Thank you to our global manufacturing workforce
Today is “National Manufacturing Day” in the U.S. Held annually on the first Friday in October, Manufacturing Day gives us a chance to show people what today’s manufacturing careers are really like. This year we are taking the opportunity to celebrate our manufacturing workforce in each of our facilities worldwide. I can’t think of a better time to recognize and thank the men and women who have worked tirelessly to meet consumer demand during these turbulent times.
Our global manufacturing workforce has not only been working hard; they’ve been working smart. They have been innovative in their approach to adapt to the impact of Covid-19 in each region. I am proud of the “One Whirlpool” mindset I’ve witnessed as our global manufacturing operations continue to share best practices for continuous improvement and adjust to this new reality.
I believe this mindset is a direct benefit of our adoption of the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) methodology. In 2016 we made the decision to use the tools and methodologies of WCM globally, and it has transformed the way we manufacture products. Over the last three years, we have been able to reduce waste and inefficiencies, improve quality and safety, and create cleaner, more streamlined work environments.
Over the years, many economists have cited the manufacturing sector as stimulating more economic activity than any other sector. We have clearly proven this during these unprecedented times marked with significant economic uncertainty.
WCM also enabled us to use new problem-solving tools and processes. When the pandemic challenged us in ways we could have never imagined, our engaged and proactive workforce was able to very quickly adapt and change. In some cases, our plants were able to reconfigure workstations on the assembly lines in less than 24 hours, to accommodate social distancing and keep production running.
Over the years, many economists have cited the manufacturing sector as stimulating more economic activity than any other sector. We have clearly proven this during these unprecedented times marked with significant economic uncertainty. I’ve never been more proud to work in manufacturing—to be a part of an industry that can make such a strong and positive impact on the economy.
If you do not work in manufacturing, I’d like to ask you to give it some thought…no matter what stage you are in on your career path. Manufacturing provides stable, rewarding careers for people with all levels of education and experience. All disciplines are welcome—and needed—in manufacturing. These include great careers in roles that support manufacturing: human resources, marketing, finance, project management, and administrative to name a few. The opportunities are limitless.
If you currently work in manufacturing, thank you for all you do each and every day. The role you play is vital to the community you live in and work in, as well as the world economy.
And, finally, if you work in manufacturing at Whirlpool Corporation, I’m honored to call you my colleague. Thank you for all you have done this year to help us get essential appliances to our consumers. I know this pandemic has challenged us in multiple ways personally and professionally. I appreciate you showing up each and every day. This has been an unparalleled time in our company’s history, and my wish is that you’ll take some time today to reflect on the significant role you play in our mission to be the best kitchen and laundry company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home.
– Dale Laws, North America Manufacturing and Supply Chain
Interested in learning more about global manufacturing at Whirlpool Corporation?
Vinicius Tokuda Kouici shared his thoughts on the importance of WCM on efficiency and the rigor and pace required for it’s enablement to be successful. Luigi La Morgia wrote about the benefits of digital manufacturing during the pandemic. Sam Wu addressed how WCM and the digital transformation in manufacturing will be important in our new normal.
