Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Additional Information
Timeline
Intern
Karen Isaacs

Karen Isaacs

Quality Director
Connersville,IN

Summary

Dynamic quality engineering leader with a proven track record at Cummins Engine Division, driving continuous improvement initiatives and enhancing product quality through Six Sigma methodologies. Skilled in root cause analysis and cross-functional team leadership, I foster collaboration and achieve significant cost savings while ensuring compliance with ISO 9001 standards.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Quality Engineering

Cummins Engine Division
01.2007 - 03.2011
  • Optimized manufacturing processes for increased efficiency and reduced waste.
  • Drove continuous improvement efforts, ultimately elevating the overall quality of products while minimizing production costs and maximizing customer satisfaction.
  • Trained employees on quality management systems, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organization.
  • Led cross-functional teams to identify and resolve key quality issues in a timely manner.
  • Leveraged data analytics tools to identify trends in product defects or process inefficiencies, enabling proactive resolutions before major problems occurred.
  • Developed and maintained comprehensive quality documentation, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
  • Validated new equipment installations, ensuring proper functionality before integration into production lines.
  • Reduced risk of non-conformance by conducting thorough internal audits of processes and procedures.
  • Achieved cost savings through continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing principles.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by addressing complaints promptly and effectively resolving any outstanding issues.
  • Coordinated with stakeholders from diverse functional areas; consistently aligning objectives and ensuring the success of major projects.
  • Improved product quality by implementing effective inspection processes and procedures.
  • Managed supplier relationships, driving improvements in component quality and delivery performance.
  • Championed best practices for testing methodologies across multiple departments; significantly improving adherence with strict industry requirements.
  • Streamlined workflow processes, resulting in improved productivity within the quality department.
  • Conducted root cause analysis on defects, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
  • Participated in employee performance reviews and offered suggestions to management.
  • Contributed to root cause analysis to determine core reason for failures and errors.
  • Performed quality inspections and drafted reports to detail non-conforming material issues.
  • Developed action plan for company certification using ISO 9000 standard knowledge.
  • Analyzed production data and prepared reports for senior management.
  • Managed personnel by implementing company policies, procedures, work rules, and disciplinary action.
  • Enforced health and safety protocols to promote safe working environment.
  • Collaborated with technical and administrative teams to develop and implement successful corrective plans.
  • Planned operations to meet established schedules, factoring in order demands and business forecasts.

Mechanical Engineer Supplier Quality

Navistar
01.2005 - 03.2008
  • Coordinated with other departments such as procurement, logistics, and quality control to streamline interdepartmental communication and collaboration efforts effectively.
  • Improved product quality with the development of robust testing procedures and implementation of corrective actions.
  • Performed thorough risk assessments before executing projects, minimizing potential hazards or delays during implementation phases.
  • Developed engineering solutions for complex technical problems, enhancing overall system performance and reliability.
  • Generated system concepts to satisfy product requirements.
  • Attended project planning meetings to coordinate mechanical system designs with structural and architecture teams, mitigate design conflicts, and coordinate delivery timelines.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for cost reduction, achieving significant savings without compromising on quality.
  • Increased production efficiency by designing and implementing process improvement strategies in mechanical operations.
  • Designed innovative mechanical components, leading to increased customer satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Optimized manufacturing processes through continuous improvement initiatives, resulting in enhanced productivity and operational excellence.
  • Conducted root cause analysis to troubleshoot equipment issues and implemented preventive maintenance programs, reducing equipment downtime significantly.
  • Established strong relationships with suppliers and vendors to ensure timely delivery of materials at competitive prices.
  • Provided technical expertise during project planning phases, contributing to the successful execution of large-scale engineering projects.
  • Mentored junior engineers in design principles and best practices, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing and continuous learning among team members.
  • Streamlined assembly lines for optimal performance, resulting in reduced downtime and increased output.
  • Fostered culture of continuous improvement, encouraging feedback and innovation within engineering department.
  • Customized engineering solutions to meet unique customer requirements, enhancing client satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Developed technical documentation to standardize engineering procedures, promoting consistency across projects.
  • Enhanced machine efficiency by redesigning mechanical components for optimized performance.
  • Engaged in professional development activities, staying abreast of technological advancements and best practices in mechanical engineering.
  • Collaborated with R&D team to introduce innovative product features, setting new industry standards.
  • Negotiated with suppliers to secure high-quality materials at cost-effective prices, improving project margins.
  • Conducted in-depth failure analysis to identify root causes, preventing recurrence of mechanical failures.
  • Streamlined workflow processes, resulting in significant reduction in project turnaround times.
  • Applied mechanical problem solving skills to develop creative solutions for quality products.
  • Identified suitable materials for production use that aligned with environmental concerns and budget constraints.
  • Examined existing documents and blueprints to best update and maintain project records.
  • Interpreted blueprints, technical drawings, schematics and computer-generated reports for new product development.
  • Designed budgets and cost estimates for projects with speed and accuracy while working closely with clients, drafters and employees to determine best courses of action.

Senior Quality Manager

Workhorse Custom Chassis
08.2003 - 09.2006
  • Utilized Lean Six Sigma to optimize workflows and uphold quality.
  • Developed and managed efficient quality management systems for streamlined operations and reduced defects.
  • Championed a culture of continuous learning within the organization, promoting ongoing professional development opportunities for staff members at all levels.
  • Implemented strict quality checks to ensure superior product outcomes.
  • Conducted root cause analysis for process failures, leading to the development of effective preventive measures.
  • Ensured clear communication of expectations around quality performance by cascading goals throughout the organization and regularly reviewing progress against established targets.
  • Ensured compliance with industry standards and regulations by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of best practices in quality management.
  • Drove innovation in quality management practices by staying current on industry trends, attending relevant conferences, and sharing insights with the wider team.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by addressing complaints promptly and implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
  • Optimized supplier performance through regular evaluations, feedback, and collaboration on continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Mentored junior team members to enhance their understanding of quality management principles and drive a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Achieved departmental objectives by setting clear performance metrics and regularly reviewing progress against targets.
  • Maintained strong relationships with external auditors, ensuring smooth audit processes and timely resolution of any identified issues or nonconformances.
  • Reduced waste by identifying inefficiencies in manufacturing processes and implementing targeted improvements.
  • Managed risk effectively by conducting regular assessments of potential threats to product quality or regulatory compliance and taking proactive steps to mitigate them.
  • Established a robust document control system to ensure that all quality-related documentation was up-to-date, easily accessible, and compliant with regulatory requirements.
  • Led cross-functional teams for effective collaboration on quality improvement projects, resulting in improved efficiency and cost savings.
  • Collaborated with R&D teams to integrate quality considerations into new product development processes, ensuring successful launches with minimal issues.
  • Developed and delivered comprehensive quality training programs for employees at all levels of the organization to reinforce best practices and maintain a strong culture of excellence.
  • Updated quality control standards, methods, and procedures to meet compliance requirements.
  • Increased customer satisfaction through adherence to quality standards and customer requirements.
  • Evaluated quality problems and performed assessments to identify and resolve issues.
  • Managed and archived quality documentation and participated in internal and external quality audits.
  • Wrote and implemented new rework procedures to standardize processes and streamline workflow.
  • Liaised with HR manager to organize and perform quality standard training for new and existing staff.
  • Inspected inbound and outbound products for compliance with established industry standards, company policies, and procedures.
  • Calibrated instruments and scales in production area and quality lab.
  • Coordinated and oversaw periodic audits to evaluate product quality and safety and address non-conformances.
  • Devised specifications for processes.
  • Recorded, analyzed, and distributed statistical information.
  • Scheduled and chaired quality review meetings to review effectiveness of performance mitigating risk, improving throughput and achieving customer satisfaction.
  • Applied coaching techniques and tools to support managers and team members in improving performance.
  • Reported production malfunctions to managers and production supervisors.
  • Assured consistent quality of production by implementing and enforcing automated practice systems.
  • Monitored staff organization and suggested improvements to daily functionality.

Supply Chain Specialist

Rolls Royce North America
05.2004 - 08.2006
  • Leveraged knowledge of best practices to track inventory and retain accountability for projects worth $Number.
  • Worked with suppliers to manage schedules, specifications and quality compliance.
  • Resolved complex issues regarding material handling, mail distribution and inventory control, to increase profits.
  • Championed sustainability initiatives within the company''s supply chain operations through waste reduction strategies.
  • Analyzed data trends to make informed decisions related to inventory management and demand planning processes.
  • Optimized inventory levels by implementing efficient demand forecasting and supply planning methods.
  • Enhanced supplier relationships, negotiating better pricing and terms for cost savings.
  • Established effective communication channels between departments for seamless supply chain operations.
  • Developed comprehensive performance metrics to monitor supply chain efficiency and identify areas for improvement.
  • Analyzed real-time customer histories to identify issues and anomalies before problems occurred.
  • Oversaw and executed duties to manage client correspondence, scheduling and data communications.
  • Spearheaded initiatives focused on process improvements within the supply chain function, driving efficiencies across the organization.
  • Improved supply chain customer satisfaction ratings through efficient problem resolution.
  • Maintained high levels of accuracy in managing purchase orders, invoices, and shipping documentation for audit purposes.
  • Enforced safety protocols for proper equipment operation.
  • Supervised quality control and reduced process lags to maximize revenue.
  • Provided ongoing support to global logistics teams, ensuring timely shipment of products across borders.
  • Reduced order lead times with streamlined procurement processes for increased customer satisfaction.
  • Maintained optimal inventory levels to meet operational requirements.
  • Negotiated prices and terms with shipping companies and supply vendors.
  • Improved quality assurance operations by inspecting materials and verifying delivery compliance.
  • Collaborated with internal teams to improve outputs to meet demand and supply requirements, ensuring inventory integrity targets for finished goods.
  • Established inventory targets, stock level, and risk mitigation targets and managed flexibility strategy to optimize inventory.
  • Formulated demand planning and generated supply chain management metrics.
  • Monitored and tracked supplier performance to enforce adherence to quality standards and established timelines.

Mechanical Engineering Project Leader

General Motors Co
04.2003 - 12.2004

Temporary assignment to close down the GM division in the manufacturing of horns for automobiles and the train division that were still manufacturing horns for train engines in Seymour, Indiana. Instrumental in the management and organization of time management of machine removal and complete closure and relocation of the division.

Manufacturing Supervisor

Ford Motor Co
08.1981 - 06.1988
  • Identified problems and implemented effective solutions.
  • Performed accident investigations.
  • Improved production efficiency by implementing Lean Manufacturing principles and streamlining processes.
  • Reported tool, machinery and equipment issues to maintenance personnel.
  • Ensured product quality through rigorous inspection processes and adherence to industry standards.
  • Reduced machine downtime with proactive maintenance schedules.
  • Optimized resource allocation to maximize output and efficiency.
  • Monitored production schedules to ensure on-time delivery of products, meeting customer expectations consistently.
  • Maintained open lines of communication between management and staff, fostering trust and transparency throughout the organization.
  • Recorded and reported attendance and hours worked for all area employees.
  • Enhanced production efficiency by streamlining assembly line processes.
  • Boosted team morale and productivity through effective leadership and motivational strategies.
  • Supervised a team of skilled workers, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluation for continuous improvement.
  • Led safety meetings and monitored compliance with gear requirements and best practices.
  • Conducted performance evaluations, identifying areas for individual improvement.
  • Managed shift schedules to ensure 24/7 production operations, meeting all delivery commitments.
  • Completed production plans by scheduling and assigning personnel to daily tasks.
  • Participated in departmental meetings to share insights from the manufacturing floor, contributing valuable input towards decisionmaking.
  • Improved product quality, conducting rigorous quality control checks.
  • Implemented safety protocols, significantly reducing workplace accidents.
  • Initiated cost-saving measures that reduced waste without compromising quality.
  • Empowered team members by delegating responsibilities, promoting ownership and accountability.
  • Led continuous improvement initiatives by soliciting feedback from employees and incorporating their suggestions into the manufacturing process where feasible.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Organizational Leadership And Supervision. Minored

Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN
05-2006

Associate of Applied Science - Political Science And Government

Indiana Universoty
Richmond, IN
05-1991

Skills

Documentation review

Inspection planning

Quality assurance management

Corrective and preventive actions

Advanced product quality planning

Six sigma methodologies

Control plan development

ISO 9001

Customer complaint handling

Quality engineering techniques

Statistical process control

Supplier quality management

Cross-functional team leadership

Failure mode effects analysis

Quality system auditing

Problem solving techniques

Customer service

Quality improvement plans

Quality processes

Decision-making

Project scheduling

Critical thinking

Team collaboration

Test plan development

Product design

Attention to detail

Documentation and reporting

Root cause identification

Relationship building

Root-cause analysis

Financial analysis

Accomplishments

Certified QS9001, was verified to QS19l694 now has changes. Audited in Europe and Mexico as well as 46 states with KPMG and Omnex AQSR. Audited for NSF as well. Set up internal auditing and trained auditors and worked as an independent Quality Systems consultant 15 years. I do well in setting up corrective and preventive action process and great at a document control and and highlly experienced in DFMEA, PFMEA, contol planning and design and development. 30 years experience in all with a successful track record.

Additional Information

Willing to become recertified to the new ISO 9000 standards and seek new and improved quality an supplier initiatives to revitalize and increase production all while reducing cost and by never compromising product integrity.

Timeline

Director of Quality Engineering

Cummins Engine Division
01.2007 - 03.2011

Mechanical Engineer Supplier Quality

Navistar
01.2005 - 03.2008

Supply Chain Specialist

Rolls Royce North America
05.2004 - 08.2006

Senior Quality Manager

Workhorse Custom Chassis
08.2003 - 09.2006

Mechanical Engineering Project Leader

General Motors Co
04.2003 - 12.2004

Manufacturing Supervisor

Ford Motor Co
08.1981 - 06.1988

Bachelor of Science - Organizational Leadership And Supervision. Minored

Purdue University

Associate of Applied Science - Political Science And Government

Indiana Universoty
Karen IsaacsQuality Director