Mason, OH - Rhinestahl CTS, GE Aviation’s OEM authorized tooling provider, hosted its first annual supplier symposium earlier this month at Belterra Resort and Casino in Florence, Indiana. The event was attended by more than 60 of Rhinestahl’s suppliers from all over the world.
The 2-day symposium focused on communications to Rhinestahl’s supply base regarding its recent acquisition of GE’s Customer Tooling Solutions business. “Our main message was to convey a sense of partnership with the supply base”, said Dieter Moeller, the company’s CEO. “As both a manufacturer and supplier , we realize the importance of frequent and open communications with all team members, inside and outside the CTS organization. These suppliers are integral to our success and we really wanted them to know that.”
Rhinestahl went above and beyond the standard supplier symposium by providing a higher level of training in separate breakout sessions. The training covered topics such as metallurgical analysis of welding processes, welding certifications, specification interpretation, inspection techniques and packaging requirements. “As a supplier, we have a unique perspective on the training that is needed by our suppliers – that allowed us to deliver truly high-value technical training to participants – the feedback was extremely positive” said Tom Johnston, Rhinestahl CTS’ operations manager.
The symposium began with a hospitality suite hosted by Rhinestahl’s management team. “This was a great opportunity to meet everyone informally and discuss any concerns one-on-one”, said Gary Bross, the CTS sourcing leader.
Rhinestahl CTS also hosted a formal dinner with a live band. Guest speaker, Lt. Col. Richard Klinker, USMC Ret. a former Marine One presidential pilot and tactical squadron commander, spoke about his experiences flying GE engines and the importance of “getting it right.”
“Planning for next year’s symposium has already begun. We asked participants for their initial input on both venue and subject matter. And, our plan is to keep the dialogue going on a continual basis in true partnership style. Our success, and that of our suppliers, relies on it”, said Johnston.
Rhinestahl Corporation is a privately held company headquartered in Blue Ash, Ohio, a suburb of Cincinnati with sales offices throughout the United States. Founded more than 42 years ago as a precision machining and manufacturing company, it has grown to be one of the world’s leading providers of gas turbine engine and airframe tools.
