Dedicated to Improvement
Bob Emiliani is a well known author, educator, and trainer in the fields of leadership development, management, and continuous improvement. With a career spanning over three decades, Emiliani has made significant contributions to the understanding and dissemination of Lean principles and practices, while also challenging conventional management practices.
Early Life and Education
Born in South Florida, Bob Emiliani developed a strong interest in engineering and technology. He pursued this passion by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Miami. He then earned a Master of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Rhode Island and a Ph.D. in Engineering from Brown University.
Career and Accomplishments
Emiliani began his professional career as a materials engineer. He subsequently became an operations and supply chain manager at Pratt & Whitney, where he gained firsthand experience in Lean management principles. After over 15 years in the industry, he transitioned to academia, joining Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute followed by Central Connecticut State University as a professor in 1999. He attained the rank of full professor and retired in 2022 as Professor Emeritus. As an educator, Emiliani played a pivotal role in the development of the first accredited Master's program in Lean management.
Emiliani's extensive research and work in Lean management led him to write more than two dozen influential books and articles. Some of his notable works include Better Thinking, Better Results; Practical Lean Leadership; Kaizen Forever, Speed Leadership; and The Triumph of Classical Management Over Lean Management. His writings have helped bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application of Lean principles, offering insights for practitioners and scholars alike.
Bob Emiliani has also been a sought-after speaker and trainer, offering his expertise to organizations seeking to practice Lean management and improve their business. Throughout his career, he has consistently advocated for the importance of “respect for people” and the need to retire traditional approaches to leadership and management.
Legacy and Impact
Bob Emiliani's impact on the field of Lean management and continuous improvement is undeniable. His dedication to research, education, and practical application has broadened the understanding of Lean principles and helped organizations worldwide improve their operations and culture. By emphasizing the importance of “respect for people” in the leadership and management of organizations, Emiliani has contributed to the evolution of Lean management and inspired countless professionals to embrace continuous improvement in their professional lives.