MRPC Hires Quality Director

Butler, Wis.-based MRPC recently added Eric Powers as quality director.

MRPC, a provider of medical device components and assemblies, specializes in clean-room molding with a focus on silicone molding, two-material molding and micro-molding.

In his new role, Powers will focus on improving communication around quality both internally and externally while driving continued improvement in MRPC’s quality processes. With more than 20 years of quality and operations experience in global organizations, Powers is “uniquely qualified to support MRPC’s clients as they transition production of their molded components away from offshore manufacturers,” according to MRPC officials.
 
“MRPC keeps quality at the forefront of everything we do,” said Greg Riemer, president of MRPC. “Our team of experts is focused on delivering high-quality products to every client, and this runs through every area of our organization. Whether it’s operations, quality or even our executive leadership team, the customer is always kept top of mind.”

“I have seen firsthand the limitations that overseas manufacturers have when it comes to production quality,” said Powers. “A production strategy focused solely on cost drives companies to choose offshore production, but MRPC can address common communication and quality issues that arise in these types of engagements.”
 
On the subject of quality, MRPC also reports the “re-shoring” of two of the company’s customers.

According to MRPC execs, the company has created “significant quality improvements” for two clients to bring production of their molded components back to the United States from offshore manufacturers.
 
While the clients initially transitioned their manufacturing productions to offshore molders to drive cost savings, “they quickly realized that these savings were achieved at the expense of component quality,” officials said.

For many manufacturers, the cost advantages of offshoring the molding of their components are negligible when the expense of international shipping is factored in, according to MRPC. Offshoring also can be challenging for manufacturers in highly regulated industries, where material quality and certifications must be factored into the production process.
 
“It is important for manufacturers to consider all aspects of a project when selecting a molding partner—not just cost,” said Riemer. “While cost savings are certainly a critical factor for many companies, there are various other benefits that come from working with a local manufacturer, including ease of communications, streamlined logistics, patent coverage and industry-specific certifications.”