Continuous Improvement Managers

High School

Recommended high school classes include mathematics, computer science, business, psychology, English, speech, science, social studies, and foreign languages.

Postsecondary Education

Continuous improvement managers typically have bachelor’s degrees in business management, engineering, logistics, operations management, quality systems, or business operational excellence. If you plan to work in a specific industry, such as biomedical technology, you should minor or earn a degree in that area (biomedical engineering or biomedical equipment repair). Some employers prefer applicants with master’s degrees.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificates in continuous improvement disciplines, operations logistics, or related areas. For example, Kent State University awards a Lean Practitioner certificate to those who complete study in the following areas: Fundamental Concepts of Lean Kaizen, A3 Thinking and Problem Solving, 5S+/Visual Workplace, Value Stream Mapping, Mistake Proofing, Standardized Work and Continuous Flow, Quick Changeover, and Heijunka (Level Loading). DePaul University offers a Six Sigma Green Belt certificate program that covers topics such as identifying core processes and key customer considerations, measuring current performance, gathering and analyzing data to investigate causes, and improving, controlling, and redesigning processes. Contact schools in your area to learn about available programs.

Other Education or Training

The American Society for Quality offers a variety of in-person and online continuing education classes, including Introduction to Lean Principles, Introduction to Six Sigma, Kaizen, Leading Lean Teams in Healthcare, Introduction to Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement Techniques. The Association for Manufacturing Excellence also offers professional development classes.