Manufacturing 2.0
Rock River Valley manufacturing experts discuss the many facets of manufacturing: technology, education, training, events, people and any other aspects of this important segment of our economy. They’ll use this blog to get the word out and solicit feedback on local and global manufacturing. They hope to better engage our employers, employees and our future work force and increase their understanding of manufacturing.

Archive for May 21st, 2008

Genchi Genbutsu

2 comments May 21st, 2008

Genchi Genbutsu is a Toyota Production System term meaning “go and see for yourself.” A few years ago Rockford Public School officials did just that in our manufacturing community: they went and saw the incredible things that go on in our local businesses. Many still talk about that day as “eye-opening.”

Please remember that the business community can “go and see” what goes on in our schools by visiting classrooms and offering their expertise. I submit that this must go beyond the obligatory classroom speaker visit.

At Auburn High School a few years ago Woodward engineers assisted with a project in a technical education classroom. Student engagement was high and Woodward completed the loop by having students out for a plant tour at the end of the project. Students were able to “go and see” how their classroom linked to the world of work.

Linking our school classrooms to what goes on in our local businesses is vital to ensure lessons stay relevant. You are all invited to come and see.