The Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) machining plant in Toledo, Ohio, and the stamping plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan, have been awarded silver status for their efforts in implementing world-class manufacturing (WCM) principles. They become the company’s eighth and ninth plants, respectively, to reach this milestone.
WCM, which was first implemented by Fiat in 2006 and introduced to Chrysler Group as part of the alliance between the two companies in 2009, is a production methodology that focuses on eliminating waste, increasing productivity, and improving quality and safety in a systematic and organized way. WCM principles can be applied to all aspects of a plant’s organization, from quality and maintenance to cost control and logistics, all with the goal of continuous improvement. WCM also engages the workforce to provide and implement suggestions on how to improve their jobs and their plants, promoting a sense of ownership.
The Toledo machining and Sterling stamping plants were awarded the silver designation following two-day audits during which they earned a minimum of 60 points in 10 technical and 10 managerial pillars. Employees at both plants demonstrated clear WCM know-how and competence through employee-conducted pillar presentations and a review of projects that have been expanded across the shop floor.
"I want to congratulate the 3,400 employees at Toledo Machining and Sterling Stamping for working tirelessly to achieve silver status," said Brian Harlow, vice president of manufacturing for FCA North America. "Becoming a silver plant requires extraordinary commitment, endless dedication and a laser focus. These employees faced the demands and rigors of WCM head on, using the tools and the knowledge they have gained to implement the changes that make their facilities deserving of the silver designation."
Along with the Toledo machining and Sterling stamping plants, seven other FCA North American facilities have been designated silver plants. They are the Windsor (Ontario) Assembly Plant, Dundee (Michigan) Engine Plant, Toledo (Ohio) Assembly Complex, Saltillo (Mexico) South Engine Plant, Mack Avenue (Detroit) Engine Plant, Saltillo (Mexico) Van Assembly Plant and Warren (Michigan) Stamping Plant.
For more information, visit www.fcanorthamerica.com.