LECP is a nationally recognized Lean Certification Program for US manufacturers.  Dr. Larry Stauffer (left) of TechHelp and the University of Idaho worked with Lean experts nationwide to develop a program that lays a solid foundation in Lean and prepares workers to implement Lean projects in the workplace.

"The program generates immediate ROI to companies by requiring 24 hours of shop floor project work in addition to 32 classroom hours," said Stauffer. Material covered in class has immediate application to the workplace giving workers first-hand experience in implementing Lean and giving companies a quick payback on their investment in Lean training.

Above, TechHelp manufacturing specialist, Steve Hatten, helps LECP students run the "Buzz Electronics" factory during a Lean Fundamentals simulation.

LECP helps workers improve manufacturing skills, marketability, wages and responsibility and gives them a nationally recognized certificate.

LECP helps companies integrate Lean into their operations through in-house shop floor projects that generate immediate ROI.

Above, LECP students assess their performance after the first round of a Lean Fundamentals simulation.

Dr. Stauffer, center, helps LECP students run the "Buzz Saw" factory during a Lean Fundamentals simulation.

LECP Curriculum:

Lean Fundamentals: Introduces LECP students to Lean manufacturing principles and a systematic approach that can eliminate company waste. A mix of class room and live simulations enables participants to experience first-hand how to apply Lean concepts in a company. (8 Class Hours)

5S Visual Workplace: The Visual Workplace is made up of hundreds of simple visual devices. A visual workplace shares vital information quickly and accurately with the people who need it most – the employees. Visual devices are powerful solutions for working smarter, not harder, and can dramatically improve quality, safety, on-time delivery, lead-time and employee morale. (4 Class Hours)

Standardized Work: Standardized work is the process of having all team members perform the same task in the same manner every time. Documenting standardized work gives team members information about tools that are required, parts that are needed, safety issues and areas that require particular attention due to a quality concerns. (3 Class Hours)

High Performance Teams: The best chance for Lean success occurs when there is commitment from the top and a team approach to identifying waste and making plant improvements. This class teaches students how to create high performance teams that can successfully implement a Lean transformation.  (2 Class Hours)

Problem Solving: Lean involves a never ending process of problem identification and resolution. This class examines problem solving techniques that help achieve a successful Lean transformation. (3 Class Hours)

Total Productive Maintenance (TPM): TPM is a process to maximize the productivity of plant equipment for its entire life. TPM fosters a workforce environment where employees work to reduce equipment downtime to zero while improving quality and capacity. (2 Class Hours)

Quick Changeover: Quick Changeover is a systematic, low-cost, shop-proven method that has reduced setup and turnaround time in all types of manufacturing environments. Students will learn how to apply specific tools and techniques through real-world examples, using videos and exercises to reinforce the training. (2 Class Hours)

Cellular Flow: Cellular Flow is about turning manual and machine operations into the most efficient combination of resources. The goal is to maximize value-added content while minimizing waste. The resulting "work cells" balance manufacturing operations so there is a continuous flow of product. Parts movement is minimized, wait time between operations is reduced, inventory is reduced and productivity increases. (2 Class Hours)

Pull/Kanban: This on-site workshop teaches LECP students how to control the flow of resources through a plant using a Pull System that replaces only what has been consumed due to customer demand. A Pull System uses Kanban as a signaling device that gives instruction for production or conveyance of items as needed. (2 Class Hours)

Value Stream Mapping (VSM): During the on-site VSM activity, LECP students will learn how to use a pencil-and-paper tool to identify and eliminate waste. VSM creates a "current state map" that shows the production path from beginning to end of every process in the material and information flows of a product. A "future state map" is then created that shows how value should flow. The future state map is used by a Lean team to eliminate waste during plant improvement activities (Kaizens). (4 Class Hours).

Kaizen Events: LECP students participate in on-site "Kaizens" to eliminate areas of waste in a plant and to make progress toward the "future state" identified during VSM. Kaizen, Japanese for "change for the better" or "improvement", is an approach to continuous improvement that includes empowerment and respect for employees. (24 Practical Hours)