Strengthen your technical capabilities across critical areas of manufacturing. UW–Madison’s Manufacturing Excellence Certificate helps professionals build practical skills in process improvement, data and analytics, systems design, lead time reduction, and technical execution — all delivered in flexible formats for working professionals.
Learning Outcomes:
- Analyze and solve manufacturing problems using structured, data-informed approaches —Apply data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), design of experiments (DOE), and other statistical tools to identify root causes, validate solutions, and improve product and process performance.
- Drive operational excellence through continuous improvement and practical application of Lean tools — Use Lean principles, 5S, maintenance best practices, and project management to improve flow, eliminate waste, reduce lead times, and sustain process improvements across manufacturing operations.
- Apply systems thinking to design and improve modern manufacturing operations — Understand the interdependencies of manufacturing systems, integrate smart technologies, and support operational agility through thoughtful design and optimization.
- Implement technical solutions to improve responsiveness and enhance manufacturing competitiveness — Use tools from QRM, project management, digital transformation, and smart manufacturing to reduce delays, support process changes, and strengthen performance in manufacturing operations.
Courses (click for available dates)
Live / Synchronous Courses (Choose 4): |
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Data Analytics for Technical Leaders |
Laser-based ManufacturingStay tuned for upcoming dates!
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Operational Excellence: FoundationsStay tuned for upcoming dates!
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Organizational Agility in Digital Transformation: Designing and Leading Change |
QRM Foundation: Implementing QRM for Time-Based Competitiveness |
Root Cause Analysis Tools for Technical Applications |
Smart ManufacturingStay tuned for upcoming dates!
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Self-paced / Online Courses (Choose 4): |
3D Printing: An Introduction to Additive ManufacturingStay tuned for upcoming dates!
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Continuous ImprovementAvailable online anytime – $295.00
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Design of ExperimentsAvailable online anytime – $295.00
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Maintenance Best PracticesAvailable online anytime – $295.00
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Manufacturing Systems and DesignAvailable online anytime – $295.00
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Supply Chain ManagementStay tuned for upcoming dates!
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Technical Project ManagementAvailable online anytime – $295.00
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Who Is This Certificate For?
Professionals in manufacturing operations, quality management, process engineering, maintenance, and continuous improvement. Ideal for building capabilities in root cause analysis, data analytics, lead time reduction, and smart manufacturing.
Certificate Requirements
Complete the following to earn this certificate:
4 live (synchronous) courses—in-person, online or HyFlex.
4 self-paced (asynchronous) online courses.
Manufacturing Excellence Reflection—a written assessment applying knowledge from core concepts.
Time & Cost
Time to completion: 2-4 years, based on individual schedule and course availability.
Cost: Courses are priced as marked. 10% discount for certificate participants.
Commit to Your Career
Strengthen your qualifications for roles in process improvement, smart manufacturing, and advanced manufacturing initiatives. Leverage this Manufacturing Excellence Certificate as part of your professional growth or to pursue advanced credentials.
Program Director
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to take the courses in a specific order?
A: No, you may complete them in any order.
Q: Is the certificate recognized for CEUs?
A: CEUs are awarded for each course completed.
Q: What is Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM) and how is it covered in this certificate?
A: QRM is a time-based strategy focused on reducing lead times across manufacturing and support operations. This certificate includes foundational and applied QRM training through a dedicated course that explores key principles, tools such as Manufacturing Critical-path Time (MCT), and strategies for improving responsiveness in high-mix, low-volume environments.
Q: Are there courses on design of experiments (DOE) or data-driven decision-making?
A: Yes. The program includes a course on design of experiments using Minitab, ideal for improving process optimization and product quality through analytical methods.
Q: Who should enroll in this Manufacturing Excellence Certificate?
A: The program is ideal for professionals in manufacturing operations, quality management, process engineering, maintenance, and continuous improvement. It’s designed for those looking to build technical capabilities in areas such as root cause analysis, data analytics, lead time reduction, and smart manufacturing.
Q: Is there training in continuous improvement, Lean and QRM in this certificate?
A: Yes. The certificate includes practical training in continuous improvement tools such as Lean principles, 5S, and maintenance best practices. It also includes a dedicated course on Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM), focused on lead time reduction in high-mix, low-volume environments. While Lean and QRM have different foundations, both are addressed in the program as time- and efficiency-focused strategies.
Q: How does the certificate support manufacturing process optimization?
A: The certificate provides practical tools for process optimization through courses in root cause analysis, Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM), design of experiments (DOE), and data analytics. Participants learn to identify waste, reduce variability, and improve process performance across operations and supply chains.
Q: Are any of the courses relevant for supply chain efficiency or purchasing professionals?
A: Yes. Several courses, such as Quick Response Manufacturing (QRM), data analytics, and root cause analysis, cover concepts that directly impact supply chain performance. These include lead time reduction, variability analysis, and supplier-related process improvement. While the certificate is primarily focused on manufacturing, many tools are applicable to upstream and downstream supply chain activities.
Q: Does this include a focus on leadership and team coaching for technical teams?
A: This program includes some leadership content, particularly in areas like project execution, change management, and working within technical teams. However, the primary focus is on technical tools and applied manufacturing strategies. For a deeper emphasis on leadership development and team coaching, the Technical Leadership Certificate (TLC) may be a better fit.
Q. What is the “Manufacturing Excellence Reflection?”
A:Besides the required courses, the Manufacturing Excellence Reflection is a key component of the certificate. For this written assessment, you will choose and respond to 3 out of 6 practical scenarios, explaining how you have addressed similar challenges in your work or how you would respond using concepts from the program. The reflection highlights your ability to apply tools such as data analytics, lead time reduction, continuous improvement, and systems thinking to real manufacturing situations.
Q: Can I count courses I’ve already taken toward this certificate?
A: Yes. If you’ve completed eligible courses within the MEC portfolio, they may count toward your certificate requirements.
Still have questions?
Contact Jim Rink for more details or to request information for more details or to request information about this Manufacturing Excellence Certificate or upcoming sessions.
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