WILLIAM GERKEN
Surprise,AZ
Summary
Lean manufacturing and production leadership built around capacity planning, cross-functional coordination, and team development. Directed high-volume operations across multiple shifts and facilities, launched training and IDP programs, and used visual management and Kaizen work to improve cycle time, quality control, and production reliability.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
ISC Senior Production Supervisor
Honeywell Aerospace
01.2022 - 01.2026
- Supported 45 FAA-qualified technicians across 3 shifts and 5 buildings for military, space, marine, and commercial aircraft hardware.
- Helped increase staffing 60% and secured capital for six new test stands to expand production capacity for military and commercial work.
- Reduced low-flow valve backlog 88% (894 to 103 units).
- Developed 8 employees through IDPs and strengthened leadership pipeline.
- Led Kaizen efforts that prepared operations for higher throughput in 2024.
ISC Production Supervisor
Honeywell Aerospace
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Supervised up to 200 operators, ensuring uninterrupted nightly production.
- Reduced stops and delays through effective coordination with Engineering and Maintenance teams.
- Facilitated Kaizen/Kai Ka Ku projects that increased velocity, quality, and lean performance metrics.
- Enhanced safety culture through comprehensive incident reporting and proactive defect prevention initiatives.
Production Supervisor
Solar Turbines, Caterpillar Inc.
01.2011 - 01.2020
- Developed and managed training program for 209 employees, enhancing skill sets and operational effectiveness.
- Implemented visual management systems, enhancing cycle time and quality tracking across production.
- Coached multiple employees through IDPs, significantly reducing assembly/test discrepancies.
- Directed 62 mechanics/test technicians in customized turbine package manufacturing.
Assembly Team Leader
Solar Turbines, Caterpillar Inc.
01.2008 - 01.2011
- Led assembly teams on 1st and 2nd shifts to achieve delivery and quality targets.
- Oversaw assembly processes to ensure efficient production on Solar Turbines floor.
- Coordinated daily workflow to meet Caterpillar manufacturing schedules.
- Reviewed blueprints, coordinated inspections, and facilitated customer buy-offs.
- Trained assemblers on safety rules and standard work.
Structure Package Mechanic
Solar Turbines, Caterpillar Inc.
01.2001 - 01.2008
- Assembled and aligned turbine engine packages, ensuring compliance with engineering and certification standards.
- Serviced Solar Turbines equipment using Caterpillar maintenance procedures.
- Inspected engines, pumps, and drive systems for wear and damage.
- Diagnosed mechanical faults using schematics and test tools.
- Coordinated Hazmat emergency responses for the 2nd Shift Assembly team, enhancing safety and preparedness.
Education
Associate Degree - Automotive Technology (ASE Certified)
Monroe Community College
Rochester, NYSkills
- Production Leadership
- Throughput Optimization
- Lean Manufacturing
- Continuous Improvement
- Production scheduling
- Capacity planning
- Quality assurance
- Safety & Compliance
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Workforce Development
Awards & Recognition
- 2023: Developed and Led Honeywell's largest R&O valve backlog burndown initiative, recognized and rewarded by upper leadership.
- 2020: AQI President's Award, Inclusion & Diversity (HERO Program).
- 2018: HERO Mentor Recognition.
- 2013: AQI President's Award, Built-In Quality.
- 2012: Key Contributor Award for cycle time reduction from 12 to 7 days.
- Eagle Scout.
Affiliations
- Muscle Car Shows
- Shooting
- Coin Collecting
- Hiking
Timeline
ISC Senior Production Supervisor
Honeywell Aerospace
01.2022 - 01.2026
ISC Production Supervisor
Honeywell Aerospace
01.2020 - 01.2022
Production Supervisor
Solar Turbines, Caterpillar Inc.
01.2011 - 01.2020
Assembly Team Leader
Solar Turbines, Caterpillar Inc.
01.2008 - 01.2011
Structure Package Mechanic
Solar Turbines, Caterpillar Inc.
01.2001 - 01.2008
Associate Degree - Automotive Technology (ASE Certified)
Monroe Community College