Where to train for QA and Process management?

[Nimwambugu]

I work in a factory and i am new into matters of Quality. I have immediately fallen in love with this subject and think this is a good career move. I would like to study so i can one day be responsible for drafting, implemementing Quality maps and processes... the works; plus be able to comprehensively understand, and use all the tools of TQM in any project; from simple process maps to defining KPIs, analysing trends... managerial 'stuff'.

My question is; What classroom discipline should i pursue that has specific and detailed emphasis on Quality/project imlementation.

Thanks

[achorste]

The CQI do Diploma & Certificate courses (I studied the diploma). If you already have a degree you'll only need to do 2 years (part time one night a week). The certificate doesn't go into as much detail but is much shorter, however I can highly recommend the diploma - it covers;

Tools & techniques of quality improvement (SPC, problem solving, Design of Experiments etc)
Quality Management Principles
Project & communication Management
Environmental Management
History of Quality Management & Gurus

Check out their website: www.thecqi.org

There are a lot of other courses out there as well, the open university may be worth a try and private firm may offer short courses.

It may well be worth working in Quality for a bit before doing the longer courses though - I worked in quality for about 3 years before starting the course & found it a lot easier than my course mates who were new to the topic.

[AndyN]

I agree. The CQI is a perfect resource for this subject. Find a local community college (or similar) to see who teaches the courses in the previous post. As a past member, student and instructor of the materials, I can safely vouch for them, I believe - and fellow Cover Paul Simpson will probably tell you even more than we have here!

[Nimwambugu]

Thanks Archoste and Andy. I think i'd also find it easy because i've already done the difficult thing being a novice, of researching the literature on the Net.

[17Angels]

I've been reading the forums on the cove for some time now, but new to posting.

Is there an equivalent to CQI in the US? Is that ASQ? I am already a member of ASQ.

I am specifically interested in training for Quality Management for Medical Device. I am currently finishing implementation of the QMS and responsible for running the QA functions smoothly (one-person operation for a start-up). I am mostly baffled by how to plan my time to cover all of the tasks (doc control, audits, metrology, training, data review, completing the design master record, etc) and setting a reasonable pace for attaining company goals (regulatory certs) and keeping my sanity.

What's your advice?

Thanks in advance.
Melissa

[Coury Ferguson]

Originally Posted by 17Angels

I've been reading the forums on the cove for some time now, but new to posting.

Is there an equivalent to CQI in the US? Is that ASQ? I am already a member of ASQ.

I am specifically interested in training for Quality Management for Medical Device. I am currently finishing implementation of the QMS and responsible for running the QA functions smoothly (one-person operation for a start-up). I am mostly baffled by how to plan my time to cover all of the tasks (doc control, audits, metrology, training, data review, completing the design master record, etc) and setting a reasonable pace for attaining company goals (regulatory certs) and keeping my sanity.

What's your advice?

Thanks in advance.
Melissa

Melissa,

I just checked the training offered at ASQ. There is a lot of training for Medical Devices offered. Check the Training out, at ASQ Website

[Nimwambugu]

I don't know much about ASQ but i would say a well-versed source who is a quality guru in the States once adviced me about joining ASQ, so i would say 17Angels you're looking in the right direction.