The Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation, today highlighted the growth and success of the LEAN training program. More than 3,500 certifications in a variety of LEAN Training Courses have been awarded in the province to participants from over 80 companies through the Manufacturing Productivity program.

LEAN manufacturing is an effective method of reducing waste within the manufacturing process while developing a culture of continuous improvement. LEAN training enhances the skills of the labour force by enabling manufacturers throughout the province to cut costs, increase productivity, boost morale and strengthen their bottom line.

The Provincial Government, through the departments of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation, and Advanced Education, Skills and Labour, in partnership with the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (CME-NL), has contributed over $1.5 million to help promote LEAN training initiatives at the firm level, and through the development of LEAN leveraged learning networks. This investment is supported by both departments, and is an example of a valuable partnership that exists between government, industry and academia.

The Provincial Government continues to adopt LEAN principles in its own structure and services to deliver on commitments in The Way Forward to enhance government efficiency. The Way Forward outlines all actions the Provincial Government is taking to achieve a strong, diversified province with a high standard of living, and can be viewed at thewayforward.gov.nl.ca.

Quotes
“LEAN has positively affected virtually every corner of any industry in which it has been implemented. I encourage all businesses to investigate the potential LEAN has to enhance aspects of your company’s processes. It helps change operating culture and shifts organizational mindsets towards a culture of problem solving and continuous improvement.”
Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation

“LEAN training provides workers throughout Newfoundland and Labrador with valuable skills that enhance their employability. LEAN is just one of the wide variety of training and supports we provide to help ensure the province’s skilled workers are able to take advantage of every opportunity right here at home.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour

“I would like to thank the Provincial Government for its continued support of LEAN. The impact that this training has had on the membership of the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters has been substantial. Firms have reported increases in production in excess of 50%, one firm has reported savings of over $1,000,000 and three of my member firms have stated that LEAN has saved their businesses. The contributions of financial support as well as the partnership efforts of provincial staff have been very impactful on the membership of CME-NL. We look forward to continuing support in advancing the Manufacturing, Processing and Export Development sectors in this province.”
David Haire
Vice President, CME-NL

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Media contacts
Eric Humber
Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation
709-729-4819, 725-9655
erichumber@gov.nl.ca

Ryan Crocker
Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
709-729-1795, 725-9595
ryancrocker@gov.nl.ca

David Haire
Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters – NL Division
709-685-5820
david.haire@cme-mec.ca