September Professional Development Meeting

"Tried and true" manufacturing methods and policies that once were excellent solutions in the past have become "poison" to companies today. The rules have changed in the competitive world markets we face today. More than ever before companies are being called upon for higher productivity, lower inventories and shorter cycle times. These realities have caused many manufacturers to shift their thinking from "time honored" manufacturing paradigms to a new kind of thinking that has resulted in spectacular results.

The Theory of Constraints (TOC) or "Constraint Management" is based on the principles presented in "The Goal" and "It's Not Luck" written by Eli Goldratt. TOC is a process of analysis and control of the operating dynamics of an organization. It directs attention to the most critical business issues through constraint management using simple criteria that will impact business decisions and increase product flow.

This presentation will present a simple understanding of the principles of Theory of Constraints, the Improvement Process Steps, as well illustrate how the proper use of Drum-Buffer-Rope can lower inventory, increase production and protect the most vital process.

Tom Schulte spent most of his career working at a Fortune 100 manufacturing facility. His experience over the years includes serving as Manufacturing Supervisor, Senior Training Consultant, Change Management Facilitator and Development Manager for Business Excellence.

Tom has delivered hundreds of motivating, interesting, content-rich presentations to associations, corporations, conferences and civic organizations throughout the U.S., Canada, South Africa and Australia. He has been an invited speaker at most of the APICS International Conferences the past 18 years and was the highest rated speaker at the Conference many times. Tom also was awarded the best speaker award at the 2003 SAPICS conference in South Africa. His ability to weave his years of corporate experience, life experiences and sense of humor into common sense presentations, combined with his enthusiasm and energy make his presentations and workshops dynamic, meaningful, motivating and fun to attend.

Tom currently works as a private consultant utilizing his knowledge and skills to help businesses "reawaken" the involvement, leadership, teamwork and spirits of their managers and associates. His belief in the power of each person to contribute combined with his respect for workers at every level make him credible and effective in bringing change and positive results to the workplace.