AME Milwaukee 2026 International Conference
PRESENTATIONS

Presentation

Navigating challenges in military manufacturing
A case study on reliability and redesign
OVERVIEW
In 2019, a single $5 capacitor resulted in an estimated $800 million cost to the U.S. military and an 18-month schedule delay. Intended for use in critical upgrades for both the Navy and Air Force, the capacitor failed to meet essential component reliability standards, requiring a comprehensive redesign for both programs.
This session will guide participants through the collaborative efforts of contractors supporting the National Nuclear Security Administration, including Sandia National Laboratories and the Kansas City National Security Campus, as they addressed this challenge. Attendees will gain insight into the strategies used to resolve the issue and the key lessons learned to support the successful advancement of these vital programs.
This session will guide participants through the collaborative efforts of contractors supporting the National Nuclear Security Administration, including Sandia National Laboratories and the Kansas City National Security Campus, as they addressed this challenge. Attendees will gain insight into the strategies used to resolve the issue and the key lessons learned to support the successful advancement of these vital programs.
Key Learning Objectives
1. Applying lessons learned
2. Improving processes
3. Navigating change
2. Improving processes
3. Navigating change
PresenterS

Amanda Cox
Program Manager
SANDIA NATIONAL LABORATORIES
Amanda Cox is the program lead for Sandia National Laboratories’ Electronic Parts Program, where she has been instrumental for the past four years in advancing the organization’s mission. With 18 years of experience at Sandia, Cox has held various roles, including production planner, Lean Black Belt and strategy professional, each contributing to her comprehensive understanding of operational excellence.
Program Manager
SANDIA NATIONAL LABORATORIES
Amanda Cox is the program lead for Sandia National Laboratories’ Electronic Parts Program, where she has been instrumental for the past four years in advancing the organization’s mission. With 18 years of experience at Sandia, Cox has held various roles, including production planner, Lean Black Belt and strategy professional, each contributing to her comprehensive understanding of operational excellence.
With a strong passion for people and continuous improvement, Cox believes that the pursuit of improvement is essential to fostering a culture of care and innovation. Her commitment to driving positive change and her expertise in lean methodologies have positioned her as a leader in optimizing processes and enhancing program performance.
Cox is eager to share her insights and experiences at the conference, engaging with fellow professionals to explore new strategies for achieving excellence.
Cox is eager to share her insights and experiences at the conference, engaging with fellow professionals to explore new strategies for achieving excellence.

TAGS
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Operations improvement
Level: Intermediate
