UB students available to apply Lean Six Sigma problem-solving tools at WNY companies

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Is your organization ignoring an issue that’s hindering performance because it lacks time or expertise to solve it?

Are you facing inconsistencies in production?

Or could your operations be more efficient, with the potential to positively impact the bottom line?

The University at Buffalo’s Six Sigma Black Belt Student Certification program can help pinpoint causes of and solutions for these issues and more.

Western New York companies of all types and sizes – from manufacturers and lending institutions to health care providers and nonprofit organizations – are invited to host a program participant for the 2015-16 academic year.

The two-semester program, administered by UB TCIE and offered in conjunction with UB’s Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, focuses on operational excellence by employing the Lean Six Sigma problem-solving approach to reduce process variation. The program is in its 11th year and is one of a handful of Six Sigma programs offered by U.S. institutions of higher education.

“Companies reap the benefits of someone who is dedicated solely to a project, and when management is committed to providing the student with necessary resources,” said Timothy Leyh, UB TCIE executive director. “They also receive reassurance from a Master Black Belt mentor that supports the student throughout the year. Our mentors have extensive industry experience in applying Lean Six Sigma tools.”

Company officials meet with the UB team to identify a project that will yield positive results. Students then work 12-16 hours per week at the company during the fall and spring semesters.