Ken Johnson

MANHEIM, Pa. — In today's competitive manufacturing landscape, optimizing equipment is crucial for maintaining efficiency and profitability. Ken Johnson, a seasoned manufacturing process engineer most recently serving as project manager for Keystone Wood Specialties, will offer valuable insights into a strategic approach to machine replacement at Wood Pro Expo Lancaster.

Johnson's extensive experience in root-cause analysis and defect reduction has led him to develop a comprehensive system for prioritizing machine replacements. This system, based on risk calculation and budget considerations, ensures that investments are aligned with business goals.

Key takeaways from Johnson's approach include:

• Risk Assessment: By evaluating the potential impact of machine failures, businesses can prioritize replacements effectively.
• Strategic Planning: A well-defined budget and timeline for equipment upgrades are essential for successful implementation.
• Continuous Improvement: Reducing defects and increasing capacity through process optimization is a key objective.

Johnson's presentation, Machine Replacement Prioritization, will also draw from his upcoming book that delves deeper into the concept of process variation and its impact on quality. He emphasizes the importance of controlling process inputs to achieve lasting quality improvement. By identifying and eliminating waste, businesses can reduce costs, improve lead times, and increase production capacity.

Johnson is scheduled to present at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Warehouse on the Nook. 

View the complete two-day Wood Pro Expo Lancaster schedule.  

About Wood Pro Expo Lancaster  
Wood Pro Expo is a regional event for woodworking businesses that brings together suppliers and experts for a localized presentation of equipment and supply solutions. WPE includes a strong educational program on best practices for shop production and business management. The expo features a wide variety of industrial woodworking equipment and supplies mainly geared to small and medium-sized shops. The 2024 edition of Wood Pro Expo Lancaster takes place Oct. 24-25 at the Spooky Nook Sports/Warehouse Hotel at the Nook in Manheim (Lancaster County), Pa. 

To learn more about Wood Pro Expo Lancaster exhibiting opportunities, including the Running Machine Program, Classic Machine Pavilion, and more, contact Lewis Goldman at [email protected] or 800-969-2212.

Visit woodproexpolancaster.com. 

More Woodworking Network events
Closets Conference & Expo / Wood Pro Expo Florida, June 11-13, 2025, Palm Beach County Convention Center, West Palm Beach, Fla.

Woodworking Machinery & Supply Conference & Expo (WMS), Nov. 12-14, 2025, Toronto Congress Centre, Toronto, Ontario.