Kelly Bleaking
Christiansburg,VA
Summary
Dynamic Quality Systems Leader with extensive experience at Corning Inc., excelling in quality management and data analysis. Proven track record in implementing IATF 16949 standards and driving process improvements. Adept at fostering collaboration across teams to enhance operational efficiency and resolve complex quality issues, ensuring customer satisfaction and compliance.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Quality Systems and Lab Leader
Corning Inc.
Blacksburg, VA
09.2025 - Current
- Facilitated preparation of plant operations and led internal and external IATF 16949 quality audits.
- Manages the plant Internal Audit System, Documentation System, Corrective and Preventative Action, and Customer Returns
- Oversaw and directed operations within physical property lab.
- Directed quality engineering initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
Customer and Quality Systems Leader
Corning Inc.
Blacksburg, VA
04.2023 - 09.2025
- Achieved improved customer satisfaction by effectively managing plant customer complaint process and fostering collaboration among plant engineers, commercial application engineers, and sales teams.
- Spearheaded cost reduction initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.
- Directed daily operations of M&P and A&T teams to enhance productivity and efficiency.
- Oversaw plant management review processes to enhance operational efficiency. Monitored and reported on critical quality metrics to drive strategic decision-making.
Physical Properties Lab Leader / Quality Engineer
Corning Inc.
Blacksburg, VA
05.2021 - 04.2023
- Oversaw analytical laboratory operations with 27 operators and 1 A&T.
- Utilized process data to determine ware disposition efficiently.
Customer Quality Engineer
Corning Inc.
09.2016 - 05.2021
- Established and improved Quality Architecture systems (e.g. ISO, IATF, VDA).
- Interfaced with Commercial groups, New Product Development teams and Manufacturing to understand customer needs and concerns.
- Managed Production Part Approval Process throughout the supply chain.
- Responded quickly and effectively to customer complaints and issues.
- CET Division, Diesel and Blacksburg Facilities
Quality Engineer
Corning Inc.
Corning, New York
07.2014 - 09.2016
- Managed quality systems and personnel to ensure compliance with customer requirements.
- Collaborated with innovation teams to assess new product needs and develop plant specifications.
- Oversaw analytical laboratory operations to support quality assurance processes.
Finishing Team Leader
Corning Inc.
Corning, New York
07.2011 - 07.2014
- Directed operations team to meet safety, health, quality, and production objectives.
- Supervised up to 86 Union employees in executing assignments per established guidelines and procedures.
Intern
Corning Inc.
Corning, New York
06.2010 - 08.2010
- Spearheaded Process Control and Discipline projects in two plants, minimizing downtime risks and enhancing yields.
- Delivered process support for HPFS products related to microlithography applications.
- Executed data analysis projects to address and reduce process variation issues.
Education
Bachelor of Science with honors - Environmental Science, Double Minor in Physics and Music
University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC01-2011
Study Abroad Program -
University of Essex
12-2009
Skills
- Quality management and assurance
- Data analysis and interpretation
- IATF 16949 and VDA auditing
- DMAIC and PQA Green Belt
Accomplishments
- Outstanding Belt Recipient (DMAIC)
- VDA/IATF Certified Auditor
Affiliations
- Society of Women Engineers, Member
- Glassblowing
Timeline
Quality Systems and Lab Leader
Corning Inc.
09.2025 - Current
Customer and Quality Systems Leader
Corning Inc.
04.2023 - 09.2025
Physical Properties Lab Leader / Quality Engineer
Corning Inc.
05.2021 - 04.2023
Customer Quality Engineer
Corning Inc.
09.2016 - 05.2021
Quality Engineer
Corning Inc.
07.2014 - 09.2016
Finishing Team Leader
Corning Inc.
07.2011 - 07.2014
Intern
Corning Inc.
06.2010 - 08.2010
Bachelor of Science with honors - Environmental Science, Double Minor in Physics and Music
University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill
Study Abroad Program -
University of Essex