As we look toward 2026, the Michigan Lean Consortium is focused on deepening connection, expanding access, and strengthening capability across Michigan’s Lean community. Building on the momentum of 2025, the year ahead brings renewed leadership, the return of favorite programs, and thoughtfully designed learning experiences that support both people and systems.

At its core, 2026 is about creating spaces where Lean practitioners can learn together, challenge assumptions, and build lasting relationships—while continuing to grow the skills needed to lead meaningful improvement.

Leadership & Student Engagement

We are honored to welcome Dr. Debra Levantrosser as MLC’s Higher Education Programs Director in 2026.

A full-time faculty member at the University of Michigan College of Engineering (Industrial & Operations Engineering), Dr. Levantrosser brings more than 35 years of executive and international leadership experience spanning global supply chains, Lean strategy deployment, executive education, and leadership development. As the founder of the Michigan Lean Consortium, her return to Board leadership represents a meaningful full-circle moment. Her passion for student engagement and real-world application of Lean principles will play a key role in developing the next generation of Lean leaders across Michigan.

Alongside Dr. Levantrosser, the MLC is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors committed to strengthening the organization, expanding access to Lean learning, and supporting members across the state:

• Chair: Pamela Burgess

• Vice Chair: Melissa Sherman

• Treasurer: Dr. Patricia Malone

• Secretary: Chenoa Reyes

• Membership Director: Kim Ziegler

• Training Director: Josh Smith

Together, this leadership team brings a wide range of experience across industry, education, healthcare, and the public sector.

A Call to Lead: Interim Board Opportunities

As we grow, so does the opportunity to lead. The Michigan Lean Consortium is currently seeking three engaged members to serve as Interim Directors for Events and Outreach, with terms running through December 31, 2026.

These volunteer leadership roles are well-suited for members who enjoy building community, shaping programming, and strengthening relationships across the Lean ecosystem.

Open Focus Areas Include:

• Large Events (Conferences & Summits)

• Small Events (Virtual Coffees & Gemba Walks)

• Outreach (Relationship Building & Partnerships)

If you’re interested in giving back, growing as a leader, and helping shape MLC’s future, we encourage you to learn more and apply. Details and application instructions are available on our website.

Signature Events & Programs Returning in 2026

Lean Reads & Reflections

Back by popular demand, the MLC Book discussions now called Lean Reads & Reflections returns in 2026 as a space for shared learning, reflection, and thoughtful conversation. Designed to connect theory to practice, these events offers a relaxed, community-centered way to explore ideas and learn from one another.

8th Annual Grand Rapids Lean Summit

Friday, March 6, 2026
GVSU L.V. Eberhard Center

In a time of constant change, alignment and communication are not optional—they are essential. The 2026 Grand Rapids Lean Summit will focus on how organizations can move strategy into action through hoshin kanri, while cultivating transparent, trust-based communication that drives engagement, innovation, and sustainable results.

Participants will gain practical tools and real-world insights to:

• Translate strategic goals into clear, actionable priorities

• Strengthen alignment across teams, departments, and leadership levels

• Practice honest, purpose-driven communication that builds trust

• Reduce confusion, silos, and rework through clearer execution

• Lead change with integrity in complex, people-centered systems

2026 MLC Annual Conference

Navigating Lean: Anchored in Connection
August 4–7, 2026
VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center
460 W Western Ave, Muskegon, MI

Set along Michigan’s lakeshore, the 2026 Annual Conference will bring Lean practitioners together to explore how connection—between people, strategy, and purpose—anchors sustainable improvement. Expect immersive learning, meaningful networking, and inspiration grounded in real-world practice.

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Course – Returning in 2026

For those ready to deepen their practice, the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Course returns in 2026, facilitated by expert instructor Jerry Browne.

This blended learning course runs February–July 2026 and is designed to meet the requirements of ISO 18404 certified Lean Practitioner & Six Sigma Green Belt. Participants gain hands-on experience, practical tools, and coaching support to apply Lean Six Sigma methods directly within their organizations.

Moving Forward with Purpose

From leadership development and student engagement to statewide events and professional certification, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of connection, clarity, and capability-building.

We look forward to continuing this work with you—strengthening Michigan’s Lean community, one improvement at a time.