USI’s Management Tools
This newsletter is #3 in a 10-part series to explain the 10 great management tools that we use to help us be the thin film circuit supplier that you can really depend on.
- Continuous Improvement
- Employee Training & Certification
- On-Time Shipping Infrastructure
- ITAR Controls
- Change Controls & Certification
- Contract & Quality Review
- Statistical Process Controls in Manufacturing
- AS9100 Quality Management System
- Risk Management Processes
- UltraFAST Program
Several years ago, while analyzing data on internal errors and defects, we realized that we needed to improve our employee training systems. By helping our employees develop exceptional skill levels through improved training and certification, we’ve been able to turn employee training into a competitive advantage.
Here is how we do it:
Then Engineering and Manufacturing build a training matrix for each new employee. The matrix is a list of skills that they need to become certified to before they can perform work on their own. We use a 4-step approach when it comes to training and certification:
1. Explain the Job:
The purpose and method of each specific job step is explained so the employee gets a high level understanding of the job details.
2. Present the Job in Detail:
Step 2 is an actual “show and tell” of the job steps by the trainer, with focus on detailing how and why each piece of the job is done.
3. Try Out the Job:
Employees perform the job on their own, and explain each step as they go. Step 3 is repeated until each employee shows that he or she understands critical job content and can perform them well.
4. Perform the Job:
Employees perform the job under the watchful eye of the trainer for 5 separate lots. If and when they complete 5 lots in a row without any quality or workmanship issues, they will become certified. Their skill matrix is updated and their capacity is added to the master capacity plan.

Customer Testimonial
“We have no quality issues with product from UltraSource, the quality is always perfect”
These training methods help us to develop employees that are trained, competent, and able to perform their job functions consistently. The exceptional skill levels that our employees develop through training are critical for helping us build product that meets all customer quality requirements and ships on-time.
About Us
Your Thin Film Source
UltraSource was founded in 1991 with the mission of building high quality thin film circuits and interconnects in key industries, including defense, aerospace, and telecommunications. We consistently invest in our infrastructure, technology, and our people so we can provide our customers with the best service and custom built thin film products available anywhere. Please take a few minutes to visit our website and learn how we can help you on your next thin film project.

To learn more, contact us at: (800) 742-9410