Our Optimized Operations Program offers an experience beyond the mainstream within engineering and supply chain analysis. In existence since the mid-1980s, Optimized Operations (O2) has a tremendous brand following within 3M. O2 is a one-year program that helps 3M develop world-class talent for 3M manufacturing plants. O2 employees (O2s) receive advanced training in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and statistical analysis at one of 3M's many manufacturing plants or distribution centers across the United States.
What O2s Do
O2s develop skills that allow them to contribute immediately. During training, they lead Lean Six Sigma projects in manufacturing plants or distribution centers. O2s are involved in Cost of Poor Quality (yield loss or rate loss on constrained resources) projects to develop statistical analysis (Design of Experiments, Multi-Vari, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and problem solving skills. O2s use the Lean Six Sigma methodologies and are trained as Lean Six Sigma Green Belts. In addition, O2s are trained in supply chain principles, project management, leadership, interpersonal and facilitation skills. These skills contribute to an individual's growth as well as value for our customers.
Opportunities
O2s are recruited for specific plant needs based on degree and start date. They lead at least two major projects during their training year, and their membership on multiple project teams at any given time gives them broad exposure.
O2s begin work at the plant for orientation and, after a few weeks, travel to 3M Center in St. Paul, Minn., to begin their classroom training. They are provided three 2-week training trips to St. Paul during their year in this development program.
O2s build a tremendous network with peers in the program and O2 alumni that can last throughout their career.
Career Path
O2s are typically hired for one of two start dates a year that correspond with December and June graduations. O2s complete their assignments at one plant location with the goal of full-time employment at that plant at the end of the developmental year. O2 engineers and analysts benefit from the unique experience of working closely with experienced colleagues on projects critical to the future success of 3M. O2 alumni are currently filling roles in a wide variety of 3M positions, including Plant Manager and Manufacturing Director.
Education & Experience
Candidates are selected from a diverse student population with undergraduate and graduate degrees in chemical, mechanical, industrial and quality engineering, supply chain, operations, manufacturing sciences and safety-related programs. We particularly seek candidates who have had prior manufacturing internships or co-op experiences.
3M U.S. Plant & Warehouse Locations
