Rama Shankar

Area of Expertise: Operations & Decision Science

Rama Shankar is a seasoned professional with over 35 years of diverse experience in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. She is an expert in Quality and Manufacturing Engineering, specializing in the application of QMS standards to ISO, AS, and Medical Devices, Lean Six Sigma, problem-solving, and mentoring projects.

In addition to her extensive work experience, Rama is a certified professional with multiple credentials, including ASQ Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), ASQ Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB), ASQ Certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt (CMBB), and several trainer certifications for Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Root Cause Analysis.

Rama has a strong presence in academia as an Adjunct Professor at Illinois Institute of Technology and Daley College Chicago, where she teaches courses on Quality Management, Quality Control, Statistics, and Operations Management.

Academically, Rama holds an MS in Engineering Management from Northwestern University, an MS in Materials Management from the Indian Institute of Materials Management, and a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Madras.

She is an accomplished author and speaker, having contributed to books and publications on Lean, Six Sigma, and Quality Management. Rama has received awards and recognition from ASQ, including the Founder's Award, Joe Lisy Award, and Meritorious Service Awards.

Rama has been actively involved in the American Society for Quality (ASQ) Chicago Section in various capacities, including Chair, Training Institute Director, Section Director, and Regional Councilor.

With her passion for teaching and commitment to quality improvement, Rama strives to ignite curiosity and foster a love for learning among her students, making the workplace a better environment.