Use Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEP) to drive sustainability
If you have a small or mid-sized company in the United States (or Puerto Rico), and are in the manufacturing industry, there is a Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) available to help you. MEP Centers are a diverse network of state, university-based, and non-profit organizations, offering products and services that help manufacturers increase profits, create jobs and establish a foundation for long-term business growth and productivity.
What I really like about the MEP program is how they have embraced Lean, Six Sigma and Sustainability as a key service they provide to companies. I have worked closely with a few programs, and I have found them to be very knowledgeable with strong hands-on expertise in process improvement.
In fact, I earned my SME Green Manufacturing Specialist certificate after taking training from the Indiana (Purdue) MEP, and it has given me a lot of confidence to drive sustainability in the companies I’ve worked with. I also collaborated on a Lean and Green training with the Iowa MEP.
Most of the MEPs have specific pages dedicated to their programs. Most are using E3, which stands for Economy, Energy and Environment. It is a program setup by the EPA to help companies and communities drive towards a green economy.
Other MEPs have programs called “Lean and Green,” or “Sustainability,” or “Energy Efficiency,” while others provide services such as energy audits, ISO 14001 mentoring or sustainability assessments.
To make it easier to find your closest MEP and to see what specific program they offer, check out the list below of MEPs by state. If you find some information outdated, please contact us.
