FAQ'S
What exactly is a Green Belt and why would I want one?*
The Six Sigma Green Belt operates in support of or under the supervision of a Black Belt, analyzing and solving quality problems and is involved in quality improvement projects. A Green Belt is typically someone with at least three years of work experience who wants to demonstrate his or her knowledge of Six Sigma tools and processes.
At the project level, there are black belts, master black belts, green belts, yellow belts and white belts. These people conduct projects and implement improvements.
- Black Belt: Leads problem-solving projects. Trains and coaches project teams.
- Green Belt: Assists with data collection and analysis for Black Belt projects. Leads Green Belt projects or teams.
- Master Black Belt: Trains and coaches Black Belts and Green Belts. Functions more at the Six Sigma program level by developing key metrics and the strategic direction. Acts as an organization’s Six Sigma technologist and internal consultant.
- Yellow Belt: Participates as a project team member. Reviews process improvements that support the project.
- White Belt: Can work on local problem-solving teams that support overall projects, but may not be part of a Six Sigma project team. Understands basic Six Sigma concepts from an awareness perspective.
*Source: ASQ Website.
I see that I can get a Green Belt in as little as a few days. What differentiates WPI’s Green Belt from the competition? Why does it take longer at WPI?
Not all Green Belt Certifications are created equal. WPI’s motto is Lehr and Kunst (Theory and Practice); we developed our certification with that philosophy in mind. Both theory and application of principles are needed to gain a complete understanding of the tools and how they apply to projects. In the six months it takes to become certified, students will be able to apply the tools learned in class to work-related projects. Each individual student will be responsible for reporting on their project at the beginning of each session and to show how they are using the tools and applying them to their projects.
Who is teaching the course?
The Green Belt Certification program will be taught by WPI Instructor Jim Leonard. Jim will teach the Six Sigma courses. He is a consultant and educator specializing in teaching the principles of Dr. W. Edwards Deming as a new system of management. Jim also helps organizations design systems for improving quality, productivity and competitive position. Jim has served on the New England Deming Prize Committee, the American Quality and Productivity Institute’s Education Forum and the Juran Institute Advisory Committee for Quality in Service Industries. Jim has also assisted the late Dr. W. Edwards Deming in Deming’s executive workshop, “Quality, Productivity and Competitive Position.”
What if I have to miss a workshop?
This will be handled on a case by case basis. Participants are strongly advised to adjust their schedules in order to attend all workshops.
What if I miss more than one workshop?
If a student misses more than one workshop, they are ineligible to receive Green Belt certification.
Will there be additional time needed outside of the classroom?
Yes. Because the Green Belt program includes a project, it will require work to be done outside of the classroom. This time will vary based on the tools taught and the individual’s project. Students can expect to spend approximately ten additional hours on their project in between each class. Projects should be work-based; therefore, it is anticipated that you can work on your project during your regular business hours.
