Connecting the Classroom to Industry: Experiential Lean Learning with Dennis Wade and Lisa Eshbach

In this episode of the WLEI podcast, we speak with Dennis Wade from Oakland University and Lisa Eshbach, PhD from Ferris State University. They share their universities' programs that provide hands-on lean learning experiences for students through collaboration with industry partners. 

In our discussion, we explore: 

• The backgrounds and roles of Dennis Wade and Lisa Eshbach in academia and their work connecting students to real-world lean projects. 
• The models used at Ferris State University and Oakland University for experiential learning projects, including course-based projects and paid internships. 
• The impact of these programs on students' development of lean skills and tools, as well as skills like collaboration and problem-solving. 
• Examples of projects undertaken by students, such as a kanban system for an eye clinic supply room and creating a food pickup process for a university food pantry. 

Dennis and Lisa will lead a learning session on connecting industry to academia at the Lean Summit on March 19-20 in Carlsbad, CA.

To contribute to the James P. Womack Scholarship, which funds student internships at Oakland University, email us at info@lean.org. Click here to read case studies from past student projects funded by the scholarship.