Tri-State Industries plant tour and consortium kick off

September 24, 2026 9:00 AM
September 24, 2026 11:30 AM
Central time

Overview

Tri-State will display how they have effectively developed a culture of continuous improvement over a span of several years. They will demonstrate how they have implemented robotic welding front including how they have implemented cellular manufacturing. In addition, Tri-State will share how their 5S program functions. Finally, Tri-State will share how they assisted a key customer in improving lead times.

Host Company

Tri-State Industries. Tri-State Industries/Tri-State Automation is a second-generation family owned steel fabrication business who is a leading contract manufacturer to large OEM's in the rail car, construction, mobile trailer industries, and other general contract manufacturing services. Tri-State identified years ago that to remain competitive they needed to utilize automation and lean manufacturing techniques to maintain and improve productivity levels. Based on adopting these principles, the concept of waste elimination has become embedded in their culture. Tri-State has two facilities in Hammond, IN and one in Alexandria Louisiana.

AME Chicago Consortium is a collaborative learning network of local companies that are committed to performance excellence and shared learning. Interested in joining? Get an introduction to the consortium and learn more about the benefits, offerings and more. Contact Bruce Bechtel at bruce@bcbmfgsolutions.com.

Presenter

Tim Keller

Agenda

Thursday, September 24, 2026

Central Time

9:00 a.m.   Welcome & Introductions

9:15 a.m.    Tour

10:15 a.m.   Break

10:30 a.m.  Tri-State Topic Presentation

11:00 a.m.   Consortium Presentation

11:15 a.m.    Q & A/wrap up

PARTICIPANT BENEFITS

  • Building a culture of continuous improvement at a small to medium sized manufacturer

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

  • Anyone interested in joining the AME Chicagoland Consortium

Safety Requirements

No open toed shoes.

Safety glasses will be provided by host.

OTHER REGISTRATION INFORMATION

We strive to host events that are inclusive and accessible to everyone to fully participate and engage. Please email events@ame.org if you have any questions.

If you are not already a member of AME, we invite you to join at this time. Membership benefits include complimentary and discounted event registrations throughout the entire year. To learn more about membership benefits, please visit here.

By participating in this event, you grant AME, or anyone authorized by AME the right to use or publish in print or electronic medium any photograph or video containing your image or likeness for educational, news, or promotional purposes, without compensation.

Cancelation Policy: This event may be canceled by AME for any reason. AME is not responsible for incidental costs incurred by registrants. For paid events, registration fee less a $20 administration fee will be refunded up to one week before the event. Substitutions may be made up to three days prior to the start of the event.

Fees

Complimentary

Location

4923 Columbia Ave. Hammond, IN 46327

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