The University of Michigan Lean Six Sigma certification program equips technical professionals with the tools to improve processes and design high-quality products using advanced statistical methods. Delivered through flexible online learning, this program stands out for the dedication of lead instructor Dr. Pat Hammett, who actively supports learners through weekly office hours, prompt feedback, and hands-on guidance to ensure their success.
Brady Valentine, Supplier Quality Engineering Manager at NSK Steering Systems America, enrolled in the program to earn his Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Through that course, he was able to build on his Six Sigma foundational knowledge and sharpen his ability to lead data-driven quality initiatives.
From there, he continued learning, enrolling in additional Six Sigma courses from the University of Michigan. He shares his experience participating in the online certification courses.
Brady: My primary responsibility is sourcing new parts from our approved suppliers and ensuring they are ready to support the launch of new products or components. Once we receive the parts, we assemble the components into finished goods and ship them to our customers.
NSK operates plants in Dyersburg, Tennessee, and Bennington, Vermont. I work at the Dyersburg facility. We have a supply base that stretches across the globe.
Brady: I started my journey with the Six Sigma Green Belt for Manufacturing at a previous company. When I came to NSK, my supervisor encouraged me to finish my Six Sigma training. I started researching different institutions to earn my Black Belt. I chose the program at the University of Michigan because of its flexibility.
The online format fit into my schedule, and I could learn at my own pace. The content and course topics looked interesting and relevant to my job. Dr. Hammett, the lead instructor, had strong credentials. NSK was on board with this program. I earned my Black Belt certification in Manufacturing in 2020.
I received great results from the program, so I continued with my training. I completed my Design for Six Sigma Green Belt certification in 2024 and completed the Design for Six Sigma Black Belt in the beginning of 2025.
Brady: Being able to create a prediction equation and control the necessary factors to get optimal outcomes is incredibly valuable. The lectures and materials were packed with useful information. Every chapter has something you can apply to day-to-day manufacturing work.
All of the advanced skills—response surface methodology, central composite design, Design of Experiments (DOE), multiple response optimization—are difficult to come by and very marketable. You can solve complex problems and control what you need to get the right outputs for your customer.
Brady: I used the skills to solve complex quality issues, analyze warranty data, and complete DOE for customer problems. I use the tools daily, whether it’s tolerance analysis or problem-solving. My colleagues come to me with data sets. I became the contact person to stratify and organize the data. The tools I learned in the course helped my organization use data better. This allowed us to support our suppliers more effectively.
Brady: Don’t be afraid—take the plunge. The self-paced learning format made it easy to work through the material. You pick up usable things along the way and build on them step by step.
Brady: Absolutely! This is a great course with excellent material. The instructors are there to support you and make sure you succeed.
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