Western Michigan University offers Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt certification through its Center for Integrated Supply Management. It is ideal for practitioners who want to gain a fundamental understanding of the tools used to drive continuous improvement into their everyday work.
“I recently had the opportunity to attend the Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt training. The course was interactive and fun, and I’m looking forward to being able to use these sought-after skills in my current role and with any future career opportunities.” - Holly Johnson, Bayer
Spring 2023 semester dates
Friday, April 21 and Friday, April 28.
Training takes place in person over two days. Participants must attend both sessions to earn Yellow Belt certification.
Registration ends April 10.
Fall 2023 semester dates
Friday, September 22 and Friday, October 6.
Training takes place in person over two days. Participants must attend both sessions to earn Yellow Belt certification.
Registration ends September 5.
Course Overview: This course is designed to provide a fundamental working knowledge of continuous improvement (CI) methodology and Lean Six Sigma (LSS) techniques used for CI project work. The specific skills learned and developed in this class can be applied to any career or pursuit. This platform is also excellent as a primer for employees in a company to enable everyone to understand the methods their company uses as a foundation to build upon. Students who attend yellow belt training lend support to the process improvement projects as either a project leader or as a team member.
Length: two, full-day in-person sessions
Course Objectives: Participants will learn the nuances of continuous improvement through Lean Six Sigma methodology. They will be able to apply LSS methodology and tools to everyday work. They will be able to apply the systems and techniques in order to manage work projects and initiatives.
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will be able to:
- Explain and apply the fundamental principles of continuous improvement via Lean Six Sigma.
- Apply DMAIC/PDCA/JDI project management methodology to their events, initiatives and everyday work.
- Apply mapping techniques to clarify complex settings and issues.
- Implement continuous improvement projects in order to maximize return on investment.
- Optimize resource allocation with a focus on everyday activities.
- Implement measurement and analysis techniques to understand the root causes of failures, waste and increased cost drivers.
- Work with cross functional teams to drive up stream wastes and pains out of the system in a sustainable manner.
Format: Instructors teach the course in a facilitated breakout format. They will introduce concepts and skills during each session, which will then be developed and applied in a series of individual and team exercises.
Course Benefits:
- Understand the history and philosophy of continuous improvement utilizing LSS methodology and tools.
- Learn the system structure, tools and techniques of LSS project management.
- Connect with “kindred spirit” professionals through classroom activities and coursework.
Explore relevant case study examples.
- One-on-one coaching support for participants before and after the course. Note: Customized coaching and training for work teams is available for an additional charge.
Earn WMU Center for Integrated Supply Management Certification as a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt based on class participation and coursework.
Prerequisites: A fundamental business or management and problem solving working knowledge is recommended.
Course Requirements: Participants will be required to:
- Attend classroom sessions.
- Participate with open, honest discussion.
- Complete individual assignments from class.
- Participate in case studies.
- Pass exam at the end of the session.
Course Materials: The instructors will provide class handouts, along with templates and electronic files.
Required Equipment: Each participant should bring to class a laptop with Excel, Word and PowerPoint installed.
Cost: $1,200
Provided Amenities: The course fee includes classroom materials (e.g., markers, post-it notes, post-it pads); morning and afternoon snacks, when applicable; beverages (e.g., coffee, water, soft drinks); and lunch.
Contact: For questions, email Tom Kelly.