Optimising Supply Chain Processes at Woodward
Addressing the Intricacies of Electronic Component Supply Chain
During my role as a Software Engineer at Woodward Inc, a global leader in energy control and optimisation solutions, the key focus was on devising strategies to prevent shortages of critical electronic components. These components formed the backbone of our high-end microcontrollers and devices. Catering to an expansive client base, including Caterpillar Inc., Honeywell Inc., MAN AG, Pratt & Whitney, and Rolls-Royce plc, we produced an array of products including power generation systems, controllers for large-scale engines, gas turbines, and wind turbines.
Incorporating an Innovative Product Change Notification (PCN) System
To tackle supply chain complexities, we engineered a system equipped with a novel Product Change Notification (PCN) feature. This technological integration gave our sales teams an edge, enabling them to anticipate component changes and determine the optimal procurement quantities. This strategic planning helped to ensure smooth production operations, a vital aspect when catering to industry giants I mentioned before.
Strategically Managing the End-of-Life (EoL) Phase
An inherent challenge in the electronics manufacturing industry is the End-of-Life (EoL) phase for components. At Woodward, we crafted a strategy to mitigate this risk by procuring the necessary components nearing their EoL phase. This manoeuvre led to substantial cost savings, reaching into millions, and it streamlined our supply chain by guaranteeing uninterrupted production for our range of clients.
Transition to the Core Team
Upon the successful deployment of our new system, I had the privilege to join Woodward's Core Team based in
the Fort Collins HQ. We worked on a groundbreaking platform capable of uploading and updating systems on a myriad of devices. The broad scope of this project ranged from energy controllers, gas and wind turbines to devices used by the Airframe Systems (AS), all serving a wide range of applications, including large-scale maritime operations.
The Tech Takeaways from the Global Energy Industry
In retrospect, our journey at Woodward is a testament to the power of technological innovation, collaborative effort, and strategic foresight in optimising supply chain management for enhanced production efficiency. We converted potential roadblocks into opportunities for growth, fortifying Woodward's standing in the industry and upholding our commitment to our prestigious clientele, including giants from the industry listed on NASDAQ.
