EAGLE FASTENERS INC: Transitioning from TS to IATF on a Deadline
When we decided to transition to IATF with a 43 day timeline, The Center’s support was a key part of our success. With their knowledge, understanding and teamwork approach, we were able to achieve this.
-- Joe Srock, Vice President
Eagle Fasteners Inc. (EFI) (www.eficustominjectionmolding.com) has been producing quality injection molded parts since 1976. In addition to automotive companies, EFI’s customers include recreational, medical and general industrial users. EFI provides comprehensive services in tooling, prototyping and production, allowing a smooth and efficient path from concept to completion. As an IATF 16949 certified company and a woman-owned business, EFI is positioned to meet the rigorous quality, scheduling and product development requirements of today’s marketplace. EFI employs 28 at their Troy, MI location.
Challenge
With a TS 16949 certificate set to expire, EFI had to choose between updating to ISO 9001:2015 or transitioning to IATF 16949. Due to a push from customers to achieve IATF certification, and a customer base of 65% automotive suppliers, EFI ultimately decided to transition their Quality Management System from TS to IATF. With a rapidly approaching certification deadline, and a staff with no previous knowledge of IATF, EFI needed assistance with their transition.
Solution
With only 43 days to transition to the new IATF standard, EFI sought out The Center for assistance. To bring their management team up to speed on IATF in time, EFI’s Quality Manager, along with two company Vice Presidents, attended IATF Organizational Transition training. Despite the extreme time-crunch they were facing, the training was successful and top management was able to work together to transition to the new standard. Additionally, due to their lack of an existing certified internal auditor, EFI’s Quality Manager attended The Center’s Internal Auditor training to fill this gap in their quality department. Overall, this training helped EFI’s management team gain a deep understanding of IATF and enabled them to achieve their IATF 16949 certification.
Results
- New Investment: $20,000
- New Sales: 15%
- Retained Sales: 65%
- Achieved IATF 16949 certification