Upcoming events

Switch to Calendar View

• MLC Text Messaging Consent

  • Start
    Monday, November 17, 2025
  • End
    Thursday, December 31, 2026

  Register

  

  Sign Up to Receive Text Messages from the Michigan Lean Consortium!

  Stay connected with the MLC — right from your phone!
  By registering for this “event,” you’re giving the Michigan Lean Consortium permission to update your member profile so you can receive helpful text (SMS) messages from us.

  ✅ What you’ll receive:

  • Event announcements and reminders

  • Membership renewal notifications

  • Occasional surveys or quick polls

  This isn’t a real event — registering simply gives us your consent to activate text messaging on your profile. The MLC will handle the update for you so you don’t have to log in and do it yourself.

  Our Promise:
  We value your trust. The MLC will only send messages that are relevant and timely — never spam — and you can opt out at any time.

  Informed Consent for Text (SMS) Messaging 

  With your consent, The Michigan Lean Consortium (MLC) would like to send text (SMS) messages to the mobile number you have provided in our records. By providing your informed consent where indicated, you acknowledge that you have understood the information below and agree to participate in our text (SMS) messaging service. 

  Purpose and Description: MLC’s text (SMS) messaging service is designed to provide you with helpful information, reminders, and notifications via text messages sent to your mobile phone. We may use text (SMS) messages to communicate with you for a variety of purposes, including: 

  • announcements and reminders related to MLC events 

  • reminders about membership renewal 

  • surveys and polls 

  Voluntary Participation: Participation in our text (SMS) messaging service is completely optional. While we aim to keep messages timely and relevant, you may opt out at any time if you no longer find them valuable. 

  Benefits and Risks: Benefits: The text (SMS) messaging service aims to keep you informed about the MLC by providing an additional method of convenient and timely communication.  

  Risks: While every effort will be made to protect the security and confidentiality of information transmitted through text (SMS) messages, there are inherent risks associated with all electronic communication. These risks include unauthorized access, loss of privacy, and potential breach of sensitive information. It is important to be aware that text (SMS) messages may not be entirely secure and could be intercepted or accessed by unintended recipients. 

  Potential Costs: Standard text messaging rates may apply through your mobile carrier. Please check with your provider for any applicable fees. The MLC does not charge any fees for participating in our SMS messaging service. 

  If you would like more information or have any questions, please contact admin@michiganlean.org. 

  
  

  Show details
• 2026 MLC Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Course

  • Start
    Friday, February 13, 2026
  • End
    Friday, July 31, 2026
  • Spaces left
    6

  
  

  MLC Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Course

  Take the next step in your Lean journey with our comprehensive Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Course, facilitated by expert instructor Jerry Browne.

  This blended learning course spans February – July 2026 and is designed to meet the requirements of ISO 18404 certified Lean Practitioner & Six Sigma Green Belt.

  What You will Receive

  Experience an immersive, hands-on approach to learning Six Sigma methodologies with all materials and support included!

  • 6 In-person Classroom Days (Lunch Provided)
  • 5 Virtual Study Hall Sessions
  • Final Exam & Practical Simulation
  • Comprehensive Training Materials (Including Textbooks)
  • Small Class Size for Personalized Instruction (Limited to 16 Participants)

  What to Expect

  • One In-Person Training Day Per Month: Host locations will be at Member organizations in Holland, Zeeland, Grand Rapids, and Constantine Michigan. 
  • Optional Virtual Study Sessions: Monthly virtual sessions available to help you prepare for the exam.
  • Coaching & Project Review: Gain expert feedback as you complete a Six Sigma project throughout the course.

  Boost your skills in Lean Six Sigma with hands-on learning and real-world application!

  Schedule

  In-Person Training Dates (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM)

  • 2/13/26

  • 3/13/26

  • 4/23/26

  • 5/15/26

  • 6/19/26

  • 7/17/26

  Virtual Study Hall Sessions (via Teams, 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM)

  • 2/27/26

  • 3/25/26

  • 5/8/26

  • 6/5/26

  • 7/10/26

  • 7/24/26 (virtual makeup session)

  HOW IT WORKS

  1. Register for this course via the MLC website
  2. Look for the Welcome Email
  3. Follow the instructions
     
  4. Take the course
  5. Apply the Lean Learning to your work!

  
  

  Course 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.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Virtual Lunch & Learn: From Broad Challenges to Focused Action

  • When
    Wednesday, July 22, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

  Register

  

  Join us for a MLC Lean Virtual Lunch & Learn!

  Virtual | Free For Members | 12 PM - 1 PM

  Topic: From Broad Challenges to Focused Action

  Mural and LUMA facilitators will demonstrate how human-centered design methods can help teams move from broad, ambiguous asks—like “be more productive with AI”—to clear, actionable areas of focus.

  In this Session, we will:

  • Explore how to take a wide, undefined problem space and break it into meaningful components

  • Use LUMA methods to gather diverse perspectives and identify patterns within a complex topic

  • Prioritize key areas to focus on, turning input into direction for action

  By the end of this one hour session, you will:

  • Get hands on practice with Mural and LUMA System Templates

  • Learn how to move from broad input to focused priorities using methods like What’s on Your Radar, Affinity Clustering, and Voting

  • Hear how others are using human-centered design approaches to align teams and make progress on complex challenges

  Presenter

  Sam Schumacher is a solutions consultant at Mural focusing on innovation methodology and human-centered ways of working. Prior to Mural, he was a Service Design consultant at IBM, deploying design thinking to untangle complex processes for financial services and healthcare clients

  
  

  
  

  Haley Smith is an Account Manager at Mural supporting government customers. Haley works with government and public sector organizations to align stakeholders and ensure solutions are clearly connected to organizational needs and strategy. She brings a strong foundation in communication and leadership, helping teams align quickly, communicate effectively, and make informed decisions in complex environments.

  

  What is a Virtual Lunch & Learn?

  A Virtual Lunch & Learn offers a relaxed and engaging platform to connect with Lean professionals and explore meaningful discussions in a collaborative virtual environment. 

  • 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
• 2026 MLC Annual Conference

  • Start
    Tuesday, August 04, 2026
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • End
    Friday, August 07, 2026
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    460 W Western Ave, Muskegon, MI 49440
  • Spaces left
    70

  Register

  

  In times of change, growth, and uncertainty, Lean leaders need more than tools, they need connection.

  The 2026 Michigan Lean Consortium Annual Conference brings together continuous improvement professionals from across industries to explore what it means to navigate Lean while staying anchored in connection — to our purpose, our people, and our community.

  Set against the waterfront backdrop of Muskegon, this year’s conference is designed to strengthen your technical skills while deepening the relationships that make improvement sustainable.

  What You Can Expect

  Up to Three Days of Powerful Learning

  • Two full days of breakout sessions and keynote speakers

  • Practical, real-world applications of Lean across industries

  • Actionable insights you can bring back to your organization immediately

  Meaningful Networking

  Lean is a people system — and this conference is built to reflect that. Dedicated networking activities outside the classroom create space to:

  • Build authentic connections

  • Exchange ideas with peers

  • Continue informal learning in a relaxed setting

  Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to Lean, you’ll find a welcoming, collaborative community ready to share and learn together.

  Gemba Walks

  “Go see” what excellence looks like in action.
  Our Gemba experiences provide the opportunity to:

  • Observe real processes in real environments

  • Ask thoughtful questions

  • Learn directly from organizations practicing continuous improvement

  There is no substitute for seeing the work where it happens. 

  Click Here for the Full Conference Schedule

  

  Speakers and Presentations

  We’re excited to welcome a diverse lineup of speakers from across industries who will share real-world Lean experiences, practical strategies, and lessons learned to help you navigate continuous improvement in your organization.

  Keynotes

  

  Elisabeth Swan

  President | Swan Consulting & Associates, Inc 

  
  

  
  

  
  

  

  Andy Worshek

  Expert on Intent-Based Leadership, Author & Former Sonar Chief on the USS Santa Fe

   

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Click here the full list of Speakers

  

  Thank You to our Sponsors!

  Gold

    

   

  Silver

   

  Bronze

  
  

  

  Sponsor the Conference Today

  Organizations that sponsor the Michigan Lean Consortium 2026 Annual Conference place their brand at the center of Michigan’s continuous improvement community.

  With 120 expected attendees, 637 members, and a reach of 2,700+ subscribers and social followers, sponsorship offers strong visibility before, during, and after the event.

  From vendor tables and stage recognition to social media spotlights, there are multiple ways to showcase your organization while supporting Lean across Michigan. 

  Click here for Sponsorship Opportunities

  

  Students

  Scholarship Funding May Be Available.

  MLC student members can apply for scholarship support to help cover the cost of Annual Conference registration. Awards are based on available funding and reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply early.

  Click Here to Apply for a Scholarship

  Not yet an MLC student member? Join here.

  

  Thursday Night Excursions: Choose Your Port

  Note: These excursions are a separate add-on and aren't included in your conference registration. You'll book and pay directly with the provider.

  
  

  The harbor is full of possibilities — Choose Your Port and set sail for an evening of exploration, with several local destinations to discover alongside new connections.

  Aquastar Lake Cruise

  The Aquastar is a U.S. Coast Guard–certified Seasonal Leisure Vessel operating on beautiful Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan. Based at Mart Dock in downtown Muskegon, the Aquastar offers a memorable way to enjoy West Michigan’s waterfront, skyline, and sunsets from the water. We can accomodate up to 150 guests and sail past many landmarks in Muskegon Lake before enjoying a stellar sunset in Lake Michigan! 

  ⚓Boarding begins at 7:30, Cruise 8pm-10pm

  ⚓Use discount code “MLC5OFF”

  Click on this Flyer for More Information

  

  Hotel Accommodations

  Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center: Book your stay here.

  Update: A limited number of rooms have been added to the MLC room block rate of $199.00 (plus fees), available until July 17th unless they sell out before. Call 231-722-0100 to check on availability and ask for the MLC rate.

  Room Block ended 07/05/2026. We look forward to welcoming you to Muskegon for a successful and engaging event!

  

  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!

  
  

  

  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.

   Disclaimer

  By registering for Michigan Lean Consortium (MLC) events, you acknowledge and agree that photographs, videos, and other media taken during the event may be used by MLC for business purposes, marketing, and promotional materials. If you have concerns, please contact the event organizer prior to the event.

  Show details
• MLC Lean Virtual Coffee: Lessons from the Green Belt

  • When
    Friday, August 14, 2026
  •  
    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 Green Belt 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 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
• MLC Lean Virtual Coffee

  • When
    Friday, September 11, 2026
  •  
    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, October 09, 2026
  •  
    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 13, 2026
  •  
    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 11, 2026
  •  
    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
• 2027 MLC Annual Conference

  • Start
    Tuesday, August 03, 2027
  •  
    3:00 PM
  • End
    Friday, August 06, 2027
  •  
    12:00 PM
  • Location
    715 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49686
  • Spaces left
    125

  Registration is closed

  
  

  Save the Date

  August 3 - 6, 2027

  Hagerty Center | Traverse City

  
  

  What You Can Expect

  Up to Three Days of Powerful Learning

  
  

  • Two full days of breakout sessions and keynote speakers

  • Practical, real-world applications of Lean across industries

  • Actionable insights you can bring back to your organization immediately

  

  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!

  
  

  

  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.

   Disclaimer

  By registering for Michigan Lean Consortium (MLC) events, you acknowledge and agree that photographs, videos, and other media taken during the event may be used by MLC for business purposes, marketing, and promotional materials. If you have concerns, please contact the event organizer prior to the event.

  Show details