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RL HUDSON LAUNCHES SIX SIGMA INITIATIVE
June 8 marked the completion date for RL Hudson’s first Six Sigma training, which began in late March (see “From the Top”). While some staff members are already certified in Six Sigma methods, this training represents the beginning of formal implementation throughout the company.
Frank Horn, director of engineering, is a huge proponent. “It’s a great fit for our company. Many of our customers already employ Six Sigma methods, and our adoption will only strengthen our communication and relationships with those customers,” he said. Frank also said that as RL Hudson continues to grow, Six Sigma provides a method through which that growth can be managed to help ensure that any change ultimately benefits the customer.
“It’s inevitable that processes and procedures will evolve and develop. Yet, without a defined method for managing change, any improvement achieved can easily fall away or shift from its original objective,” he said. “Because Six Sigma methods employ specific measurement techniques, and because they flow throughout the organization, the possibility of compromising a process or procedure becomes less likely.”
Adoption of Six Sigma methods can also help ensure consistent, efficient transfer of knowledge across departments, and speed orientation of new employees. Best of all, with Six Sigma as the company’s common language, everyone stays focused on the same ultimate goal: complete customer satisfaction.
Initial training has been led by Master Black Belt Mark Vardero of Process-in-Focus and The University of Tulsa College of Business. The training is focused on Six Sigma’s DMAIC methodology — Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control. Vardero, who is also an ASQ Certified Quality Manager as well as a Lean Manufacturing and Strategic Planning facilitator, has worked with several Fortune 500 companies.
RL HUDSON AND GRAND RIVER END ACQUISITION TALKS
RL Hudson and Grand River Rubber & Plastics have announced that acquisition talks have ended, but that they will continue to work closely together on projects in the future.
“Grand River is a wonderful company and I have nothing but respect for their management and staff,” said Rick Hudson, RL Hudson’s CEO.
The two companies began negotiations in November 2006, knowing they shared common values and vision, and that each brought unique strengths to the relationship.
“We’ve enjoyed a 20-year business and personal relationship, and that will continue,” said Grand River president Ric Selip.“We have simply concluded that, at least for now, we will both be stronger companies if we continue to operate independently.”
NEW LITERATURE NOW AVAILABLE
If it’s been a while since you’ve explored RL Hudson’s capabilities, you’ll want to take a look at our recently updated literature. In clean, concise form, our new capabilities brochure and product sheets highlight why some of the world’s most sophisticated firms have chosen RL Hudson as their primary rubber and plastic supplier.
For your copy, please call us toll free at 1-800-722-6766 or send an email with your name and address to info@rlhudson.com.
HUDSON WELCOMES CHEMIST BOB DENTON
IN THE LAB: Bob Denton, RL Hudson’s new director of material
development, inspects our
chloramine testing equipment.
RL Hudson welcomes industry veteran Bob Denton, as director of material development. With decades of experience in all aspects of chemical and process engineering in the rubber and plastics industry, Bob’s expertise is significant.
“The depth and breadth of his knowledge clearly reflect the level of expertise our customers have come to expect,” said RL Hudson president Rick Hudson. “Bob’s a great addition to our team.”
Bob began his career in the tire industry. From there, he moved into the technical arena as a quality control technician, and then to process engineering with an emphasis on defect control. His transition from tires to sealing products allowed him to explore the full spectrum of polymers. Most recently, Bob led the materials technology division of a company developing solutions for classified military applications.
As director of material development, Bob will work closely with all areas of the company to help ensure that our customers choose the best rubber or plastic for their applications, and that compounds are properly formulated — critical to product reliability.
When asked what attracted him to RL Hudson, Bob’s answer is two-fold: “First, is the company’s reputation in the industry. Hudson is known for innovative solutions and excellent technology,” he said. “Then, there is the company dynamic —the way everyone works together as a team to develop the best solution for the customer. They’re also constantly looking forward to understand future demands and plan for them. It’s energizing.”
