Advancing Quality Aligned with Future Visions of Space

Drive for Excellence, Northrop Grumman's Approach to Zero Defect Planning

Neil Golke, Quality Engineering Sr. Manager, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company

Julia Price, Supplier Quality Manager, Navigation & Maritime Systems Division, Northrop Grumman Mission Systems Sector

Narrative/Description

• A discussion on the investments that LM Space is making in advancing quality aligned with our future vision of Space (including some eye-watering videos of things to come), external factors that are driving the need for change, speed, and efficiency, and how ASQ can play a role in continuing to help us develop the skills that future Quality Professionals will continue to need in an ever-changing environment with ever-increasing expectations.

• A discussion on how Northrop Grumman partners with suppliers to reduce defects that they buy, make and ship. The discussion will include how Northrop Grumman focuses on process control and continuous improvement with the suppliers, utilizes cross functional supplier management, and develops engagement strategies to drive to zero defects.

Speaker Background

• Neil Golke is the Senior Manager of Quality Engineering & Source Acceptance for Supply Chain Quality (SCQ) responsible for supplier performance and risk management. In this role, he is leading a large and diverse team to drive down supplier defects, ensure robust requirements, and prevent escapements. Previously as SCQ Supplier Improvement & Analytics Manager, Neil focused on expanding and maturing the Space Systems Company (SSC) Supplier Improvement Plan along with leading the development of effective supplier performance metrics and supplier corrective action processes.
• Before joining the SCQ Team, Neil was an Associate Manager in the Supply Chain Advanced Strategy Organization where he developed the SSC vision for engagement and performance management of key suppliers. Additionally, he led efforts to standardize and streamline enterprise solutions and create competition to drive affordability throughout the supply chain.
• Neil joined Lockheed Martin in 2006 with the Operations Leadership Development Program (OLDP) where he spent time at both Space and Lockheed Martin Corporate Headquarters in various technical and business roles. Since graduating from OLDP, he has held positions of increasing responsibility in Quality, Lean Six Sigma, Capital Management, and Supply Chain Management.
• Neil graduated with honors from the University of Washington with Bachelor of Science degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering and from Drexel University with a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management.
• Neil and his wife live in San Jose, CA where they enjoy cooking, home renovation, and exploring the coastline with their French Bulldog, Benny.

• Julia Price is the Supplier Quality Manager for Navigation & Maritime Systems Division within Northrop Grumman's Mission Systems Sector. In this role, she is leading supplier quality strategy and execution for critical programs in campuses across the U.S.
• Julia joined Northrop Grumman in 2012 through the Professional Development Program. She has held multiple roles at NGC in the Global Supply Chain and Supplier Quality organizations.
• She has an undergraduate degree in Supply Chain Management and an MBA from the University of Maryland.
• Julia lives in Severna Park, MD with her husband and enjoys paddle boarding, gardening and grilling out with family and friends.