Orchid Orthopedic Solutions, a global leader in contract manufacturing for the orthopedic market, exemplifies how Lean principles can drive excellence in high-precision, highly regulated industries. Specializing in implants, instruments, and innovative technologies for joint replacements, spine, and trauma surgeries.

Recently, Orchid Orthopedic Solutions joined the Michigan Lean Consortium (MLC) as a Huron Member, formalizing a longstanding relationship with the Lean community in Michigan. While several team members had previously held individual memberships, the decision to become an organizational member was driven by a shared vision: Lean is for everyone.

That vision is championed by Holy Plaga, Operational Excellence Global Leader, who has been involved with the MLC since 2010. Over the years, she has served in a variety of roles, including Chair of the Board of Directors, and has consistently championed the organization.

Orchid’s organizational membership has helped expand access to Lean resources across its global footprint. In addition to U.S.-based participants, the company has team members from around the world engaged with the MLC, including a colleague in Sheffield, England, who actively participates in online programming. This reach demonstrates the power of MLC’s virtual offerings to connect Lean thinkers across borders and time zones.

Since joining as an organizational member, Orchid has taken full advantage of the MLC’s diverse offerings:

✅ Affordable, high-impact professional development
✅ Cross-industry collaboration and idea exchange
✅ Access to Lean tools and thought leadership
✅ Volunteer opportunities for team members in roles that may not traditionally offer them

Team members have already begun collaborating with other MLC member organizations, sparking new ideas and meaningful improvements. Gaining outside perspectives and unfiltered feedback has helped reinforce a culture of learning, experimentation, and shared purpose.

As Orchid continues to build and sustain its Lean culture, the MLC is proud to be a trusted partner.

With a strong emphasis on people, collaboration, and continuous improvement, Orchid exemplifies what it means to lead Lean from within, whether that’s in Michigan, across the U.S., or around the world.

As Pascal Dennis said, “Intensity is the soul of lean production, and team members are its heart.” At Orchid, that belief lives in every improvement effort, every collaboration, and every voice.

Here’s to the next chapter of continuous improvement, powered by people.