Special-Lite Welcomes Industry Veteran as New Director of Quality and Continuous Improvement

Manufacturing quality commercial doors is what we are known for here at Special-Lite. That is one reason we are excited to welcome Phil Ward as Director of Quality and Continuous Improvement.

Ward brings over 30 years of experience in manufacturing, continuous improvement, project management, and process development.

He has worked in multiple Director level roles for the past twenty-five years. Those involved overseeing large machining and fabrication operations with Stryker in nearby Portage, MI.

Most recently, as Chief Engineer, he led numerous large-scale facility initiatives on space optimization. Ward drove operational efficiencies and numerous quality improvements through his leadership of various manufacturing initiatives.

“Special-Lite is thrilled to have someone with Phil’s breadth of manufacturing and quality experience,” Steve Benscoter, President and Chief Operating Officer said. “His knowledge and commitment to continuous improvement will help us enhance our quality system further and deliver even better outcomes for our customers.” 

Ward will be responsible for the overall quality system at Special-Lite, including vendor quality management. As a member of the company’s senior leadership team, he will contribute to critical, continuous improvement projects to improve the overall experience of Special-Lite’s valued customers. 

Ward is a Lawrence Institute of Technology graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management. He also holds a Master of Science in Management from Walsh College. 

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