We’re leading through service
Powerful things happen when people are in sync, when employees understand the company’s goals and their role on the team, and have the freedom and responsibility to make decisions. For manufacturers, such unity is a journey that never ends.
Over the years, Ace customers have used many words to describe their experience with us: consistent, reliable, problem-solver, and honest.
It’s flattering and humbling to have customers think of us that way and to place long-term confidence in us. Many manufacturers would be satisfied with receiving those compliments. We believe we can do more for our customers, communities, and associates.
In early 2002, we took a big step toward manufacturing excellence. Our Lean journey has involved not only philosophical shifts, changing from the traditional batch mentality to customer-driven manufacturing, but also physical shifts, through substantial capital investments in equipment, computer systems, air quality, and training to reduce waste and improve productivity.
Our associates are helping create a culture of learning, teaming and empowered decision-making. We have focused on improving our people through training, not only in the tasks associated with a specific machine or function, but also soft skills and Lean education. We’re also cross-training them to increase the value and flexibility of our cell teams.
We’re investing in our communities
Ace hosts workshops, tours and breakfast meetings through our memberships with organizations such as Association of Manufacturing Excellence (AME), Tooling & Manufacturing Association (TMA), Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), and Alliance for Illinois Manufacturing/NORBIC. Our executives share our Lean journey and learn from others at various national and international conferences.
Today, we believe Ace is a better supplier to our customers, a better customer to our suppliers and a better place to work for our associates. I would like to know what you think too. Please feel free to e-mail me.
Sincerely,
Dale Ball President, Ace Metal Crafts dale.ball@acemetal.com