A New Decade for LPAS: Honouring Our Past, Shaping Our Future

As I step into the role of President of the Lean Practitioners Association of Saskatchewan (LPAS), I find myself reflecting on the journey that has brought us here.

This year is especially meaningful because LPAS is celebrating its 10th year. Looking back, it is hard to believe that over a decade has passed since Stewart and I first discussed the idea of creating a community where continuous improvement practitioners across Saskatchewan could connect, learn, and share their experiences. What began as a simple vision has grown into a network of professionals representing diverse industries, organizations, and perspectives.

I am incredibly proud to have been one of the founders of LPAS, but even more proud of what our members have built together over the years.

My own continuous improvement journey began long before LPAS was formed. As an Industrial Engineer I was introduced to the power of process thinking, problem-solving, and the relentless pursuit of better ways of working. As I took on different roles I continued to see firsthand how Lean principles could help organizations improve quality, efficiency, and customer value in complex manufacturing environments.

As my career evolved, so did my understanding of continuous improvement. I had opportunities to apply Lean principles in government environments, where improving processes can directly impact citizens, employees, and communities. Today, as an executive in government, I continue to look for ways to apply continuous improvement every day. Whether it is improving a business process, supporting organizational change, developing teams, or even tackling projects at home, Lean has become more than a set of tools. It has become a way of thinking.

What continues to inspire me about Lean is that it begins with respect for people and a desire to understand what customers truly value. At LPAS, that same mindset will guide how we move forward.

One of my goals as President is to spend time connecting with our members and listening carefully to what they need from our association. In Lean terms, it is all about understanding the Voice of the Customer. Our members are the reason LPAS exists, and we want to ensure we are providing meaningful opportunities for learning, networking, and professional growth.

Whether you are a seasoned practitioner, a leader beginning your improvement journey, or a student curious about continuous improvement, your perspective matters. I look forward to hearing your ideas, learning from your experiences, and helping shape the future of LPAS together.

As we look ahead, it is also important to recognize the contributions of those who helped build the foundation we stand on today. Stewart's passion for continuous improvement, his belief in building connections across organizations, and his commitment to serving others helped shape LPAS from the very beginning. While much has changed over the past ten years, those principles continue to guide us. As we make decisions about the future of our association, we will continue to honour the values that Stewart championed: learning, collaboration, curiosity, and a commitment to helping others improve.

The challenges facing organizations today are different from those we faced in 2016. However, the need for continuous improvement has never been greater. The ability to adapt, learn, and improve remains one of the most important capabilities any organization can develop.

I am excited about what lies ahead for LPAS. Together, we will continue connecting Saskatchewan organizations from every sector in the use of continuous improvement to advance cultural and competitive excellence. More importantly, we will continue connecting people who share a passion for learning, improving, and helping others succeed.

Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.

Sincerely,

Jenni Gasson

President

Lean Practitioners Association of Saskatchewan