People, Process, and Post-Secondary (E)

In 2019, Red Deer Polytechnic committed to implementing operational excellence practices by training a group of cross-disciplinary employee volunteers in Lean Six Sigma. The outcomes introduced process improvements that realized sustainable economic growth practices while also increasing income-generating opportunities and more fulfilling work for all employees. Internal projects defining scope helped support the conversation about rights at work, strengthening employment, and the post-secondary experience framed around the voice of the student/customer. Since that pilot program, the institution has adopted a new mandate as central Alberta’s first polytechnic, offered the Lean Six Sigma training in local municipalities, and promoted student working opportunities to learn process improvement tools and skills. The inclusive and sustainable program has proven benefits of time and cost savings, collaborative projects, and providing opportunities for full and productive employment. In addition, operational excellence has created change agents in every corner of the organization from faculty and front-line staff to the Executive Leadership Team.A presentation on this topic would explore the value of Lean Six Sigma tools in the post-secondary context and how this foundation has impacted institutional policy and decision making, resulting in inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and a more collaborative work environment.