Team

Contact

Phone: 815-441-7746
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: jallspaugh@imec.org

Lending a Hand

My role as a Regional Manager affords me the opportunity to listen, observe and learn from the business leaders in my area.  Each industry and organization has its unique challenges and cultures.  However, they all share the need for successful execution of basic fundamentals to grow and prosper.

Listen, observe, and learn.  Then offer ideas, possible solutions and a plan for execution.  There is limited value in simply pointing out what needs to be fixed in an organization.  The real value is in a partner that can identify the right issue, and then help to implement the solution.  This brings immediate results and lasting value for the business, and helps to cultivate a healthy business relationship.

At IMEC, I am able to demonstrate my expertise in areas like financial analysis, process improvement, strategic planning, and business continuity planning to help organizations in Northwest Illinois build sustainable competitiveness. I enjoy earning a spot at the table as a solution provider that can design and implement practical solutions that get results…quickly.

My Background

I have served for more than 30 years in operations and leadership roles, across a range of industries including healthcare, financial services, and agriculture with both profit and not-for-profit organizations.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Speech Communication at Illinois State, then an MBA at St. Ambrose University midway in my career.  My graduate work flipped the entrepreneurial switch on for me.  I brought that to all of my roles in operations management and organization leadership in COO and CEO roles.  Eventually it led me to start my own consulting firm in order to help small and medium sized business leaders.

Contact Information:

Phone: 773-851-5303
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: jazara@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

My passion for helping manufacturers and more importantly, people, runs deep. In my most recent role with a healthcare manufacturer, I was privileged to witness the meaningful impact we made on people’s lives. As a team member of IMEC, I am able to continue to pursue my passion by assisting Illinois companies to retain jobs, and create new jobs and opportunities for the manufacturing workforce.

With over 25 years of manufacturing experience working in a variety of roles on both the production floor and in the front office as a director of operations, I bring a broad perspective to any situation in order to gain the best results.

My Background:

I began my manufacturing career working my way through college, and quickly realized that manufacturing was a field in which I belonged. I worked my way through the ranks, beginning as a technician and was steadily promoted throughout my career from supervisor to supply chain project manager and eventually to director of operations.

My expertise is within Lean manufacturing, project management, facilities layout, new product development, supply chain management and top-line improvements. Having a broad range of manufacturing experience, I pride myself on bringing the right solutions and strategies to solve the most pertinent and critical challenges.

Contact Information:

Phone: 847-417-5747
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: mbasa@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

I began my manufacturing career just blocks from where I grew up. To say I have a vested interest in the success of manufacturing in Illinois is an understatement. I love the idea of helping more than just one company and really making Illinois manufacturing stronger, better and more sustainable.

With more than 12 years of manufacturing experience, I am able to bring my industry know-how to progress IMEC’s mission. I have worked with numerous manufactures identifying their various difficulties. I pride myself on bringing in the right solutions delivered by our own Technical Specialists as well as partners to help these businesses improve their overall performance.

My Background:

I was born and raised in the Chicagoland area, graduated from the University of Illinois at Champaign Urbana with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and then earned a Masters of Engineering Management from the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth. I have more than 12 years of hands on experience in Distribution Management, Production Control, Materials Management and Sales. I led teams to implement lean scheduling and flow techniques, evaluated and implemented MRP, coordinated 5S activities, efficiently scheduled and tracked international freight and fostered innovative culture.

I have experience with Lean Manufacturing, ERP and MRP, Inventory Control, EDI, Project Management, Training and Innovation.

Contact:

Phone: 815-570-1768
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: jhancock@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

Growing up on a small farm in northwest Illinois, I’ve carried a hands-on approach throughout my 30 year career. I spent the early part of my career working for large OEMs and their suppliers, before venturing into the world of entrepreneurship for over 15 years. I later returned to the workforce as director of technical sales for a supplier to large engine manufacturers in the agricultural, power generation, oil & gas, marine, automotive and on-highway market. Throughout my career and my time as an entrepreneur, I developed a strong understanding of the expectations of large OEMs to their suppliers and the challenges they face. The challenges that come with meeting these requirements range from cost break down analysis to lean, 5S and Six Sigma, to delivering a quality product with tight cost restraints.

By developing strong relationships with customers and delivering results-oriented solutions, I have been able to enrich my clients’ bottom lines. At IMEC, it is my mission to provide the manufacturers in Northern Illinois with the ability to meet their challenges while remaining profitable.  At the same time, developing a highly skilled workforce that fosters a team atmosphere, leading to greater job satisfaction and higher retention rates, subsequently building competitive futures in the communities

My Background:

After graduating from Northern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Arts Engineering, I began my career on the installation crew of large commercial heatset offset printing presses. From there, my 30 year career lead me through engineering, project management, sales and sales management to a business owner for over 15 years where I bought, sold and remanufactured large newspaper printing presses.

Contact Information:

Phone: 815-997-6789
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: dharms@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

My passion has always been to help people. I’ve made it my goal to provide the best possible information to help my clients make the best possible decisions to build and sustain competitive and profitable businesses. In my time in the industry I have learned the key component is relationship building; it’s not about companies doing business with other companies, but rather people doing business with people. In spite of our modern technologies, it is the ability of two people to come together to identify the need and bring about the resources to implement solutions.

My job is all about providing program support and guidance to clients for their functional and transformational improvements. By encouraging accountability and a focus on making positive changes, I help my clients recognize when they’ve excelled in their business endeavors and achieved an ideal return on investment. It’s a value driven process supported by a growing relationship between people.

My Background:

I’ve spent my career engaged in the industrial OEM & MRO markets engaging customers through direct and distribution sales channels. I’ve worked in industries ranging from high volume lighting, electronics, industrial controls, motor, generator and transformers to lower volume heavy equipment, marine, power generation, production line MRO wear parts and transportation. My experience covers the business development and marketing side of the business along with an operational focus on manufacturing, engineering and production control. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Illinois University.

Contact Information:

Southern Illinois University
1740 Innovation Drive, Suite 136
Carbondale, IL 62903

Phone: 618-304-2898
Email: rlangdon@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

With over 12 years of experience in manufacturing and Continuous Improvement implementation, my expertise lies in helping organizations become more efficient and more profitable. I begin the process by assessing the big picture and identifying gaps in both performance and practice. I work closely through all levels of the organization to understand and identify the gaps, develop the right tools and plans to reduce and/or eliminate the gaps, and establish the necessary mind set to sustain the improvements.

I enjoy seeing an organization implement this approach because it benefits the organization as a whole; employees, stakeholders, customers and suppliers. Seeing the manufacturer gain results based on the efforts we all set forth is an extremely rewarding process.

My Background:

I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering Technology from Western Illinois University and an M.B.A. from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. My education has given me a great base for my career as I have held positions in manufacturing that range from a Lean Manufacturing Coordinator to Continuous Improvement Manager.

Contact

Phone: 309-846-1593
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: mlyle@imec.org

Lending a Hand

My career began as technician at an OEM dealership in Kansas City. Repairing every aspect of a vehicle lead to the desire to learn everything automotive. That passion would carry me through college and into the world of OEM manufacturing, where I had the opportunity work with three large OEM’s, and most recently, a world class supplier of hydraulic hoses and tubing assemblies.   

Throughout my career, I have developed a strong background in leading shop floor improvements and problem–solving teams, working hands-on with process engineering to implement corrective actions, facilitating major kaizens, and driving lean activities. 

My success has always been tied to the ability to listen, observe, and help teams resolve problems. As my career evolved, I’ve learned that continuous improvement and lean principles are truly the foundation for excellence.   

At IMEC, I am excited to serve as an extension of clients’ teams and help them on their journey to excellence and sustainable, longer term success.  

My Background

I bring over 30 years of expertise in leadership and practical hands on application with manufacturing methods to the IMEC team. My background includes OEM Automotive and Heavy Equipment manufacturing as well operational leadership in the supply chain. Immediately prior to joining IMEC, I was General Manager and Global Director of Quality and Environmental, Health, and Safety for an award winning, hose and tubing assembling company.  

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Technology from Pittsburg State University in Kansas and a certificate from the University of Wisconsin School of Engineering in Lean Operations Management. I am an ASQ CQIA, a certified ISO 9001:2015 IATF 16949 Lead Auditor and a Green Belt in Lean, DMAIC and DMEDI Six Sigma.

Contact

Phone: 815-814-5522
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: dmusgrave@imec.org

Lending a Hand

I bring over 25 years of expertise in leadership, plant management, project management, supply chain management, and new product development to the IMEC team. Having worked in – and lead – a variety of organizations on 6 continents, I have been fortunate to learn about different cultures and gain different perspectives on approaching and solving problems.

This global perspective is helpful in working with small and mid-sized manufacturers in parts of northern Illinois. At IMEC, I have the exciting opportunity to help these manufacturers with strategic improvements so they can become more competitive on a local and global level.

My Background

My career in Operations and Supply Chain Management started in the United States Navy. For the past 25 years, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of operations and leadership roles across a range of industries including consumer electronics, technology, CPG, and industrial organizations.  Prior to joining IMEC, I served as the Director of Global Operations at a large manufacturer.

I received a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management from Southern University – Carbondale, a Master of Science in Telecommunications from DePaul University, and an Executive MBA from the University of Illinois – Urbana/Champaign. I also earned a Project Management Professional (PMP) Certificate from the Project Management Institute.

Contact Information:

Phone: 630-842-6836
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: mmoran@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

I am an insightful business leader with the unique ability to translate big picture vision into detailed action plans; efficiently rectify issues; and provide proactive solutions. I can help Illinois manufacturers become stronger not only on their balance sheet but also in the community as a job creator.

With my diverse background and as a Baldrige Examiner, I help manufacturers recognize operational components that are in need of enhancement, expeditiously evaluate all plausible options and implement results-oriented solutions. Together we can design custom business strategies that mature company systems; develop creative workforce solutions and continually foster company growth. I also customize creative solutions for sales, marketing, strategic planning, and hiring the Autistic workforce.

My Background:

I first began my career in healthcare which emphasized the importance of partnering with a team to strategically create success. Each team member contributed to the overall results. The importance of using tools like continuous improvement and employee relations to improve organizational and personal growth was undeniable. As my career matured, I found myself using these same principals in the manufacturing sector. Combining my experience in healthcare and manufacturing, and using components of the Baldrige framework as a guide, my passion for strategic change has made me successful in assisting organizations to both identify and reach their goals.

My passion for strategic change began when I was able to experience the positive results produced when all levels – from the leadership team to the shop floor – were striving for a clearly identified, common goal. When all employees trust the process, the opportunity for success is limitless. It is inspiring! My greatest satisfaction comes when everyone is empowered to create the solution. It doesn’t always come easy, but when it does happen, it’s extremely rewarding and productive.

Contact Information:

Phone: 217-572-1551
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: rnewbold@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

I understand that change is difficult. It’s a challenge for people at all levels of the organization to understand, to implement and to embrace. Change can’t be made without trust and that’s exactly why I work to build relationships with people. Clients, community leaders, and partners – first and foremost is building trust: then we get to the real issues.

I want manufacturers to be able to call me with questions about how they can improve – knowing I will bring the right solutions because we’ve built that relationship.

My goal is to bring efficient solutions to help companies become more productive and globally competitive. And, for them to know, we can do this together.

My Background:

I bring a different background and nuance to the manufacturing industry. I have experience in legislation, consulting, project management and education. In my previous role as a private consultant, I delivered leadership development, organizational change, personal coaching, strategic planning and project management training to government and small businesses.

Most recently, I helped identify and implement an improved Quality Management System for a Springfield- based manufacturer of medical devices, utilizing my experience working in operations and sales and opportunity planning.

My organizational skills include business operations, HR, project management, sales projections, budgets, marketing, customer satisfaction, lead generation / follow-up, accounting, and community outreach.

I earned a Bachelors Degree in Legal Studies from the University of Illinois at Springfield.

Contact Information:

Phone: 217-779-8227
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: ssandercock@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

My journey started as a stockroom clerk at a corporation in Quincy, Illinois while I was attending college.  I was fortunate to be surrounded by individuals who cared more about their fellow employees and their success, than they did about themselves.  This is also where I leaned the value of building relationships with customers and suppliers. I have a strong understanding and appreciation for team work and prioritizing actions that will drive value for customers. As a result, I’ve spent more than 20 years of my career increasing sales through dealer, distributor, OEM and client relationships. At IMEC, I help businesses focus on areas that provide value internally and also for their customers, resulting in bottom line and top line growth.  I enjoy helping companies implement innovative ideas and continuous improvement techniques in their business processes.

My Background:

My career spans more than thirty years across a variety of industries including high technology, industrial products and service-based business. Most of my time has been in customer-facing positions and executive leadership roles for various organizations. I have also co-founded a company and written several business plans that resulted in securing private funding. My expertise includes product development, client relationship building, brand awareness, market expansion, and continuous improvement– purchasing, engineering and manufacturing to drive efficiencies. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and a Master of Business Administration from Quincy University.

Contact Information:

Phone: 309-677-4628
Fax: 309-677-3289
Email: mwaight@imec.org

Lending a Hand:

My past exposure to many types of manufacturing processes, as well as the diversity of positions I have held, allows me to help manufacturers, especially at a strategic level. I have had responsibility for product design, manufacturing engineering, safety and quality. The time I spent leading a quality organization really helped me develop an understanding of how processes efficiently work together, from customer order through manufacturing and shipment of the product.

My approach to helping a manufacturer is simple – ask questions in a manner that helps me truly understand what the issue is, why they’re experiencing it, how they’re being impacted by it, and what desired outcome they would like to achieve.

One of the best projects I worked on involved consolidating three locations from across the country to a single site in Illinois. It included movement of all manufacturing equipment, as well as office furniture and over $5M in inventory. Using a time-phased implementation schedule, the majority of the move occurred during a 2-3 week period, and was completed on schedule and more than $10,000 below budget.

My Background:

Working in the wire harness manufacturing industry for more than 13 years, I have had broad exposure to CNC Machining, brazing, plating, heat treatment, plastic injection molding, and assembly.

My experience also covers strategic planning, ownership transition planning, ERP system selection, financial analysis & assessments, growth planning, facility planning & relocation, waste management, and employee health and safety issues.

I earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology from Western Illinois University and a Masters in Business Administration from Bradley University.