Why CI is a Strategy, Not a Tactic
Four Minnesota companies show why all manufacturers should build lean into their cultures.
About Eric
Eric Blaha is a business growth consultant who works with manufacturers throughout the state to improve productivity, reduce unplanned downtime, and identify opportunities and metrics to help drive business results. He draws his thoughts from experience working with manufacturers large and small, having seen many different manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Europe. Eric brings an open mind and willingness to learn so that he can help manufacturers of any discipline streamline their processes, reduce human error, and decrease overhead and carrying costs while improving productivity.
Prior to joining Enterprise Minnesota, Eric worked in supervisory, quality manager, and plant manager roles at CNH Industrial in Fargo, ND, and Revolv Manufacturing in Brainerd, MN.
A resident of Verndale, MN, Eric enjoys spending time with family, hunting, fishing, and raising crops and beef cattle.
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering – North Dakota State University
Additional resources:
Enterprise Minnesota consulting services
Author Content
Getting Automation Right
The Weekly Report – May 12, 2025. At our next manufacturing workshop, continuous improvement expert Eric Blaha will show companies how to use automation to…
Maximizing Returns
Manufacturers optimize automation with VESSA.
Harvesting Growth
Farm-raised consultant Eric Blaha combines his ‘farm kid’ roots with innovative thinking to bring a unique view to lean consulting.
A Day at the Races
The Weekly Report – June 10, 2024 A competition between seasoned packaging experts and Enterprise Minnesota consultants reveals a path to greater efficiency.
Peering at Improvement
New production-oriented peer councils enable manufacturers to discuss the nitty-gritty issues of the shop floor.
Advancing with Automation
The Weekly Report – May 20, 2024 Most manufacturers know that automation can help them cope with challenges of our persistent worker shortage, but Eric…
Automation is About People
Enterprise Minnesota growth consultants Eric Blaha and Ally Johnston explain why the companies that succeed through automation view employee engagement at its core.
Engaging With Automation
Implemented correctly, automation can ease labor demands and improve operations. Here’s how.
Experience Beyond His Years
Although young, Eric Blaha boasts a wealth of manufacturing experience.