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Printing Industries of America sadly reports Kenneth E. Rizzo, our Director, Technical and Lean Services, passed away suddenly Tuesday, February 15, while on assignment in suburban Boston. "Ken was a loyal and dedicated employee, author, workshop leader, speaker, and one of the world's most knowledgeable people for production efficiency and excellence," said Michael Makin, President and CEO of Printing Industries of America, when announcing Rizzo's passing.
Ken started working part-time as a press operator while attending Lakewood (OH) High School. After graduation, he was hired by Sherwin-Williams as a press operator at its printing facility in North Olmsted, OH. While working at Sherwin-Williams, Ken obtained his associate's degree in printing from Cuyahoga Community College. He honed his press skills and, over time, advanced into production management. When the North Olmsted plant was closed and production moved to a new facility in Fountain Inn, SC, Ken arranged for the equipment to be moved and hired and trained a new production staff. With Ken's help, the company implemented the concepts of what are now known as"Lean manufacturing." Ken quickly recognized the performance gains that came...