Original Date: 08/07/1995
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

Lockheed Martin Tactical Aircraft Systems (LMTAS) is working to maintain productivity and improve the quality of its work environment as it accepts the challenge to create a lean manufacturing environment. While it improved schedules and cost, LMTAS management realized that it must listen to the needs of the factory workers and encourage communication among all tiers of personnel.

The company is improving personnel relationships by completing 2,135 employee/department projects. For example, it has upgraded break areas and restrooms, and machine operators have been asked to provide input toward modification of tooling to accommodate their special needs. The company has purchased ergonomic equipment to ease factory floor discomfort.

Increased communications and concern for the employees have reduced grievances by 62%, reduced worker compensation costs by 20%, reduced lost workdays by 44%, and reduced job classifications by 67%. Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) are working to bring concerns to management attention. Daily meetings have been held in some factory areas for the last three to four years to discuss safety, concerns, schedules, and tooling. LMTAS upper level management provides an open-door policy with production personnel by participating in breakfast and lunch meetings to discuss issues. Management has also initiated an issue-and-concern board to address any employee questions.

During the height of the rightsizing, LMTAS provided a transition center to help employees in preparing resumes, searching for jobs, and offering training to employees pursuing a career change.

For more information see the Point of Contact for this survey.