CLIENT SUCCESS: Atlas Hobbing & Tool, Co., Inc.
Vernon-Rockville
15 Employees
Atlas Hobbing & Tool Co., Inc., headquartered in Bridgeport, Connecticut, has more than 40 years of experience in plastic injection molding. In 1988, Atlas expanded through the purchase of a precision plastic injection design, build and mold shop in Tolland, quickly expanding into a first rate plastic injection molding operation. In 2003, Atlas required additional space and moved into its current 22,500 square foot location on Mountain Street in Vernon.
Fourteen years ago, a major customer required Atlas to establish a quality system that was in-line with the IS0 9000:1994 standards. Atlas looked to CONNSTEP for assistance and through the partnership, Atlas was able to prepare for and pass the customer quality audit.
However, in 2005, Atlas was facing an uncertain future. The same premier customer was reducing its supplier base and without becoming registered to the new ISO 9000:2001, Atlas was sure to lose this customer. Achieving ISO 9000:2001 was vital for Atlas and the 15 employees. Once again, Atlas turned to CONNSTEP's Manager of Quality Services, Ray Snyder, to assist them in their goal of achieving this new quality standard.
CONNSTEP brought in quality services provider, Peter Ellsworth, to work with Atlas and he came to Atlas with more than the quality certification in mind - Ellsworth was focused on Atlas's total business success. Atlas officials knew that they were in need of expertise, such as Ellsworth's, and that they needed to transform his ideas and methods into standard procedures throughout the plant. Ellsworth was instrumental in the audit process- providing the organization with good structure, format and process maps of business procedures. Ellsworth worked diligently with Atlas executives and employees on the training, implementation and rollout processes during the audit.
Atlas not only passed the customer quality audit becoming a preferred supplier, but also became ISO 9000:2001 certified in November of 2005. In addition to retaining their largest customer, becoming registered to a quality standard has allowed Atlas to build credibility in the plastics industry, providing a platform to pursue new customers. Beyond assisting them to re-write the quality manual and pursue certification, Ellsworth was able to help change the culture of Atlas. "He didn't just hand up a manual to put on our shelves, he opened-our eyes to a new way of doing business, a more efficient way," said company vice president Ron Bombard.
In addition to improving product quality, Atlas increased production about 35 percent and was able to purchase new electric machinery. Replacing the old hydraulic-based machines with new energy-efficient machinery has increased efficiency 45 percent per machine, on average. In addition to the energy savings, the new electric machines are better for Atlas and their customers as they allow for a more controlled production process.
Atlas executives know they still have some challenges to overcome with the rising costs of doing business in Connecticut, but they are hopeful that this new way of life will increase their competitiveness in the global marketplace. Atlas is again working with CONNSTEP on new initiatives including projects designed to grow their current operations, determine new market opportunities and ensure a bright future for the company.
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