Cowlitz Economic Development Council - Facilitating Growth Through Leadership & Action

Managing today's manufacturing operation is challenging. There are constant pressures to cut costs, improve quality, meet environmental and international standards, and get to market faster with new and improved products.

Given these realities, it's no wonder that more manufacturers are taking advantage of a national network of manufacturing "coaches" who help level the playing field for America's small and medium-sized manufacturers. In Washington, it is called Washington Manufacturing Services (WMS).

WMS Clients Include Manufacturers who want:

Assistance locating needed resources
expert, impartial advice or alternatives
help solving business problem
to reverse negative business trends
to implement new technologies/ processes

What is WMS?
WMS is an independent, not-for-profit organization that offers products and services that meet the needs of local manufacturers. WMS is staffed by manufacturing specialists who have years of practical experience providing technical and business assistance.

Assessment is The First Step
Firms begin their WMS relationship through an assessment of the company's operations. Our manufacturing experts will review the manufacturing process, plant layout, inventory, material flow and procedures. They then prepare an evaluation of the firm and its operations. These findings are reviewed with the company's management and the results turned into a simple solution, or detailed action plan.

Partnerships to Benefit Firms
Sometimes, the technical guidance needed by a manufacturer is best found beyond WMS and that is when the value of WMS is most apparent. Through local and national networks, WMS can identify resources that can help improve a
company's performance.

WMS Seminars & Training
To help manufacturers improve their knowledge, WMS provides a variety of training programs on a range of topics, such as ISO 9000, Lean, Industrial Marketing, Six Sigma, waste reduction, hiring employees, or profiling
new technologies.

Contacting WMS
For additional information call WMS at 425-438-1146 or visit their web site at www.wamfg.org