During my lifetime I’ve probably been through about 500 factories, and each has been unique, with its own particular story.  With those experiences behind me, I am excited to say that the new GM Delta Township Plant definitely stands out in numerous positive ways.  It is not only the fact that it is a state-of-the-art assembly [does this make sense, Heather, or does he mean to say assembly plant?], but also it is what’s happening inside that plant, the fact that the people who are part of it obviously feel so good about the facility itself and about their roles there.

From the moment I entered, I was met by smiling faces welcoming me and wishing me a good day.  Everyone I met along the way appeared to be very excited about their work:  At the factory gates, just inside the fences, and inside the factory areas I saw people feeling good about themselves and their product.  They seem to realize they are part of bigger and better things for the Greater Lansing area.

During my interview with Randy Thayer, general manager of the new plant, and Doug Roademacher [correct spelling?], president of Local 602, each one took equal time to discuss the product, how innovative he felt it to be, and how proud he is that it is being manufactured here in mid-Michigan.  This latest and greatest plant in the GM line is an outstanding addition to our area.  As we finished, we walked to the upper reaches of the management offices, and I found it interesting to note that the office area is comprised of modules bordered by partitions only four-foot high.  They explained the concept behind this is that the employees in those individual offices also work together as a team, especially when it comes to sharing ideas.  Teamwork—right down to the configuration of the offices—encouraging [OK word? Use only gratifying?] and gratifying to see.  Union administrative and GM administrative offices next to one another are a sign of the close cooperation important for the success that all want and expect to experience here,  indeed a fine example being set for this plant’s success in the future.  We are pleased to have them here in our Greater Lansing area, and we know you’ll enjoy reading about them in this month’s issue.

Best wishes for a prosperous month!

Chris Holman

		Chris Holman Publisher