From offices in Boise, Post Falls, Twin Falls, and Pocatello, TechHelp Specialists help Idaho manufacturers, food processors and entrepreneurs improve their competitiveness through continuous product and process innovation.

Lean Manufacturing Academy Overview

The TechHelp Lean Manufacturing Academy is your go-to public resource for achieving operational excellence in Idaho’s small to medium manufacturing sector. Our program offers consistent, Lean Manufacturing training, tailored for continuous improvement seekers. With sessions held annually in Fall, Spring, and Summer, our progressive curriculum builds on previous training, guiding you step-by-step to the next level. Accessible and affordable, our public trainings are conveniently located in Northern, Southwest, and Southeast Idaho, making it easy for manufacturers across the state to participate. Join us at TechHelp Lean Manufacturing Academy and drive your business towards unparalleled efficiency and success.

Program Belt Level Overview

Lean Six Sigma White Belt (LSSWB) – 1 Day Course

  • 11/06/24 Coeur d’Alene, ID
  • 01/29/25  Coeur d’Alene, ID
  • 06/04/25 Coeur d’Alene, ID
  • 10/01/25 Coeur d’Alene, ID
  • Unable to attend on these dates or area? Let us know you’re interested by filling out our interest form today!

The Lean Six Sigma White Belt serves as an introductory level to the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This belt focuses on providing a basic understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of Lean and Six Sigma. Participants learn about the core components, such as identifying waste, understanding process variation, and the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework. The training typically covers the history and benefits of Lean Six Sigma, basic problem-solving techniques, and the importance of a data-driven approach. White Belt holders are equipped to support projects and understand the language and concepts used in Lean Six Sigma initiatives.

Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt (LSSYB) – 2 Day Course –

  • 11/06/24 & 12/04/24 Coeur d’Alene, ID
  • 01/29/25 & 02/19/25  Coeur d’Alene, ID
  • 06/04/25 & 06/25/25 Coeur d’Alene, ID
  • 10/01/25 & 10/22/25 Coeur d’Alene, ID
  • Unable to attend on these dates or area? Let us know you’re interested by filling out our interest form today!

The Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt builds on the foundational knowledge provided at the White Belt level, offering more detailed insights into Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques. Yellow Belt training covers the key elements of the DMAIC cycle in more depth, including process mapping, root cause analysis, and basic statistical analysis. Participants learn how to identify improvement opportunities within their teams and contribute to problem-solving projects led by Green Belts and Black Belts. This belt emphasizes the importance of teamwork, data collection, and basic analytical skills, enabling Yellow Belt holders to play an active role in supporting Lean Six Sigma projects and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (LSSGB) – 4 Day Course – Share your interest with us by filling out our interest form today!

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is a more advanced level of training, providing comprehensive knowledge and skills to lead and manage Lean Six Sigma projects. Green Belt training covers all aspects of the DMAIC methodology in detail, including advanced statistical tools, process optimization techniques, and project management strategies. Participants learn how to conduct in-depth data analysis, develop and test hypotheses, and implement effective solutions to complex problems. Green Belt holders are equipped to lead cross-functional project teams, drive significant process improvements, and deliver measurable results. This belt focuses on developing leaders who can sustain and enhance the Lean Six Sigma culture within their organizations

Progressive Training Requirements

Each course is designed to build upon the previous one, ensuring a progressive learning experience. For example, if you or an employee completes the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) White Belt in the Fall, they can return in the Spring to attain their LSS Yellow Belt certification, only needing to participate and pay for the second day of training. This progression continues into the LSS Green Belt level, where Yellow Belt holders are required to participate and pay for the final two days to obtain their LSS Green Belt certification. To maintain a consistent baseline of knowledge, we require that certifications be pursued consecutively.

Course Requirements

In order to receive your LSS Belt Certification, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Attend all assigned course days (makeup days are possible at the discretion of the instructor for LSSYB and LSSGB)
  • Written Test for Each Belt Level
  • Project Report Out
    • LSSWB – Post Class Report Out
    • LSSYB – Post Class Report Out
    • LSSGB – In Class Presentations and Final Report post course

Class Size and Schedule

Ideal class size starts at (8) participants, which helps foster dialogue and ideation amongst the participants. Companies can send as little as 1 participant to any of these public classes, although if a company is sending (8) or more participants, it may be more cost effective to hold a private course onsite at the business.

  • Maximum class size is 20 participants, but also dependent upon instructor availability
  • Minimum class size will be determined by the instructor based off of the training that is being delivered.
  • LSSWB and LSSYB will be scheduled each Fall, Spring, and Summer, while LSSGB will be scheduled based on need and interest.

Discounts / Promotions / Grant Funding

Partner Organizations

  • Idaho Manufacturing Alliance (IMA): 10% discount
  • Northwest I-90 Manufacturing Alliance (NIMA): 10% discount.

Multi-Participant Discount

  • 2 or more participants: 10% discount
  • 3 or more participants: 15% discount

Grant-Funded Discount (if available)

For more information or additional details, please contact

Luke Fuess: (208) 954-3563 lukefuess@techhelp.org 

Steven Russ: (986) 269-0140 steveruss@techhelp.org 

Complete the following form to participate in the Lean Manufacturing Academy.

Upcoming Events

Principles Of Lean Manufacturing

Clarkston Campus, Walla Walla Community College 1470 Bridge Street Room 153, Clarkston

The workshop provides a practical overview, real-world success stories, and the hands-on tools needed to apply Lean principles to your organization. The focus is to learn how to deploy Lean in the manufacturing work environment to yield efficiency and improvement. These same tools can also be used across any industry to eliminate waste and improve efficiencies.

Site Tour | BioLogiQ | Idaho Falls

BioLogiQ

Curious about how potatoes are helping save the planet? So are we! Come along as we tour BioLogiQ’s Idaho Falls manufacturing facility. BioLogiQ is a leading planet-friendly bioplastics company that provides […]

Boise Entrepreneur Week

Jack’s Urban Meeting Place 1000 W Myrtle St, Boise, United States

Boise Entrepreneur Week (BEW) is the premier event for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Idaho. This dynamic week brings together startups, investors, and community leaders for pitch competitions, workshops, and networking opportunities, all designed to ignite business growth. Whether you’re launching a new venture or scaling an existing one, BEW offers invaluable resources and connections to help you succeed, making it a cornerstone of Boise’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Manufacturing Suppliers Expo

Mirabeau Park Hotel & Convention Center 1100 N Sullivan Rd, Spokane, WA

B2B Networking is a recipe for success! Join the Manufacturing Suppliers Expo on October 7th and 8th in Spokane. Exhibiting companies from across the US are already on board. If your business can benefit from showcasing or networking, this is the event for you! Limited exhibitor booths available. Manufacturing Companies and their direct supporters exclusively invited

FSPCA Preventive Controls for Human Food (PCQI)

Live Online

Our upcoming FSPCA Preventive Controls for Human Food Course is one way to gain that credential. This FSPCA Preventive Controls for Human Food course is the “standardized curriculum” recognized by the FDA. This course covers regulation Title 21 CFR 117 – Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Human Food. The course will go in-depth with requirements for Hazard Analysis and Risk-Based Preventive Controls based food safety training. Course participants will get familiar with all requirements of Preventive Controls based food safety plan and how to design the plan, and upon successful completion of the course become a Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI).

Site Tour | Boise Rigging & Supply

Boise Rigging Supply 6750 W Victory Rd, Boise, ID

In celebration of Manufacturing Month, Boise Rigging and Supply Boise Rigging Supply is opening their doors to IMA members for a tour of their operations. Boise Rigging Supply is a manufacturer of overhead lifting equipment, including chain, wire rope, and synthetic slings.

Membership Meeting |Treasure Valley |Hot Topics in Employment Law

Hawley Troxell 877 W Main St #200, Boise, Idaho

Don’t miss this opportunity to meet fellow IMA members and learn what you need to know right now in the world of Employment Law, complete with breakfast and coffee, hosted by the attorneys at Hawley Troxell.

Intermountain IFT Symposium 2024 – Prism of Possibilities

Sun Valley Resort Inn 1 Sun Valley Rd, Sun Valley, ID, United States

The Intermountain IFT Symposium 2024 explores the “Prism of Possibilities” in food science and technology. Highlights include Pre-Symposium Workshops, Networking Events, and Supplier’s Night, culminating in a Banquet on the final evening. The featured speaker is Bill Marler, a leading food safety attorney, who has vast experience in foodborne illness litigation and advocated for safety reforms. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with professionals across industry, academia, and government.

$100

The Leadership Edge: Sharpening Your Skills for Success

Boise State Student Union 1700 W University Dr, Boise

Sharpen your leadership skills at the summit with actionable strategies, connect with Boise’s leaders, and learn from top speakers. Invest in your future with Boise State University’s professional development opportunities, boosting your resume and showcasing your commitment to leadership excellence.

Lean Six Sigma White Belt Course – Coeur d’Alene

North Idaho College Hedlund Building Room 420 N College Dr, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

The Lean Six Sigma White Belt (LSSWB) is a 1-day introductory course that provides a basic understanding of Lean and Six Sigma principles. It equips participants with the knowledge to support projects, understand the terminology and concepts used in Lean Six Sigma initiatives, and serves as a foundation for pursuing further training towards a Yellow Belt, which allows for more advanced roles in Lean Six Sigma projects.

$300

Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Course – Coeur d’Alene

North Idaho College Hedlund Building Room 420 N College Dr, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

The Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt (LSSYB) is a 2-day course that builds on the foundational knowledge from the White Belt level, providing more detailed insights into Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques. The training delves deeper into key elements of the DMAIC cycle, including process mapping, root cause analysis, and basic statistical analysis. Yellow Belt holders are equipped to actively support Lean Six Sigma projects, foster a culture of continuous improvement within their organizations, and can pursue further training towards a Green Belt for more advanced roles in Lean Six Sigma projects.

$600