Pro QC’s VP/Americas, Michael L. Hetzel, was recently asked to join Awarely at the AON Center in Chicago to discuss the latest trends in logistics and supply and expand on Pro QC’s expertise in providing quality control and engineering services. The interview begins with identifying the largest trend, which Michael discusses as the supply chain architecture changing. He discusses the start of companies moving their supply chains to manufacturers more in proximity to market. Our competitive advantage at Pro QC is that we are able to anticipate and respond to these changes and have personnel appropriately positioned. Michael adds that we “reduce a challenge for our client base by being able to be present wherever in the supply chain structure that it makes sense to help them manage quality and conformance.” When discussing the benefits and value of using a 3rd party quality provider such as Pro QC, Michael focuses on scalability and flexibility. He also adds that “we are also more dispassionate than your own employees.” There’s the benefit of a “fresh look.” In addition, using a 3PQ saves time. By doing this, we reduce the risk of waiting for replacements and the associated cost. “Being engineering based, but also multinational and western owned allows us to understand what the expectations are between countries. The cultural translation is actually a very significant value that we bring.” Michael discusses various industry standards and our ability to assist clients with preparing their factories to pass audits, such as the more popular ISO 9001 to specific evaluations such as TS 16949 and social accountability. He also discusses process audits as a problem-solving tool. “From procurement through shipment, we identify the opportunity points and then work with the facility to solve problems.” “The world is not flat… If it were, then the value we bring would have to change. Since it’s not, that’s exactly where companies in our space bring considerable value to our clients.”
