EP 17: Turning Operations into Opportunities
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Guest: Andrew Glowatsky
In this episode of The Pulse of High Performance, Seth Davies welcomes Andrew Glowatsky, Director of Reliability and Engineering at Church & Dwight. With years of experience in manufacturing and lean practices, Glowatsky shares valuable insights on leadership, continuous improvement, and workforce development.
The Power of Area Information Centers
Glowatsky highlights how Area Information Centers (AICs), also known as SQDC boards, transform communication and performance in manufacturing environments. These tools serve as two-way communication hubs, providing real-time data on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
AICs encourage proactive problem-solving, foster employee recognition, and help alleviate workplace stress by giving employees a platform to document ideas and challenges. This structured approach enhances engagement and keeps teams aligned with operational goals.
Lean and Reliability as a Strategic Advantage
Eliminating waste and increasing efficiency are at the heart of lean principles. Glowatsky explains how structured prioritization ensures that resources are directed toward initiatives that have the greatest impact.
Training at all levels of an organization allows employees to seamlessly integrate lean practices into their daily work. Rather than being seen as an additional task, lean becomes a fundamental way of operating, driving efficiency and continuous improvement.
Building a High-Performance Culture
Strong leadership in manufacturing goes beyond managing processes. Glowatsky emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of mutual respect and continuous learning. Recognizing employee contributions and maintaining open communication are critical to engagement and retention.
One of his key leadership principles is the “5-to-1 rule”—five positive recognitions for every coaching or corrective conversation. This approach builds trust, strengthens morale, and reinforces a culture where employees feel valued.
Navigating Modern Manufacturing Challenges
The manufacturing industry faces constant challenges, from talent retention to adapting to global shifts. Glowatsky discusses strategies for overcoming these obstacles, including building strong community relationships, empowering teams to drive improvements, and prioritizing employee recognition.
By creating an environment where employees feel heard and valued, organizations can navigate these challenges with resilience and innovation.
The Future of AI in Manufacturing
Artificial intelligence is reshaping the manufacturing landscape. Glowatsky highlights AI’s ability to accelerate processes, analyze data trends, and provide predictive insights. Rather than replacing human expertise, AI enhances speed, enables creativity, and optimizes resources to improve capacity without requiring major capital investment.
Glowatsky’s expertise sheds light on the synergy between leadership, lean practices, and technology in building high-performance organizations. His approach to empowering teams, promoting open communication, and leveraging modern tools offers a blueprint for cultivating a culture where innovation thrives.
Tune in to The Pulse of High Performance for more trends, actionable strategies, and success stories from leaders shaping high-performing organizations.
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