WMEP will help TLX launch its lean transformation, which will help it deal with rapid growth
TLX Technologies LLC, a Waukesha-based designer and manufacturer of electrical actuators, solenoids and control valves for the automotive, industrial, commercial goods and off-road equipment markets, has retained the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (WMEP) to perform an enterprise business transformation project.
WMEP’s assistance will help TLX implement the best and most relevant elements of lean manufacturing principles, said Neil Karolek, president of the company.
"We’re growing at a pretty good rate," he said. "And we’ve got quality and inventory systems… but if we do the same stuff we are doing now we will run into chaos as we grow."
TLX had about 30-percent growth in 2008 and anticipates 20- to 30-percent growth this year, Karolek said. The company employs 25 people now and anticipates adding 10 to 15 more workers by the end of 2010.
"Our goal is long-term sustainable growth and WMEP is giving us the tools to grow effectively," Karolek said. "We need to optimize our business operations before growth explodes. We have much higher sales goals through 2012 and are on plans to reach them."
The project will analyze the company’s operations, identify priorities to make it more competitive and create a list of action items that it needs to execute within the next 18 months. WMEP has already helped TLX halve its production line downtime by mapping its manufacturing processes related to scrap.
"We know our business can become even better," Karolek said. "WMEP brings the experience to allow us to become world class."
For more information about WMEP, visit www.wmep.org. For information about TLX, visit www.tlxtech.com.
