Lean Into AI

Group engaging in a brainstorming session with post-it notes

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how organizations solve problems, make decisions, and deliver value. At the same time, lean and continuous improvement principles remain essential for building adaptable, high-performing systems. Lean Into AI brings together leaders and practitioners from across the operational excellence community to explore where these two powerful forces meet and how they can evolve together.

Future of People at Work Initiatives are volunteer-led work groups addressing specific challenges in the continuous improvement community. Each initiative brings together diverse perspectives from across the community to develop practical solutions and implement real changes across organizations.​​ The Ohio State University Center for Operational Excellence is proud to serve as the sponsoring organization for Lean Into AI. 

The cornerstone of the Lean Into AI work group is a six-part collaborative webinar series featuring conversations between AI experts and Lean practitioners. Each session pairs thought leaders from both fields to explore emerging technologies and real-world case studies. Guided by a skilled facilitator, the series bridges perspectives, translates complex concepts into actionable ideas, and helps lean professionals understand how to use AI tools responsibly and effectively in their improvement work.

Past Events

August 20, 2025 | Part One: Optimization Before Automation 

To kick off the Lean Into AI series, Purdue Professor Ali Shakouri and Toyota Production System Support Center President Jamie Bonini presented a case study on challenges and opportunities when applying the latest advances in artificial intelligence in a manufacturing setting. They shared insights on the importance of eliminating waste and streamlining processes before applying AI technologies and automation. 
 

October 22, 2025 | Part Two: Moving from AI Skeptic to Strategist

Encouraging Leaders CEO Marc D. Braun and LEI Senior Director Tyson Heaton joined Lean Into AI series facilitator Steve Pereira for a conversation on the AI implementation journey. They offered practical ideas for leaders looking to guide their teams through AI adoption with greater clarity and confidence. 
 
View recordings of past events
 

Upcoming Events

  • February 11, 2026 | Part Three - Topic and registration coming soon!
  • May 20, 2026 | Part Four - Topic and registration coming soon! 

Have questions? Want to get involved?

Kelly Reo
Executive Director & Lean Into AI Initiative Lead
Center for Operational Excellence