Embracing Continuous Improvement: Michael Scott’s Journey Through the Lean Expert Program
In today’s evolving business landscape, the drive for continuous improvement is essential. At GROWMARK, this commitment is personified by Michael Scott, the Product Accounting Manager responsible for overseeing the financial reporting of several business divisions, including Crop Protection, Seed, Engineering & Construction, and GROWMARK Tank & Truck Centers. Michael's journey through the Lean Expert Program, offered by the Continuous Improvement Team at GROWMARK, highlights his dedication to enhancing operational efficiency and driving positive change for the company.
“Beginning in March of 2023, I participated in the newly established Lean Expert Program offered by the Continuous Improvement Team,” Scott explained. “This was a 12-month program designed to build off the Lean Six Sigma courses that I previously completed and to take those methodologies and apply them to our day-to-day operations. I met with a Black Belt consultant each week to identify potential process improvements and then implemented those changes to streamline my team’s processes during the final six months of the program.”
Throughout the program, Michael collaborated with a Black Belt consultant, meeting weekly to identify potential process improvements. The latter half of the program was dedicated to implementing these changes, streamlining his team’s processes, and achieving significant operational efficiencies.
“I’ve always had a passion for analyzing processes and looking at ways to improve them. I had been introduced to these lean methodologies earlier in my career at GROWMARK and was able to see first-hand how introducing RPA and other technology could impact our processes for the better. When this program was announced, I knew that this was something that I wanted to pursue.”
For Michael, the collaborative environment of the Lean Expert Program was one of its greatest benefits. Being part of an initial cohort of six participants, he valued the opportunity to work alongside his peers, drawing inspiration from the changes they were implementing within their teams. “The final requirement of the program was to deliver a capstone presentation to upper management highlighting all the processes that my team was able to improve. It was extremely rewarding to be able to look back and see all that our team was able to accomplish during the duration of the program.”
Reflecting on his experience, Michael stated, “My experience with this program was extremely positive and it challenged me to think differently about my team’s processes.” He is excited to utilize the skills he gained through participation in this program as he continues his career with GROWMARK.