Lean Team

Michael Beels has served in the role of Lean Program Manager for the Lean Business Solutions Team at the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center for more than 18 years. Michael’s areas of expertise include Leadership training and mentoring, Workforce Engagement and the Employee Experience, Culture, Communication and Succession Planning, as well as the entire portfolio of Lean strategies and methodologies, having led more than 100 kaizen/workshop events. Michael also has been prominent in the development of the Lean Office Program at The Center, helping organizations identify waste and improve processes on the “carpet” side of the business.  

Michael is a professional trainer and has the ability to command an audience and deliver the training message in a way that participants can understand in a clear, non-threatening manner. He leaves trainees charged up and ready to complete training transfer to the shop floor or office environment.

Professional Experience
Prior to joining The Center, Michael was a Value Stream Manager at Mark IV Automotive, a Tier One supplier of fuel filler necks to the major automotive manufactures. Michael’s 30 year manufacturing career has also taken him through G.M. Powertrain Warren, and Unique Fabricating, a company specializing in the creation of sound deadening and vibration control applications. 

Education
Master of Arts in Training & Development, Oakland University
Bachelor of General Studies, Oakland University

Professional Certifications
RAB/QSA Certified Internal Auditor
Qualified Administrator Myers Briggs Type Indicator
Certified Family Business Advisor

PUBLICATIONS

Emotional Intelligence: What’s Your Emotion?
Walking to Eliminate Waste
Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast!
The Next Stage of the Employer/Employee Relationship
Planning for the Future of Your Business with Succession Planning (Part 2)​
Planning for the Future of Your Business with Succession Planning (Part 1)​
What is Value Added vs. Non-Value Added Work?
Keep Your Employees Engaged Before It's Too Late
Struggling to Embrace Lean Culture? Here's Why.
Disengaged Employees? This Post is For You.
Follow the Leader
DBUSINESS: Spring Clean Your Office With Lean and 5S