if

Best Practices for AS9100 Certification in the Aerospace Industry

AS9100, the global quality management standard for aviation, space, and defense, reflects this commitment to excellence. Obtaining AS9100 certification is vital for success in this sector. This guide assists organizations in navigating the certification process, ensuring the implementation of top-quality practices across their systems.




if

The Ever-Changing Life of a Quality Management System?

A quality management system program ensures that products and services meet predefined standards, customer expectations, and company-wide benchmarks. One key principle is "first time right," addressing errors immediately at every step.




if

Nondestructive Testing Certification Mandatory for Individuals

NDT certification is essential for professionals in industries where material and structural integrity is critical. It demonstrates expertise and professionalism, benefiting individuals and organizations by improving career prospects, quality control, and compliance with industry standards.




if

Combining X-ray Fluorescence, Infrared Spectroscopy and Software Algorithms for Positive Material and Contaminant Identification

FTIR is the primary method for material and contaminant identification but lacks sensitivity to metallic components. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) can fill this gap and improve identification accuracy.




if

Greenpower Park to Establish UK as Center of Clean Energy, Electrification

The new campus will focus on battery research, manufacturing, and recycling, with the West Midlands Gigafactory as its anchor tenant.




if

A Guide to Understanding and Achieving AS9100 Certification

AS9100 is a quality management system standard tailored for the aviation, space, and defense industries. It addresses the unique challenges of aerospace operations and was created to improve quality and reduce costs in the industry by the International Aerospace Quality Group.




if

If it’s Boeing – I’m not Going!

Beleaguered Boeing Starliner's return to Earth — without the astronauts —is scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, September 5th.




if

Is it a Digital Caliper – or a Swiss Army Knife?

While the caliper is a versatile tool, it is not one of the most precise. Skill is required for positioning and interpreting measurement results.




if

Video Podcast: If You Want More Engineers, Sign Your Kids Up for that Science Olympiad

Listen to this podcast featuring Harshala Patil, a Senior Quality and Reliability Engineer. In it, she discusses her journey into quality, the significance of quality across various industries, and what attracted her to the manufacturing sector.




if

The Importance of Regulations in Certification and Audit Standards in Quality Management

In today's competitive industrial landscape, adhering to quality management certification and audit standards is vital for consistency and excellence, especially in sectors like aviation and defense. These standards drive improvement and build customer trust. Understanding the audit process is crucial, as preparation varies by audit type, enabling organizations to effectively meet auditors' expectations.





if

ISO Certification Needs to Change

Recent quality issues with Boeing aircraft reveal critical flaws in ISO certification processes, despite adherence to standards like AS 9100. Strengthening these certifications is essential for maintaining credibility and ensuring that they truly reflect an organization’s commitment to quality and safety in aerospace products.




if

Podcast: If It’s Not Boeing, I’m Not Going

Former Boeing engineer Jim Doxey explains a previous motto at the company, why people (and teamwork) are the most important part of a quality system, and offers advice for manufacturers looking to avoid quality woes. He also shares his thoughts on a 30+ career working in manufacturing.




if

Certification Exam Success From Thinking Slow Quickly

This article considers how quality professionals and practitioners can more effectively prepare for their certification exams which are proctored or supervised as they complete a selection of responses from multiple-choice questions.




if

Finding Root Causes: How to Identify and Understand the Core Issues

The most frustrating moment in problem-solving is fixing an error only to see it reappear the next day. Until the root cause is identified and addressed, the issue will persist.




if

Understanding In-Process Verification

In-process verification uses high-tech tools like 3D scanners and laser trackers on the factory floor to monitor products as they're made, allowing instant analysis and immediate problem-solving.




if

The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine Learning in Modern Quality Management

We explore two critical applications of AI and ML in quality management: predictive quality analytics and automated quality inspections.




if

Automated Solution for Long-Life Laser Modules by Robot Colleague at LASER COMPONENTS

LASER COMPONENTS Germany GmbH has taken a decisive step towards more efficient production processes by acquiring a new robot.




if

If It’s Boeing (the Company) - I’m Not Going (to Work)

Breaking news today after the month-long strike of the Boeing Factory workers is that Boeing will be laying off 10% of their workforce soon in an effort to conserve cash.




if

Renishaw Receives Industry Partner Award at Davis Technical College Foundation’s Annual Life-Changer Luncheon

Renishaw was recognized for committing its expertise to the CNC Machining program, as well as a host of the company's advanced manufacturing equipment.




if

How Accurate Surface Finish Measurement Improves Product Life and Performance

This article discusses the connection between surface finish and factors like friction, wear, and fatigue life. It explores how precise surface finish measurements improve product reliability and analyzes the evolving measurement technologies.





if

How to Read & Interpret ISO/IEC 17025 Calibration Certificates

This article is an adaptation of my popular presentation, “Beyond the Sticker & the Cert (Ensuring Better Measurements & Reducing Risk).” Product manufacturers, testing labs, and calibration labs often overlook the importance of thoroughly reviewing calibration certificates, leading to potential measurement inaccuracies and increased risks.





if

If Pigs Could Fly LIMITED EDITION CANVAS

If Pigs Could Fly LIMITED EDITION CANVAS by James Christensen is a(n) Artist Proof. The Edition is Limited to Limited to 30 pcs




if

Golden Gate Sunset (The Pacific Coast Suite)

Golden Gate Sunset (The Pacific Coast Suite) by Kerry Hallam is a(n) Limited Edition. The Edition is Limited to pcs




if

Ocean Breeze (The Pacific Coast Suite)

Ocean Breeze (The Pacific Coast Suite) by Kerry Hallam is a(n) Limited Edition. The Edition is Limited to pcs




if

Sacred Gift

Sacred Gift by Lee Bogle is a(n) Limited Edition. The Edition is Limited to Limited Edition of 250 pcs




if

A GIFT OF LILLIES

A GIFT OF LILLIES by Lladro Black Legacy is a(n) Open Edition. The Edition is Limited to Open Edition pcs




if

PACIFIC MORNING: BLACK SHEEP ON THE PROWL, L.E. PRINT

PACIFIC MORNING: BLACK SHEEP ON THE PROWL, L.E. PRINT by Craig Kodera is a(n) Limited Edition. The Edition is Limited to Limited Edition of 550 pcs




if

PACIFIC MORNING: BLACK SHEEP ON THE PROWL

PACIFIC MORNING: BLACK SHEEP ON THE PROWL by Craig Kodera is a(n) Fine Art. The Edition is Limited to Limited Edition 183 of 1000 s/n pcs




if

If two shall agree limited edition

If two shall agree limited edition by C. Michael Dudash is a(n) Open Edition. The Edition is Limited to Limited Edition pcs




if

maven-artifact-apache 13-2 i686

Parent Maven artifact for ASF software




if

maven-artifact-apache 13-2 armv7h

Parent Maven artifact for ASF software




if

maven-artifact-apache 13-2 x86_64

Parent Maven artifact for ASF software




if

Canadian Blood Services research engineer applies network modelling techniques and mentorship skills to benefit Canada’s Lifeline

Canadian Blood Services research engineer applies network modelling techniques and mentorship skills to benefit Canada’s Lifeline


Tuesday, October 22, 2024 Dr. Emily Freeman

Dr. John Blake is a research engineer at Canadian Blood Services and a Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering at Dalhousie University. Based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Dr. Blake and his trainees use engineering principles and various computer-based optimization techniques to inform large scale decisions at Canadian Blood Services.  

Applying network modelling to biologics  

To some, it may be surprising to learn that there is such opportunity to integrate engineering into the health-care focused setting of Canadian Blood Services. However, as Dr. Blake explains, the same engineering principles that apply to the development and quality assurance of other products also apply to biologics such as blood, stem cells and organs. One of these classic engineering approaches currently applied to improving operations at Canadian Blood Services is network modelling.  

Network modelling is a computer-based method that creates a virtual representation of objects and their relation to each other. The resulting models are particularly useful for maintaining adaptability in the collection of blood donations, as well as the distribution and inventory management strategies that allow Canadian Blood Services to remain a safe and reliable provider of life-saving products. 

Dr. Blake making friends while walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain

Contributing to efficiency and sustainability in Canada’s Lifeline  

For Dr. Blake’s team, modelling is not about the data acquired but rather how they can turn existing data into real life change. Part of this approach is ensuring that Canadian Blood Services is asking the right questions when it comes to allocating resources. For example, Dr. Blake has worked on models to assess how changing stem cell donor recruitment will affect the number of matches for Canadian patients. By modelling things such as recruitment approaches, Dr. Blake’s work assists Canadian Blood Services to consistently identify ways to improve Canada’s Lifeline.

Recently, Dr. Blake has also been applying this method to optimize the number and location of mobile and permanent donor facilities across the nation. This redesign of the donation facility network will address the growing demand for donations by bringing Canadian Blood Services’ facilities closer to the donors. 

“I have waited my entire career for a problem of this type – it is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Dr. John Blake, Canadian Blood Services Research Engineer

Securing the future of Canada’s Lifeline  

To sustain a safe and effective blood system in Canada for years to come, network modelling and optimization is a never-ending process. This is one of the reasons that Dr. Blake is committed to securing the future of transfusion and transplantation systems by training and mentoring the next generation of engineers. In fact, seeing his former students join Canadian Blood Services and dedicate their talents to improving the future of Canada’s Lifeline is one of Dr. Blake’s proudest achievements.  

One of Dr. Blake’s former students, Matt Nelson, is now an industrial engineer at Canadian Blood Services.  

“In my role, I use systematic thinking to build and run complex models; collect and analyze the required data; produce useful results; and explain these results to non-technical leaders on a regular basis,” Matt says. Recently, Matt contributed to the launch and expansion of pathogen-reduced platelets, a new product that was implemented across Canadian Blood Services production sites starting in 2022. The implementation of pathogen-reduced platelets has provided an additional layer of safety for recipients by reducing the risk of potential transfusion-transmitted pathogens without compromising the quality of the component. Matt credited Dr. Blake in helping him develop the necessary skills he now dedicates to safeguarding Canada’s Lifeline:  

“Dr. Blake was the professor who introduced me to the uses of simulation to understand complex non-linear systems. This type of system is very common in situations that have a lot of variability – like the blood system – and simulation allows for exploration of the response of the system to changes.” 

Matt Nelson, Canadian Blood Services Industrial Engineer

Over the years, Dr. Blake’s ongoing modelling work and mentorship activities have also led to many recognitions and awards, but he is most proud of being recognized as Professor of the Year by Dalhousie Undergraduate students, and with awards for his contributions to the Canadian Operational Research Society. He has even the earned the distinction of being Dalhousie’s first engineer to be awarded grant funding from the tri-council agency, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). 

“I am proud to work on projects that have a measurable impact on people’s health and well-being,” Dr. Blake says. “I am forever grateful to Dr. Dana Devine for first giving me the opportunity to serve Canadians in this role at Canadian Blood Services.” 


Canadian Blood Services – Driving world-class innovation

Through discovery, development and applied research, Canadian Blood Services drives world-class innovation in blood transfusion, cellular therapy and transplantation—bringing clarity and insight to an increasingly complex healthcare future. Our dedicated research team and extended network of partners engage in exploratory and applied research to create new knowledge, inform and enhance best practices, contribute to the development of new services and technologies, and build capacity through training and collaboration. Find out more about our research impact.   

The opinions reflected in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Canadian Blood Services nor do they reflect the views of Health Canada or any other funding agency.  

Related blog posts


Tuesday, March 29, 2022
Marie-Soleil Smith

This post was written by Marie-Soleil Smith, PhD Candidate in Dr. Hélène Côté’s Lab at the University of British Columbia, and edited by Dr. Geraldine Walsh, knowledge broker at Canadian Blood Services. It originally appeared on the Centre for Blood Research blog in March 2022.


Monday, January 22, 2018
Dr. Geraldine Walsh

For the latest instalment of “Meet the researcher” we chatted with Dr. John Blake, Canadian Blood Services’ research engineer and also known as “the numbers guy”.


Wednesday, June 13, 2018
Jenny Ryan

On June 5, Canadian Blood Services was honoured to accept the Canadian Operational Research Society's Omandt Solandt Award at a reception in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Michelle Rogerson, Director, Supply Chain (Atlantic), Canadian Blood Services, accepted the award on behalf of the organization. About...




if

Divided Nation: Study Shows Most Trump Voters See American Values Under Siege, Deepening Psychological Rift




if

Scientists Identify New Chemical Behind Corpse Flower’s Rotting Smell



  • Life & Non-humans

if

Scientists Design First Practical Light-Amplifying Crystal That Could Revolutionize Medical Sensors




if

Maple Helps Hiab Simplify Their Crane Operation

Hiab recently used Maple to improve safety measures and ease burden on crane operators




if

Navy To Extend Life Of 12 Destroyers And Three Cruisers

The Navy plans to extend the operations of 12 Flight 1 Arleigh Burke-class (DDG-51) destroyers and three Ticonderoga-class cruisers past their planned service lives to boost fleet numbers, the service […]




if

Diversified Heat Transfer Launches New Corporate Brand Strategy And Website

Diversified Heat Transfer (DHT) announced the launch of its new corporate brand strategy and website, www.dhtnet.com, that elevates the company’s corporate identity and supports the ongoing evolution of the brand.

 




if

California Details Decarbonization Plan

California is usually at the forefront of most environmental movements in the U.S., and its plan to aggressively reduce — and ultimately eliminate — carbon emissions is no different.




if

LG Electronics Identifies Heat Pumps as Key Element of Green, Smart Home Ecosystem

Thomas Yoon, president and CEO, LG North America CEO, addresses barriers to market growth at a recent White House executive roundtable. 




if

California Launches IRA Rebate Program

Owners and agents of multifamily buildings in California may apply now for rebates on heat-pump heating and cooling units. The owners of single-family homes in the state will be able to apply for rebates for new heat pumps for space heating and cooling within the next several weeks.




if

A.O. Smith Acquires Water-Purification Business Pureit

Pureit offers a broad range of residential water-purification solutions, primarily in India.




if

hilmor: Aluminum Manifold

hilmor’s ruggedly durable Aluminum Manifold comes in 2- and 4-valve combinations and features a forged aluminum body and high-impact gauge boots.




if

Automation Components Inc.: Low Differential Pressure Transmitter

ACI’s compact sized, A/MLP Series Pressure Transmitter is designed specifically for panel mount, duct and OEM installations. Pressure ranges from +/- 0.5 inch to +/- 20 inches of water column.




if

Field Controls: UV Air Purification Upgrade

The new PRO-Cell™ Upgrade Assembly magnifies the power of purification when added to any Field Controls UV-16. These models can be upgraded with the addition of a PCUV-16UA, boosting their UVC germicidal performance.




if

Global Plasma Solutions: Air Purification System

The GPS-iClean is the world’s first self-cleaning, no-maintenance air purification system that can reduce particles, control odors, kill pathogens, and even save energy by reducing ventilation air requirements.




if

Oregon HVAC Contractor Certified as B Corporation

Reitmeier is the first commercial HVAC company in the world to achieve the distinction of becoming a certified B Corporation.




if

Vertiflo Pump Co.: Centrifugal Pumps

With easy access to the impeller and case to remove debris, this product has an oversized, tapered bore and a self-flushing seal chamber.




if

Parker Sporlan Designs Products to Make Life Easier for Contractors

Parker Sporlanls latest offerings include a rugged carrying case, off-the-shelf valves, and a simple-to-use board for refrigeration control.