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• MLC Lean Virtual Coffee: Lessons from Green Belt Pilot

  • When
    Friday, August 08, 2025
  •  
    8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
  • Location
    Virtual

  Register

  Join us for a MLC Lean Virtual Coffee!

  Virtual | Free For Members | 8:30am - 9:30am

  Join us for a special Virtual Coffee session as we reflect on the Michigan Lean Consortium’s first-ever Green Belt pilot course—what worked, what surprised us, and how the experience is shaping the future of Lean learning.

  Facilitated by Jerry Browne, seasoned CI educator and Green Belt course instructor, this panel will feature insights from several pilot participants who have already begun applying what they learned in real-world settings. From project selection to mindset shifts, you’ll hear first-hand how the training is translating into results—and lessons you can take back to your own team.

  ✅ Discover key takeaways from the Green Belt curriculum
  ✅ Learn how participants are applying their skills in the workplace
  ✅ Explore how MLC is adapting Lean education for impact and accessibility

  Whether you're new to Lean, exploring certification, or supporting others on their CI journey, this session offers valuable insights into how quality training becomes transformational practice.

  Panel Moderator: Jerry Browne

  

  Jerry Browne is an experienced instructor that has been leading quality and continuous improvement trainings across the state of Michigan full time since May of 2023.  He has over 14 years of experience in quality and continuous improvement roles in a variety of industries including vaccine manufacturing, medical device manufacturing, paper/plastics manufacturing, industrial manufacturing and hospitals.  Jerry has received his Masters of Education in Instructional Design from Western Governor’s University where is capstone focus was on the transfer of training from the classroom into work practice.  He also currently holds associate and bachelor’s degrees in business administration.  Jerry has conducted Dr Deming’s red bead experiment across the state of Michigan, including the Annual Deming Conference at MSU.  He has presented at numerous Michigan Lean Consortium (MLC) events and has served as a member of the MLC Advisory Board.  Jerry has a tremendous passion for educating others, particularly in quality and continuous improvement methodologies. 

  What is a Virtual Coffee?

  A Virtual Coffee offers a relaxed and engaging platform to connect with Lean professionals and explore meaningful discussions in a collaborative virtual environment. These sessions combine the best of our Coffee Chats and Book Club, offering a platform to discuss all things Lean, share professional challenges, and explore solutions with like-minded peers. 

  • Opportunity to connect with other Lean practitioners and like-minded individuals. 

  • Attendees are able to ask questions, interact with the presenter and other attendees virtually.  

  Why attend?

  • Leverage Collective Knowledge: Tap into the expertise of our MLC membership. 

  • Focus on Lean Implementation: Discuss practical applications of Lean tools and strategies. 

  • Networking Opportunities: Expand your network of Lean professionals. 

  • Share and Learn: Exchange best practices and gain insights from others' experiences. 

  • Stay Engaged: Stay connected with the MLC community and learn about upcoming events. 

  Join us for a session filled with ideas, insights, and inspiration—all from the comfort of your home or office!

  Cost

  Members: Free

  Non-Members: $20

  New To The MLC?

  At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.

  An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!

  
  

  Show details
• 2025 MLC Annual Conference

  • Start
    Tuesday, August 12, 2025
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • End
    Friday, August 15, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    Bavarian Inn & Lodge, Frankenmuth, MI
  • Spaces left
    5

  Register

  
  

  Willkommen Verbesserung!

  (Welcome Improvement!)

  
  

  The 2025 MLC Annual Conference embraces the theme "Lean Excellence: Building on a Legacy" to celebrate the evolution and  impact of Lean principles. This year’s conference will focus on honoring the foundational practices that have driven success while exploring innovative strategies to propel Lean excellence into the future.

  Join us as we connect with leaders, practitioners, and visionaries who are shaping the next chapter of Lean. Together, we’ll explore how to build on past achievements, sustain momentum, and drive continuous improvement for lasting success.

  Conference Highlights

  Click Here for the

  Full Conference Schedule

  • Up to 4 days of amazing learning and networking — Including 2 days of Breakout Sessions and Keynote Speakers
  • Breakout Sessions — with a variety of topics and speakers to chose from.
  • Panel of Lean Experts — An incredible opportunity to learn
    
  • Networking — Dedicated activities outside the classroom to network and bond with other learners, make connections, and continue “informal” learning.
  • Gemba Walks — “Go see” what is happening and learn from others experiences.
  • Bavarian Blast Waterpark — Michigan's BRAND NEW largest indoor waterpark!

  Click Here to:

  Check out our Presenters & Gemba Walks!

  Thank you to our Sponsors!

  Diamond

  
  

  Gold

  

  Ruby

      
  

  
  

  Partner

  
  

  Silver

  

  Bronze

      

  
  

  Sponsorship Opportunities

  Download Sponsorship PDF

  
  

  Hotel Blocks

  The blocks are for Tuesday, August 12 - Thursday, August 14. If you would like to extend your stay, please call the hotel and use the group code.

  Bavarian Inn Lodge

  One Covered Bridge Lane

  Frankenmuth, MI 48734

  Book Online: Michigan Lean Consortium Booking Page*

  *Group Code: 13V5ZO

  Call: 855-652-7200 ask for the Michigan Lean Consortium Group Rate

  
  

  Group Guaranteed Rates: Ended July 11, 2025. Call for current rates.

  (includes up to 4 waterpark passes per room based on occupancy)

  Standard Room	$189 per night
  Suite	$279 per night

  The Bavarian Inn Lodge will apply a $29.95 daily resort fee to all reservations, subject to 6% state sales tax. Room rates are subject to 6% sate sales tax and 7% occupancy tax/city assessment.

  Group rate reservations are due 30 days prior to arrival. A credit card guarantee is required to hold each individual's reservation and will be charged for the first night's stay plus tax. A cancellation fee of the first night's room and tax will apply should a guest cancel their reservation less than 72 hours prior to arrival or does not arrive to check in on their scheduled arrival date. 

  Drury Hotels (Pet Friendly! View Pet Policy)

  260 S Main St

  Frankenmuth, MI 48734

  Book Online: Drury Hotels Group Booking Page
  Call: 1-800-325-0720 and ask for the Michigan Lean Consortium Group Rate
  Group Code: 10141221

  Group Guaranteed Rates: Ended 06/27. call for current rates.

  • 1 King Bed Deluxe Upper – $190 per night
  • 2 Queen Beds Deluxe Upper – $170 per night
  • 2 Room Suite, 2 Queen Beds – $190 per night
    (Rates are based on single or double occupancy. An additional charge of $10 per guest per night applies for extra occupants.)

  Reservation & Cancellation Policy:

  • Reservation Deadline: Friday, June 27, 2025 – After this date, rooms will be released and subject to availability at prevailing rates.
  • A credit card guarantee is required to hold your reservation.
  • Cancellations: A cancellation fee of one night’s room and tax will apply if canceled less than 72 hours prior to arrival.

  
  

  Frankenmuth

  Known as Michigan's Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth offers a charming and unique backdrop for the 2025 MLC Annual Conference. With its rich German heritage, scenic landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere, Frankenmuth is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Lean excellence while enjoying the town’s world-famous hospitality. From quaint shops and delicious cuisine to the stunning Bavarian Inn Lodge—our conference venue—you’ll experience a blend of tradition and inspiration at every turn.

  Come for the learning, stay for the charm of Frankenmuth! 

  New To The MLC?

  At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.

  An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!

  
  

  Conference Cancellation Policy

  We understand that plans change. In the event you are unable to attend an event, refunds will be issued in full for cancellation refund requests received in writing via the events@michiganlean.org email at least seven (7) days before the event. Refunds will not be issued when less than a seven (7) day notice is provided. After submitting your cancellation refund request via email, please allow up to ten (10) business days for your refund to be processed. If the event is rescheduled, all purchases will be honored for the rescheduled event date. If the event is cancelled, all purchases will be refunded in full.

  Show details
• MLC Lean Virtual Coffee

  • When
    Friday, September 12, 2025
  •  
    8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
  • Location
    Virtual

  Register

  Join us for a MLC Lean Virtual Coffee!

  Virtual | Free For Members | 8:30am - 9:30am

  What is a Virtual Coffee?

  A Virtual Coffee offers a relaxed and engaging platform to connect with Lean professionals and explore meaningful discussions in a collaborative virtual environment. These sessions combine the best of our Coffee Chats and Book Club, offering a platform to discuss all things Lean, share professional challenges, and explore solutions with like-minded peers. 

  • Opportunity to connect with other Lean practitioners and like-minded individuals. 

  • Attendees are able to ask questions, interact with the presenter and other attendees virtually.  

  Why attend?

  • Leverage Collective Knowledge: Tap into the expertise of our MLC membership. 

  • Focus on Lean Implementation: Discuss practical applications of Lean tools and strategies. 

  • Networking Opportunities: Expand your network of Lean professionals. 

  • Share and Learn: Exchange best practices and gain insights from others' experiences. 

  • Stay Engaged: Stay connected with the MLC community and learn about upcoming events. 

  Join us for a session filled with ideas, insights, and inspiration—all from the comfort of your home or office!

  Cost

  Members: Free

  Non-Members: $20

  New To The MLC?

  At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.

  An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!

  
  

  Show details
• 2025 MLC Student Competition at Lean Solutions Summit

  • Start
    Wednesday, September 24, 2025
  •  
    8:00 AM
  • End
    Thursday, September 25, 2025
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • Location
    Detroit, MI

  Register

  

  2025 MLC Student Competition at

  Lean Solutions Global Summit

       

  A DYNAMIC TEST OF TEAMWORK, CREATIVITY, AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

  Three teams set to compete in this fast-paced, hands-on challenge where real-world problems meet innovative student solutions. Modeled after the Lean Excellence World Championship, this student edition provides future Lean leaders to take on a live Kaizen-style challenge designed to push the limits of collaboration, critical thinking, and continuous improvement.

  Student formed teams of four will use a catapult system to observe and collect process data. The teams will then be challenged to create the most standardized and repeatable process they can develop throughout the competition. As a team they will be working together to identify and reduce variation in a fun competitive setting! Teams will be scored on their use of the methods, the results of their catapult throws, their ability to work together as a team, and more!
  

  Student Teams:

  Team 1 : University of Michigan

  
  

  
  

  Team 2 : To be announced soon!

  
  

  
  

  Team 3 : To be announced soon!

  
  

  

  Opportunities to Support:

  
  

  Your contributions will help provide students the ability to attend Lean training and events now and in the future.

  
  

  Competition Sponsor $500: 

  Your donation will help fund the student competition, allowing students and coaches to compete and attend the Summit with minimal costs. Sponsors will have the option to include their logo on the student competition t-shirts, a sponsor banner that will be displayed throughout the 2025 Lean Solutions Global Summit, and the MLC Student Competition event webpage. 

  Advertising Sponsor $100: 

  Your donation will help fund the student competition, allowing students and coaches to compete and attend the Summit with minimal costs. Sponsors will have the option to include their logo on the  sponsor banner that will be displayed throughout the 2025 Lean Solutions Global Summit and the MLC Student Competition event webpage.

  Penny Wars: 

  Support your favored team by casting votes through our online "Penny Wars". Each vote will contribute towards the Popular Vote portion of the Student Competition. Your donation will help fund the student competition, allowing students and coaches to compete and attend the Summit with minimal costs.

  
  

  Donors can choose from 3 online voting options: 

  $5 = 1 Vote for your favored Team

  $20 = 10 Votes for your favored Team

  $50 = 50 Votes for your favored Team

  Select your Teams "Penny War" link and Vote Today!

  
  

  Registered guests of the 2025 Lean Solutions Global Summit may elect to cast their Penny War votes in-person at the Michigan Lean Consortium Booth.

  
  

  Competition winners will be announced at the 2025 Lean Solutions Global Summit on Thursday, September 25th.

  MLC Student Fund: 

  MLC Student Fund: We've made it easy to support the MLC Student Fund. Your donation will help provide current and future students the ability to attend Lean training and events. Select the Scholarship Fund link on this Student Competition page to donate $50 towards the fund, or to donate another amount of your choice contact admin@michiganlean.org for a link to donate another amount of your choosing.

  
  

  

  
  

  Sponsors:

  
  

  
  

  

  New To The MLC?

  At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.

  An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!

  

  
  

  Show details
• Gemba Tour - Menlo Innovations

  • When
    Friday, October 03, 2025
  •  
    10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    339 E Liberty, Ste 210, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
  • Spaces left
    20

  Register

  
  

  MLC Gemba Tour – Menlo Innovations

  October 3, 2025 | 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

  339 E Liberty, Ste 210, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

  
  

  Come experience the Menlo Innovations Software Factory! We invite you to experience the joyful and disciplined methodologies that are the foundation on which we have built our business culture. On this tour, a pair of Menlo team members will spend 90 minutes guiding you through the Menlo “factory” while sharing our practices, culture, and values. Plus, you'll have time to ask us any questions you want- really, ask us anything your heart desires!

  Some commonly covered topics include:
  

  • How Menlo built an intentional culture focused on joy and agility
  • How we handle our projects, from user-centered iterative design to visual management to show-and-tells with our clients
  • How pairing and strategically rotating resources through project teams, departments, or roles can cut down on "towers of knowledge"
  • How to promote collaboration in your work environment
  • Using High-Tech Anthropology® to create products people want to use
  • Running experiments as a way to pursue culture change
  • What a lack of traditional HR means for our team in relation to hiring, promotion, and feedback
  • How we adjusted our culture/practices to support a hybrid work environment

  
  

  Bonus for Attendees

  When you register to attend the Menlo Gemba, you’ll receive a complimentary copy of your choice of Joy Inc. or Chief Joy Officer, two powerful books by Menlo co-founder Richard Sheridan.

  • Joy Inc. shares the story of how Menlo Innovations created a culture of joy in the workplace through radical transparency, collaboration, and purpose-driven work.

  • Chief Joy Officer dives deeper into the leadership principles that sustain joyful cultures, offering guidance on how to lead with authenticity, trust, and humility.

  These books offer valuable insights that complement your Gemba experience—helping you take the joy back to your own organization.

  

  Logistics

  Who Should Attend?
  This event is perfect for Lean professionals, continuous improvement leaders, and anyone interested in hands-on problem-solving through real-world observation.

  Parking

  Limited metered street parking is also available near the building. Maximum parking time is 2 hours.

  Parking Structures

  Liberty Square Parking Structure

  This structure is located at 510 E Washington Street with a pedestrian exit on Liberty Street, a block east from our location.

  Library Lane Parking Garage

  This underground garage is located at 319 S. Fifth Avenue. Access the lot by turning on Library Lane from either Fifth Avenue or Division Street. Our location is one block north of this garage.

  Registration Cancellations
  

  We understand that plans change. In the event you are unable to attend an event, refunds will be issued in full for cancellation refund requests received in writing via the events@michiganlean.org email at least seven (7) days before the event. Refunds will not be issued when less than a seven (7) day notice is provided. After submitting your cancellation refund request via email, please allow up to ten (10) business days for your refund to be processed. If the event is rescheduled, all purchases will be honored for the rescheduled event date. If the event is cancelled, all purchases will be refunded in full.
  

  New To The MLC?

  At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.

  An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!

  
  

  Show details
• MLC Lean Virtual Coffee

  • When
    Friday, October 10, 2025
  •  
    8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
  • Location
    Virtual

  Register

  Join us for a MLC Lean Virtual Coffee!

  Virtual | Free For Members | 8:30am - 9:30am

  What is a Virtual Coffee?

  A Virtual Coffee offers a relaxed and engaging platform to connect with Lean professionals and explore meaningful discussions in a collaborative virtual environment. These sessions combine the best of our Coffee Chats and Book Club, offering a platform to discuss all things Lean, share professional challenges, and explore solutions with like-minded peers. 

  • Opportunity to connect with other Lean practitioners and like-minded individuals. 

  • Attendees are able to ask questions, interact with the presenter and other attendees virtually.  

  Why attend?

  • Leverage Collective Knowledge: Tap into the expertise of our MLC membership. 

  • Focus on Lean Implementation: Discuss practical applications of Lean tools and strategies. 

  • Networking Opportunities: Expand your network of Lean professionals. 

  • Share and Learn: Exchange best practices and gain insights from others' experiences. 

  • Stay Engaged: Stay connected with the MLC community and learn about upcoming events. 

  Join us for a session filled with ideas, insights, and inspiration—all from the comfort of your home or office!

  Cost

  Members: Free

  Non-Members: $20

  New To The MLC?

  At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.

  An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!

  
  

  Show details
• MLC Lean Virtual Coffee

  • When
    Friday, November 14, 2025
  •  
    8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
  • Location
    Virtual

  Register

  Join us for a MLC Lean Virtual Coffee!

  Virtual | Free For Members | 8:30am - 9:30am

  What is a Virtual Coffee?

  A Virtual Coffee offers a relaxed and engaging platform to connect with Lean professionals and explore meaningful discussions in a collaborative virtual environment. These sessions combine the best of our Coffee Chats and Book Club, offering a platform to discuss all things Lean, share professional challenges, and explore solutions with like-minded peers. 

  • Opportunity to connect with other Lean practitioners and like-minded individuals. 

  • Attendees are able to ask questions, interact with the presenter and other attendees virtually.  

  Why attend?

  • Leverage Collective Knowledge: Tap into the expertise of our MLC membership. 

  • Focus on Lean Implementation: Discuss practical applications of Lean tools and strategies. 

  • Networking Opportunities: Expand your network of Lean professionals. 

  • Share and Learn: Exchange best practices and gain insights from others' experiences. 

  • Stay Engaged: Stay connected with the MLC community and learn about upcoming events. 

  Join us for a session filled with ideas, insights, and inspiration—all from the comfort of your home or office!

  Cost

  Members: Free

  Non-Members: $20

  New To The MLC?

  At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.

  An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!

  
  

  Show details
• MLC Lean Virtual Coffee

  • When
    Friday, December 12, 2025
  •  
    8:30 AM - 9:30 AM
  • Location
    Virtual

  Register

  Join us for a MLC Lean Virtual Coffee!

  Virtual | Free For Members | 8:30am - 9:30am

  What is a Virtual Coffee?

  A Virtual Coffee offers a relaxed and engaging platform to connect with Lean professionals and explore meaningful discussions in a collaborative virtual environment. These sessions combine the best of our Coffee Chats and Book Club, offering a platform to discuss all things Lean, share professional challenges, and explore solutions with like-minded peers. 

  • Opportunity to connect with other Lean practitioners and like-minded individuals. 

  • Attendees are able to ask questions, interact with the presenter and other attendees virtually.  

  Why attend?

  • Leverage Collective Knowledge: Tap into the expertise of our MLC membership. 

  • Focus on Lean Implementation: Discuss practical applications of Lean tools and strategies. 

  • Networking Opportunities: Expand your network of Lean professionals. 

  • Share and Learn: Exchange best practices and gain insights from others' experiences. 

  • Stay Engaged: Stay connected with the MLC community and learn about upcoming events. 

  Join us for a session filled with ideas, insights, and inspiration—all from the comfort of your home or office!

  Cost

  Members: Free

  Non-Members: $20

  New To The MLC?

  At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.

  An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!

  
  

  Show details