Course Overview
In this hands-on course, you'll learn how to apply structured RCA tools like the 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, Fault Tree Analysis, and more to uncover the true sources of persistent problems. Through real-world examples and interactive workshops, you'll gain the confidence to lead RCA events and implement lasting solutions. Whether you're in design, manufacturing, quality, or systems engineering, this course will help you reduce downtime, improve quality, and boost team performance.
Who Should Attend
- Engineers and technical professionals responsible for solving recurring issues in design, manufacturing, or maintenance.
- Quality, operations, and maintenance leaders seeking to improve reliability and reduce waste.
- Systems engineers and software developers aiming to enhance process stability and product performance.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply a structured 6-step RCA process to identify and eliminate root causes of technical issues.
- Select and use the right RCA tools for different types of problems, including 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagrams, and Fault Tree Analysis.
- Develop actionable countermeasures and sustain improvements using tools like A3 Reports and Project Charters.
Course Outline
Day 1
Overview of the root cause analysis (RCA)
- Elements of the RCA 6-step process
- Definition and benefits of RCA
- Key tasks for organizing a successful RCA event
- Defining roles and responsibilities
- Process for identifying and selecting an RCA event
Overview of RCA tools and workshop activities
- 5 Why
- Fishbone Diagram (Ishikawa Diagram)
Day 2
Overview of RCA tools and workshop activities
- Design and Application Review
- Sequence of events
- Fault tree analysis
- Change analysis
Review tools for managing RCA event and sustaining improvements
- Project Charter
- A3 Report
- Audits
Instructor
George Williams
George is the founder and CEO of ReliabilityX and a recognized leader in the field of maintenance and reliability. He holds a master’s degree in reliability engineering from Monash University and began his career in maintenance while still in high school, working alongside his father. George spent 16 years with a major pharmaceutical company, advancing from technician to global asset management leader. His team earned the prestigious Uptime Award for Best Maintenance and Reliability Program in 2015. A Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) and Certified Reliability Leader, George was named CMRP of the Year by the Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals in 2016. He also holds certifications in vibration analysis, infrared thermography, ultrasound, motion amplification, and plant maintenance management. A published author and experienced educator, George has been teaching maintenance and reliability courses for UW–Madison Interdisciplinary Professional Programs since 2010.
Upcoming dates
Root Cause Analysis Tools for Technical Applications
Location: Madison, WI or Live Online
Course #: RA01659-E087
Fee: $1,495
interpro.wisc.edu/RA01659
Fee
- $1,495
This course has two attendance options, face-to-face or online.
Face-to-face attendance fee includes morning and afternoon breaks, scheduled lunches, in-person instruction, and course materials.
Online attendance fee includes online instruction and course materials. Online attendees will access course sessions via the Zoom web conferencing platform.
Discounts
10% discount per person for participants registered in the Technical Leadership Certificate series. Promo code needed during registration.
Credits
- CEU: 1.4
- PDH: 14
Schedule
Registration Date/Time:
4/14/2027 7:30am Central Time
Event Dates/Times:
- 4/14/2027 8:00am - 4:30pm Central Time
- 4/15/2027 8:00am - 4:30pm Central Time
Course Notes
This is a HyFlex (in-person and online) taught course. Please be prepared to attend all days either in-person or online. Contact us if you have any questions or if you need to make a change.
This course uses the Canvas course management and Zoom platforms. A UW NetID is required to access the online course site. Both in-person and online students should have a NetID and access the Canvas course website. Your registration confirmation email will give you instructions on how to create a NetID and log into Canvas.
Canvas will have digital materials for this course. Please watch the email address you provided for important course updates and information. Check your spam file if you do not see emails from the "wisc.edu" addresses.
Instructor
George Williams
Location
Accommodations
Accommodations include: Enjoy complimentary business center, WiFi and Local/Airport Shuttle. Each room has a refrigerator, microwave, 42-inch HDTV, and executive desk. Parking available $15/night.
Room: rates start at $160
Accommodations include: Complimentary WiFi, Local/Airport Shuttle, Pool, and Fitness Center.
Accommodations include: Your stay includes hot breakfast buffet, fitness center, business center, convenient on-site parking. Guest rooms are complete with Keurig coffee maker, refrigerator, complimentary high-speed Internet, and 40-inch, flat screen, high-def TVs.
Cancellation Policy
If you cannot attend, please notify us as soon as possible before the course start date for a refund. Once you access course materials, a refund is not available.