Goulds Pumps Water Technologies was honored recently by its parent company, ITT Industries.

Goulds Pumps Water Technologies plant in Auburn, N.Y., was honored by its parent company, ITT Industries, the world's largest pump producer, with an international "Ring of Quality" Gold Award in recognition of successful application of "Lean Manufacturing" techniques. "Lean Manufacturing" is a discipline that involves mastering of manufacturing techniques to reduce waste, eliminate process redundancies, and improve productivity.

"Receiving this award is one of the best things that has happened to us," said Doug Bingler, President, Goulds Pumps Water Technologies.

"We are honored to be recognized for the substantial improvement our plant has made in everything from product reliability to improved on-time performance. Lean Manufacturing has helped empower our employees and lift our morale."

Illustrating Lean Manufacturing at work, one Goulds Pumps team at the Auburn facility reduced 'set-up' time on a manufacturing process from several hours to 17 minutes. Another team implemented a procedure that ensures the company receives raw steel it needs the moment supplies are depleted.

ITT Industries, Inc. is a global engineering and manufacturing company. Headquartered in White Plains, N.Y., the company employs approximately 38,000 people around the world.