Lenior, NC-based Teijin Automotive Technologies received the 2024 NCMEP Manufacturing Excellence Award.

Continuous improvement in manufacturing is a strategic approach focused on systematically enhancing production processes, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency. Rooted in principles like Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing, this methodology involves the relentless pursuit of incremental changes to improve quality and performance. By fostering a culture of ongoing refinement and employee involvement, manufacturers can adapt to evolving market demands, boost productivity, and maintain a competitive edge. Continuous improvement not only drives operational excellence but also cultivates innovation and resilience within the manufacturing sector.

Teijin Automotive Technologies is a compression molding manufacturer specializing in components for the automotive and transportation industry. It supplies parts for renowned companies such as GM, Chrysler, and Toyota. The organization’s “Our Way” initiative enhances standardization, fosters accountability, and boosts employee engagement. This innovative system required a deep understanding of how various business aspects intersect and impact each operational or functional area within the facility. Located in Lenoir, North Carolina, it is committed to sustainability, safety, and cutting-edge design and is revolutionizing how we think about automotive manufacturing.

On this Episode of Clocking In, NCMEP director Phil Mintz talks to Teijin Automotive’s plant manager Tracy Gray, and continuous improvement manager Ryan Biddix. Gray has been at the forefront of Teijin’s “Our Way” culture. He has been with the organization since 2014 and helped pave the way to receiving the NCMEP Manufacturing Excellence Award and AME Award for Excellence.

Biddix develops and manages new designs, projects, and processes to supply Teijin Automotive customers with the highest-quality rotationally molded products. Biddix graduated with an associate’s degree in mechanical engineering from Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Western Carolina University.

Mintz, Gray and Biddex discuss the continuous improvement initiatives that won Teijin Automotive the 2024 Continuous Improvement Leadership Award and more.

LINKS

NCMEP

Teijin Automotive

Phil Mintz is the executive director of NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and director of the North Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NCMEP). At NCMEP, Phil drives outreach to NC manufacturers, builds relationships with federal and state leaders and coordinates efforts to drive profitable manufacturing growth in the state. He also leads the broader IES Extension Operations outreach unit of regional managers, technical specialists and business development leaders providing business engagement, assessment and improvement tools. This includes statewide peer networks, ISO 9000 quality management systems, Six Sigma, Lean manufacturing, environmental services, and health and safety solutions.

Tracy Gray is the plant manager at Teijin Automotive Technologies. Gray has been at the forefront of Teijin’s “Our Way” culture. He has been with the organization since 2014 and helped pave the way to receiving the AME Award for Excellence.

Ryan Biddix is the continuous improvement manager for Teijin Automotive Technologies. He develops and manages new designs, projects, and processes to supply Teijin Automotive customers with the highest-quality rotationally molded products. Biddix graduated with an associate’s degree in mechanical engineering from Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Western Carolina University.