Spotlight: Green Belt student puts Lean Six Sigma into action

Meet Antonio Fuller—an inspiring example of how adopting a Lean Six Sigma mindset can transform professional and personal lives. Born in Atlanta, GA, and raised in Honolulu, HI, Fuller has navigated diverse environments, bringing unique perspectives to his current role as the Receiving and Facilities Manager at Currey and Company in Atlanta.

A driven leader with a passion for efficiency, Fuller turned to Lean Six Sigma to transform his approach to organization and problem-solving. His journey with Lean Six Sigma training from Emory Continuing Education has helped him cultivate new tools for excellence—tools that he now leverages daily in his work and life.

Harnessing Lean Six Sigma for professional excellence

The decision to enroll in the program was a strategic move for Fuller, who was eager to enhance his organizational abilities and business acumen. Emory’s curriculum, known for its real-world applications, provided the perfect platform for his ambitions. "The Emory program had the most to offer, which I found to be the best value for the best quality," Fuller notes.

Currey and Company impact: A lean transformation

In his role at Currey and Company, Fuller has already implemented significant changes. One of his first projects involved optimizing the facility's external areas by eliminating unnecessary materials, thereby improving operational efficiency. "The principles learned in the program made decisions about what to keep and what to eliminate much easier," he explains, highlighting the tangible benefits of his training.

"With the completion of the program, I hope to implement a higher standard of quality work that will transition in some way providing a value to this company and its customers," Fuller reflects.

By applying Lean Six Sigma principles, Fuller was able to create a more efficient work environment, one that aligned with the company’s broader goals.

Real-world application: Leading change

“The most valuable takeaway is that the skills learned in this program can be applied to every aspect of your daily life,” he observes. From managing time more effectively to reducing waste in household tasks, Fuller has woven Lean Six Sigma into the fabric of his personal life, making it a philosophy for better living.

The program's impact on Fuller extends to his leadership skills and team dynamics. He learned to conduct effective brainstorming sessions, involving management only when necessary, which has fostered a collaborative environment.

Enhancing team dynamics

One of the key lessons Fuller learned is the importance of effective brainstorming sessions. He now understands the value of keeping initial problem-solving discussions within the team without involving higher management too early. "I’ve now learned to only bring them in when an issue is resolved to a point that it’s appropriate for them to be there,” he says. This approach has fostered a more open and collaborative team environment.

Leading with confidence and empowering his team

Lean Six Sigma has done more than enhance Fuller’s technical skills—it has boosted his confidence as a leader.

With a solid framework for tackling challenges, Fuller is now able to approach complex situations with clarity and precision. “I have the basic tools to walk into any situation and always know where step one is,” he states.

This confidence is crucial in his role as a manager, where clear communication and decisive action are essential for success. Fuller’s ability to guide his team through problem-solving processes has been a game-changer, making him a more effective and empowering leader.

Broadening Horizons and Future Goals

Fuller is not stopping here. He plans to pursue further training, including a Lean Continuous Improvement Certificate and eventually tackling the Black Belt level of training. "I’m looking forward to seeing more of these Lean tools in action," he says.

In the end, Fuller’s success is not just about mastering Lean Six Sigma tools—it's about mastering the art of continuous improvement. And that is a lesson with no limits. His story is not just about professional growth but also about personal development and the broader impact of Lean Six Sigma principles on daily life.

For more information about the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt program, as well as the other Lean Six Sigma programs offered through Emory, visit the Lean Six Sigma online certificates overview page.