With over 40 years of experience spanning five decades, Curtis Walker is a distinguished Lean Sensei, Change Agent and Six Sigma Master Black Belt specializing in business strategy optimization, operational excellence, and cultural transformation. As a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies and high-growth organizations, Curtis has played a pivotal role in helping businesses unlock efficiencies worth billions of dollars, driving sustainable growth, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

A Transformational Journey Rooted in Lean Excellence

Curtis’s career took a pivotal turn when he joined a Japanese clutch manufacturing company in the U.S., a move that would define his professional trajectory. Recognizing his exceptional drive and willingness to learn, his supervisor nominated him for the Toyota Leadership Training Program—an honor that sent him on an immersive journey into the heart of Lean Manufacturing. Under the direct mentorship of Taiichi Ohno—the father of the Toyota Production System (TPS)—Curtis traveled extensively to Toyota’s world-renowned plants in Takaoka, Motomachi, and Tsutsumi, Japan. Over the course of three years, he mastered the principles of Lean, Kaizen, and Just-in-Time manufacturing, earning the prestigious title of Lean Sensei. More than just mastering the tools and methodologies, he gained a deep understanding of the cultural essence behind Lean, an invaluable asset that would shape the rest of his career.

From Theory to Impact – Transforming U.S. Manufacturing

Bringing his expertise back to the U.S., Curtis set out to revolutionize the American manufacturing sector. Rising through the ranks from Supervisor to Operations Manager and ultimately Chief Operating Officer (COO) for multiple Fortune 500 companies, he became a pioneer in blending Eastern Lean principles with Western business methodologies.

His ability to streamline operations, optimize supply chains, reduce costs, and drive organizational change led to remarkable improvements across industries, from automotive and aerospace to government contracts and medical healthcare services.

His leadership has been instrumental in:

• Implementing end-to-end company transformations, resulting in millions in cost savings and exponential productivity gains.

• Developing high-performance teams by instilling a culture of continuous improvement and empowering employees at all levels.

• Redesigning operational strategies to enhance agility, resilience, and scalability in both established enterprises and fast-growing businesses.

Legacy of Excellence – Advisor, Mentor, and Change Catalyst

Beyond his corporate achievements, Curtis has dedicated himself to mentoring the next generation of business leaders and Lean practitioners. He is a sought-after speaker, consultant, and trainer, known for his ability to translate complex operational challenges into actionable, results-driven solutions.

Whether working with executives, plant managers, or frontline teams, Curtis continues to drive meaningful, measurable, and sustainable transformations—ensuring that businesses don’t just adapt but thrive in an ever-evolving global market.