Released by Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division China Lake Public Affairs Office --
By Desiree Jones

Engineers, machinists and planners assigned to the Weapons Prototype Division received ISO 9001:2000 certification from the International Standards Organization, or ISO. This hard-earned credential will allow NAVAIR Weapons Division to bid on production jobs that were previously competed for strictly among contractors.

Adopting this internationally-recognized quality management system creates an environment of continuous improvement and efficiency.

According to division head Ken Hayes, the certification process began 10 years ago, with the last three years posing the most challenges. Standardizing procedures used inside Michelson Lab’s machine shop required more than teamwork.

“Changing the way people work is never an easy thing for folks to do,” Hayes said. “But the fact that an independent audit verified that we successfully made those changes is a testament to their dedication.”

At a small ceremony held in the machine shop, Weapons Division Commander Admiral Mark Skinner commended the Weapons Prototype Division team and stressed the importance of their achievement.

“As you all know, the contractors we work with are required to have this certification. With our folks in 4.7.5 holding the same credential, we can compete and begin bringing some of our production and prototype work back home. Competition is healthy in any business as long as you hold to the mantra of ISO which is to ‘Do What You Say, And Say What You Do.’ Continuous improvement is not something new, it’s just more necessary.”

The Admiral also praised the efforts of division quality officer Sheila Stange, who did the majority of information gathering and metrics required by the ISO. But Stange quickly shifted the spotlight back to her teammates.

“I’ve gotten a lot of credit for this, but it wasn’t just me. This wouldn’t have happened without the work our teams do. This certification ensures our place as a future builder for the warfighter and we achieved that place only through teamwork.”

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PHOTO CUTLINE: NAVAIR Weapons Division Commander Rear Admiral Mark Skinner, left, expresses appreciation to Weapons Prototype Division head Ken Hayes, right, and division quality officer Sheila Stange, center, for their roles in getting employees certified in accordance with the International Standards Organization. (Contributed photo)