SAMES: Building Skills & Sustaining Excellence
MMTC has been an invaluable partner, consistently keeping us informed about grants, resources, new classes, and emerging industry trends. Their programs have not only enhanced our staff’s knowledge but also fostered a shared language and understanding that reinforces our company values.
-- Carrie Hinson, VP Human Resources, Sames Americas
Sames (www.sames.com/usa/en/home.html) has delivered advanced liquid and powder application solutions for 100 years, offering equipment such as automatic and robotic applicators, manual guns, pumps, and dosing systems. Their services include installation audits, consulting, training, repairs, and robotic programming support. Known for innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, Sames is a global company and employs 75 people at its Plymouth, MI site.
Challenge
Sames’ commitment to creating a better world starts within the walls of their organization. This dedication is reflected in their low turnover and ongoing investments in employee growth and retention. At the heart of their culture there is a focus on continuous improvement, not just in operational processes but in the development of their people. Employees are encouraged to expand their skills and pursue career advancement, while current and emerging leaders receive the support and training needed to excel in their roles and ensure effective succession planning. In addition to their upskilling initiatives, Sames was in the process of recertifying their ISO 9001 quality management system.
Solution
After securing Going PRO Talent Funding, Sames partnered with the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC) to design and deliver customized training programs for nearly 60 employees. The participants included new and emerging leaders, quality staff, engineers, and more. Together, Sames and MMTC developed training pathways covering over 15 specialized courses. Offerings included Supervisor Skills 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 and Project Management, which focused on managerial competencies such as time management, accountability, team leadership, and effective communication. Lean and Six Sigma courses, including Six Sigma Yellow Belt, Design of Experiments, and Lean Simulation, addressed data collection strategies, waste reduction, and process efficiency. Quality-focused training, such as Core Tools, Blueprint Reading, ISO 9001 Internal Auditor training, and ISO 14001 Internal Auditor consulting, supported the organization’s recertification and quality management needs.
Results
- New Investment: $53,000
- Retained Jobs: 25%
- Successfully recertified their ISO 9001 Quality Management System
- In the process of obtaining their environmental ISO 14001 Quality Management System certification