AME Milwaukee 2026 International Conference
PRESENTATIONS
Presentation
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SMED as a gateway
Three principles for lasting lean engagement
OVERVIEW
Key Learning Objectives
1. Identify the three cultural pillars necessary to move SMED from a one-time event to a sustainable system.
2. Apply the "Aggregation of Marginal Gains" concept to identify high-impact, low-cost improvements on the shop floor.
3. Transition lean implementation from a "push" (management-led) to a "pull" (operator-led) model using SMED as the entry point.
4. Evaluate metrics that balance technical performance (downtime) with people-centric success (morale and engagement).
5. Implement simple, low-tech solutions that drive immediate results and build momentum for broader lean initiatives.
2. Apply the "Aggregation of Marginal Gains" concept to identify high-impact, low-cost improvements on the shop floor.
3. Transition lean implementation from a "push" (management-led) to a "pull" (operator-led) model using SMED as the entry point.
4. Evaluate metrics that balance technical performance (downtime) with people-centric success (morale and engagement).
5. Implement simple, low-tech solutions that drive immediate results and build momentum for broader lean initiatives.
Presenter
Preston Krautkramer
CI Specialist
Kerry
Preston Krautkramer is a continuous improvement specialist at Kerry with expertise in lean manufacturing and operational excellence. He holds an APICS CPIM certification and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Krautkramer is passionate about driving sustainable improvements through practical, easy-to-implement solutions that strengthen plant culture and performance.
CI Specialist
Kerry
Preston Krautkramer is a continuous improvement specialist at Kerry with expertise in lean manufacturing and operational excellence. He holds an APICS CPIM certification and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Krautkramer is passionate about driving sustainable improvements through practical, easy-to-implement solutions that strengthen plant culture and performance.
He currently leads a major SMED initiative that has significantly reduced changeover downtime and boosted operator engagement by applying the principle of aggregation of marginal gains and prioritizing improvements that make work “easier and better.” Krautkramer's approach emphasizes simplicity and people-focused solutions, delivering measurable results and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. He has previously presented at an AME event for the Southeastern Wisconsin Consortia.
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People-centric leadership
Level: Intermediate
