Eric Appleman
Kutztown,PA
Summary
Dynamic Process Improvement Professional with extensive expertise in Lean Six Sigma and cross-functional leadership. Proven track record of implementing effective process mapping and continuous improvement strategies, including a landmark safety initiative and mentoring teams to enhance operational performance and resource utilization.
Overview
1
1
Certification
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Manager - Process Improvement
PPL
Allentown, PA
12.2025 - Current
- Lead process improvement team in mapping processes and facilitating targeted improvement initiatives
- Facilitate Kaizen events to identify root causes and implement actionable solutions, focusing on waste elimination
- Implemented A3 Structured Problem-Solving Program to enhance resource utilization and inculcate a continuous improvement mindset across the organization
- Enhanced process improvement team capabilities by deploying Lucidchart upgrade and rolling out A3 problem solving training
- Coordinated largest safety initiative in company history to create a Unified Utility Rulebook and Advanced Critical Work Qualifications Program
Continuous Improvement Engineer
Sharp Packaging Solutions
Allentown, PA
08.2020 - 12.2025
- Championed initiatives that reduced waste, enhanced productivity, and improved quality.
- Directed CI initiatives for multiple Centers of Excellence to achieve strategic goals.
- Facilitated Kaizen events using DMAIC and A3 methodologies.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify process improvements and establish operational standards.
- Delivered measurable results by mentoring staff in Lean and Six Sigma principles, improving team competencies.
- Spearheaded data-driven projects to identify and address operational anomalies.
- Optimized for operational efficiency and created robust training resources.
- Successfully managed a 12-person customer-facing team to enhance service & accuracy of over 6,000 pharmaceutical packaging orders annually, generating over $88M in EBITDA.
Regional Continuous Improvement Engineer
Silgan Containers
Allentown, PA
03.2018 - 03.2020
- Developed and implemented Lean Six Sigma methodology to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
- Developed and implemented continuous improvement initiatives that enhanced manufacturing operations.
- Analyzed production processes to identify improvement areas, leading to increased efficiency.
- Evaluated performance metrics to drive decision-making and process enhancements.
- Facilitated cross-functional team meetings to collaboratively address operational challenges.
- Collaborated with engineering teams on product design changes for manufacturability.
Manufacturing Production Supervisor
PCA Packaging Corporation of America
Reading, PA
04.2011 - 03.2018
- Implemented process improvements that increased production efficiency and quality consistency.
- Supervised daily production activities in high-volume packaging environment.
- Coordinated interdepartmental workflows to streamline operations and reduce downtime.
- Trained and mentored team members on safety and operational best practices.
- Monitored equipment performance and performed routine maintenance to minimize disruptions.
Construction/Land Surveyor
Schlouch Incorporated
Blandon, PA
04.2007 - 11.2010
- Conducted site surveys for 10 developments simultaneously, ensuring regulatory compliance and accurate project specifications.
- Interpreted AutoCAD Civil 3D drawings for field use and facilitated accurate construction documentation.
- Maintained GPS equipment, enhancing site operations and contributing to timely project completion.
- Assisted in developing geological data collection and analysis, supporting informed site planning and decision-making.
Education
MBA - Business Administration
Kutztown University
Kutztown, PA05-2025
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certificate -
Villanova University
Villanova, PA10-2017
Bachelor's Degree - Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude
Albright College
Reading, PA01-2011
Skills
- Lean Six Sigma methodology
- A3 problem solving
- Continuous improvement strategies
- Data analysis
- Kaizen facilitation
- Process and value stream mapping
- Cross-functional team leadership
Certification
ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt, ASQ CSSBB Certification #27412, 12/2029
Timeline
Manager - Process Improvement
PPL
12.2025 - Current
Continuous Improvement Engineer
Sharp Packaging Solutions
08.2020 - 12.2025
Regional Continuous Improvement Engineer
Silgan Containers
03.2018 - 03.2020
Manufacturing Production Supervisor
PCA Packaging Corporation of America
04.2011 - 03.2018
Construction/Land Surveyor
Schlouch Incorporated
04.2007 - 11.2010
MBA - Business Administration
Kutztown University
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certificate -
Villanova University
Bachelor's Degree - Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude
Albright College