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Konrady Plastics, a certified women-owned business based in Portage, IN, is a family-operated manufacturer and distributor specializing in plastic components with over 40 years of industry expertise. The company partners with heavy industries and original equipment manufacturers to incorporate machined plastic parts into their operations, optimizing production processes and minimizing downtime caused by equipment repairs.

Situation:

Through discussions with their customers, Konrady Plastics identified the implementation of a Quality Management System (QMS) as their most significant opportunity for improvement. They recognized that achieving ISO 9001 certification would enhance their internal processes and strengthen customer confidence. Following a thorough gap analysis to assess their baseline, Konrady Plastics devised a strategic plan outlining the steps needed to achieve ISO certification. During this process, it became clear that external expertise would be essential to ensure successful completion of the certification, leading them to connect with Purdue MEP.

Solution:  

Purdue MEP delivered ISO 9001 Internal Auditor training through a two-day program, equipping the Konrady team with the knowledge and skills required to audit their quality system per the ISO 9001:2015 standard. Additionally, ISO 9001:2015 QMS Implementation Assistance was provided, with a Purdue MEP team member offering guidance and support throughout all QMS implementation activities and recommendations for writing standards that were not yet in place. The assistance helped match Konrady Plastics’ existing systems with the ISO standards and requirements.

Results:

Having achieved ISO 9001 certification in September 2024, Konrady Plastics has significantly enhanced its ability to meet customer needs with greater sophistication. The certification enabled the hiring of a high-level Quality Manager who has seamlessly integrated quality into production processes, fostering collaboration rather than conflict. The production team has fully embraced ISO and takes pride in the achievement.

Konrady Plastics continues to streamline operations and uncover new efficiencies. They have implemented a robust corrective and preventive action process, ensuring accountability and preventing repeated mistakes.

Impact metrics:

• Offset $16,000 in training and implementation services through grant funding secured by Purdue MEP through the Department of Defense’s Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation
• Purdue MEP trained 4 team members who now have accountability for the ISO process
• Added new role of Quality Manager to their team with future anticipation of adding a quality technician
• With anticipated growth of 9% in CY 2025 and another 9% in the following year, the ISO certification will fundamentally be a foundation for that growth.

“Without Purdue MEP’s assistance, Konrady Plastics would never have pursued ISO certification when we did—it felt too overwhelming and daunting to tackle on our own. While the funding was incredibly helpful, the consultant made all the difference. She was the perfect fit for our team, providing encouragement and guidance whenever we doubted our path forward, and kept us moving in the right direction. She came in with a structure that helped guide the process and ensure success. We are extremely grateful.”

- Leah Konrady, CEO, Konrady Plastics

“Congratulations to the Konrady Plastics team for achieving ISO 9001 certification. The leadership team at Konrady was invested in the process and owned the development and implementation of the quality management system (QMS). I feel confident that the Konrady team will continue to utilize their ISO certification to drive improvements in Konrady’s business processes.”

- Debra Meiring, Consultant, Purdue Manufacturing Extension Partnership

 

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