies bring products to market faster while ensuring quality and operational readiness.

February 9, 2021

Jim Benson, co-author of Personal Kanban, led an interactive session on applying visual management to knowledge work. Using Turner Construction’s $922M Coney Island hospital rebuild as a case study, Jim demonstrated how visual tools support communication, collaboration, and flow in complex projects. Participants then experienced a live “Lean Coffee” exercise, showing how personal Kanban can democratize meetings and improve decision-making. The session reinforced a core takeaway: effective collaboration consistently drives higher quality, better delivery, and stronger outcomes.

January 26, 2021

Shaw Industries’ Aiken plant shared insights from its corporate co-op and Operations Management Training (OMT) programs, highlighting practical steps for launching a successful co-op model. College recruiter Bradley Townsend outlined the program structure, which supports 30–50 students per semester, with 47% returning for additional terms and 75% receiving job offers upon graduation. Claudia Paulson, a former co-op and now Quality Engineering Manager, emphasized the value of assigning real-world projects that drive measurable improvements while engaging students. Shaw also discussed virtual recruiting tools and concluded with clear “how-to-start” guidance for OpExChange members. Event recordings and resources are available on the Portal.

January 19, 2021

Bill Bliss of Bliss & Associates led an interactive workshop on candidate selection and interviewing, focused on reducing the high cost of bad hires. With less than 30 participants, the session covered interview preparation, defining job competencies, legal considerations, and using structured decision matrices. Role-playing interviews reinforced key concepts, while data highlighted that nearly half of new hires fail within 18 months, often at a cost exceeding 150% of base salary. The full recording, presentation, and reference materials are available on the OpExChange Portal.

January 11, 2021

In early 2021, Carolina CoverTech shared how strong leadership and a values-driven culture enabled them to not only withstand the pandemic, but to grow through it. President Rian True and Vice President of Operations Lisa Stuart discussed navigating multiple simultaneous crises by leaning into trust, teamwork, and transparency. Their candid conversation highlighted the power of complementary leadership styles, consistent communication, and visible care for employees. The session reinforced that in times of crisis, it is culture—not circumstance—that determines whether an organization merely survives or truly adapts and overcomes.

December 16, 2020

The OpExChange wrapped up 2020 with a virtual Year-in-Review highlighting strong engagement despite pandemic disruptions. A total of 26 events were held, with virtual sessions driving a 112% increase in average attendance during the second half of the year. Membership also grew, with 22 new companies joining—the highest increase since 2011. Looking ahead to 2021, OpExChange shared a robust Q1 schedule, new member tools through the Panorama portal, and recognized companies and individuals for outstanding participation and collaboration.