Two training courses, ASQ-CCT and ASQ-CQT, each full two days, are offered Monday and Tuesday, March 23 – 24, followed by exam on Wednesday, March 25.

Full Day = workshop delivered the entire day.
Half Day = workshop delivered in the morning and repeated in the afternoon.
 

ASQ / CCT Training Part I:  ASQ Certified Calibration Technician Exam Refresher Workshop
Dilip Shah
E=mc3 Solutions, GK Systems, Inc.
(Full Day)

ASQ certifications have had a history of recognition for over 35 years and they are recognized and endorsed internationally by major corporations. The ASQ Certified Calibration Technician Exam was first offered in 2003 and shall approach its sixth anniversary in 2009 with over 800 candidates passing the exam. This year, the MSC is offering a refresher workshop (March 23-24) in conjunction with the administration of the CCT Exam (March 25). The refresher workshop shall prepare the CCT candidate for a final practice round of exam questions, exam taking techniques and any other concerns. 

Note:
• The prospective candidate has to apply and pay separately for taking the exam. There is an application deadline for taking the test.
• There are pre-requisites for taking the exam.
• MSC does not administer the CCT exam. ASQ administers the exam in facilities provided by MSC.
• For more information on the application process, please visit: http://www.asq.org/certification/apply.html
• Check the MSC and ASQ web sites for any further updates on the workshop
• Please bring a non programmable calculator to the workshop.
• ASQ shall also administer the CQT and CQI tests. There will not be a refresher workshop for those offered at MSC.

For additional information: Dilip Shah (330) 328-4400
e-mail emc3solu@aol.com, web site: www.emc3solutions.com

Workshop Developer Biography

Dilip A. Shah (ASQ Senior Member) has over 30 years of industry experience in metrology, electronics, instrumentation, measurement and computer applications of statistics in the Quality Assurance areas. He is well versed in all measurement parameters. He has been employed in various positions with Phillips Electronics (UK), Kodak Ltd. (UK), Instruments Division of Monsanto Corporation, Flexsys America and Alpha Technologies. He is currently a Principal of E = mc3 Solutions, a consulting practice that provides training and consulting solutions in ISO9000/TS 16949, ISO17025, measurement and computer applications.

Dilip is certified by American Society for Quality (ASQ) as a Certified Quality Auditor, Certified Quality Engineer and Certified Calibration Technician. Dilip volunteers his time with the local Akron-Canton (Ohio) ASQ section where he was the Chair (2001-2002 year). Dilip has been a member of the advisory board of the University of Akron Engineering and Science Technology Division since 1988. Dilip also belongs to the Statistics, Automotive, Inspection, Quality Audit and Measurement Quality Divisions (Chair 2003-2005 year) of American Society for Quality. Dilip is the co-author of The Metrology Handbook published by the ASQ Quality Press. Dilip participated in the development of ASQ’s Certified Calibration Technician exam. Dilip participates actively in the measurement related issues through National Conference of Standards Laboratories International (NCSLI) and the west coast based Measurement Science Conference (MSC) where he presents sessions, papers and workshops. Dilip also is a member of Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). Dilip is the recipient of MQD’s Highest Award, the 2005 Max J. Unis Award and co-recipient of MSC’s 2003 Algie Lance Award for the Best Paper (Gage R. & R. versus ANOVA). Dilip is a Member of the A2LA Board of Directors (2006-2009). Dilip is a Chief Subject Matter Expert for Workplace Training Inc. which provides many on-line measurement-related training options to the industry. Dilip is also involved in Education & Training Committee activities of NCSLI. 

Dilip Shah (ASQ CQA, CQE, CCT) 
E = mc3 Solutions
197 Great Oaks Train #130
Wadsworth, Ohio 44281-8215
Tel: (330) 328-4400
 

ASQ / CQT Training – Part I):  ASQ Certified Quality Technician Exam Refresher Workshop 
Milton Krivokuca 
California State University Dominguez Hills
(Full-Day)

In this two-day refresher course, CQT candidates will receive an overview of the ten elements contained in the body of knowledge for this professional ASQ certification. Each element of the BOK will be reviewed in a format that prepares candidates for this 100 question multiple-choice exam. Key aspects of each element of the BOK will be discussed using sample exam questions as the basis. By using this method, candidates become familiar with the test question structure and the theory supporting the exam questions. 

The CQT is a natural progression of accomplishment from the CCT towards the ultimate Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) certification. The class is designed for student and instructor interaction. Pre reading of the CQT Primer, published the Quality Council of Indiana is required. There will be several practice tests administered in class and as homework. For detailed information of the ten elements contained in the CQT BOK, please visit ASQ.org and visit the Training and Certification section on the right side menu.

For additional information: Milton Krivokuca (310) 243-3352 
e-mail: mkrivokuca@csudh.edu

Workshop Developer Biography

Milton Krivokuca  is currently the program coordinator for the BSQA and MSQA program at California State University-Dominguez Hills. He teaches various business courses, especially classes related to quality and ASQ Certification Refreshers Courses. In addition, Milton Krivokuca instructs literature and writing classes to business/technology majors. He possesses an undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh in Management Science or Business Statistics. 

His MBA is in Operations Management, with a focus of quality systems, from DePaul University. Milton Krivokuca also has an MA from Purdue University in Literature. After 25 years of manufacturing related experience, he began teaching and earned his Doctor of Business Administration in business on-line at California Coast University.

His professional accomplishments include earning CQIA, CQT, CQA, CMQ/OE, CPM, CBM, and CMP certifications. He is also a RAB certified ISO9000: 2000 auditor.

His professional activities consist of being a senior member of ASQ and currently the Quality Management Division Marketing Chair. On July 1, 2007, he began a two-year term as Vice Chair for Marketing on the ASQ Quality Management Division leadership team. When not teaching, Milton Krivokuca is a judge in the International Team Excellences Competition, California Team Excellence program, and an examiner for the California Awards for Performance Excellence.
 

ASQ / CCT Training ~ Part II (CONTINUED): ASQ Certified Calibration Technician Exam Refresher Workshop
Dilip Shah
E=mc3 Solutions
(Full-Day) 
 

ASQ / CQT Training – Part II (CONTINUED):  ASQ Certified Quality Technician Exam Refresher Workshop 
Milton Krivokuca 
California State University Dominguez Hills
(Full-Day)
 

WORKSHOP::  Improving your organization through Proficiency Testing 
Instructor: Jeff C. Gust 
MeasurePT Inc.
(Full-Day) 
      
Are you looking for ways to verify the things that your laboratory does correctly while identifying opportunities for improvement in the services that you perform?  Proficiency Testing, a determination of your laboratory’s performance by means of Inter-laboratory comparison, is an excellent tool in which to accomplish this.  Proficiency Testing (PT) can effectively be used as a means to validate the laboratory’s:

• Training
• Environment
• Measurement Methods
• Measurement Uncertainty
• Equipment
• Traceability
• Result Reporting
• Ability to meet customer requirements

This workshop has been designed to provide answers about; what proficiency testing is, who can benefit from it, when is it appropriate to participate, where can I locate available proficiency tests and how to interpret and react to proficiency test data.   This workshop will also cover things you should look for from a proficiency test provider, and when is it more economical for you to develop your own proficiency test programs.

Is your organization being required to participate in proficiency testing by an accreditation body, upper management, or customer?  This workshop will also discuss the PT requirements of accreditation bodies, how and when to submit results, and how to draft a documented PT plan.  We can demonstrate how you can save money by developing an optimal PT plan for your laboratory that both meets relevant requirements without participating in proficiency tests that may not be required.  

For additional information: Jeff Gust (260) 244-7450 
email: gust@quamete.com
 

WORKSHOP: Calibration and Testing 101 - Back to Basics. Practical Applications of Measurement Standard Requirements 
James Smith (Smitty), Boeing IDS 
Greg Cenker, Edison ESI 
Dr. Dennis Jackson, NSWC Corona Division 
Stephen Doty, NSWC Corona Division                     
Tim Mason, Edison ESI                      
(Full-Day)
                                             
This tutorial will present and examine a number of elements relating to the functions, features and concerns of a working calibration/testing lab & its personnel. This selection of topics is not traditionally covered in a Metrology training seminar. Design of this presentation covers items more of interest to individuals who are working in new disciplines, their Managers, Leads, Trainers or those whose formal calibration/testing experience has been limited to “On the Job Training” (OJT). 
Emphasis has been made to combine a series of short overviews that will provide a broad spectrum of information with reference material to lead the student to further pursue those topics of priority or interest. This real world approach builds upon elements of specific skill sets, both technical and standard compliance, measurement quality programs and its impact on performance.  
This information is presented in a casual, relaxed and fun atmosphere.  

Key Areas: While many attributes contribute to a successful calibration program. This tutorial will cover: 
   
• Uncertainty Analysis for the real world 
    o How to be certain about uncertainty 
• Temperature Process Calibration 
    o Busting the myths 
• Calibrating a Lemon and other fruits and vegetables  
    o The Lemon Experiment-OJ, its not just for breakfast anymore 
• Guard banding Overview 
    o Keeping rogue integers in the crosswalk 
• Measurement Impact on World History 
    o Six thousand years and a slide-rule to get to the moon  
• How to Survive an Audit - Auditee Responsibilities 
    o Metrology’s version of Kevlar 
• Risk Process and Terminology Simplified 
    o The big picture, crayons included

Who Should Attend?

All Metrology personnel, Calibration Managers & related staff, Instrument, Test & Quality engineers, wanting to augment or reinforce current skills, Companies & Programs looking into creating or extending their calibration/testing functions. Current “Program” representatives interested in enhancing their understanding of the measurement field and Metrology/Calibration/ Test technicians who are looking to expand their skill set with a broader knowledge of the application of measurement science. 

For additional information: Tim Mason (714) 895-0731  
email: Tim.Mason@sce.com 
 

WORKSHOP:  Accreditation: Challenges and Solutions  
Hershal Brewer 
International Accreditation Service (IAS)
(Full-Day)

Accreditation for laboratories is on the increase, and understanding the challenges and standard involved in accreditation is crucial. This workshop will address common issues encountered by laboratories seeking accreditation. These issues include: 

• The scope of accreditation
• Measurement uncertainties
• Traceability
• Proficiency testing for laboratories
• Management review and internal audit
• Personnel qualification
• Records
• Computer systems and software
• Sub-contracting and purchasing
• Customer complaints and corrective action 
• Reporting calibration results 
• Marketing the accredited laboratory 
• General criteria for selecting the accrediting body (AB) 

For additional information, Hershal C. Brewer (562) 699-0541 x. 3309 
email: hbrewer@iasonline.org
 

WORKSHOP:  Analytical Chemistry for Metrologists  
Instructor: Jerry D. Messman
Stranaska Scientific LLC
(Full-Day)

Designed as an introductory tutorial on selected topics of analytical chemistry, this workshop is intended for metrologists and calibration specialists who have no formal background or educational training in analytical chemistry.  It is not a tutorial per se on the calibration and qualification of analytical instruments.

Analytical measuring instruments (e.g., spectrometers, chromatographs, electrochemical analyzers, etc), and the analytical techniques and methodologies for which they are used, are based on appropriate fundamental principles of analytical chemistry and applied physics. Building scientific defensibility, confidence, and credibility into the science-based calibration and performance evaluation of these instruments, relative to the analytical methods for which they are used, requires a working knowledge of analytical chemistry.

Although it is taught from an academic perspective, this tutorial workshop includes practical ramifications of the theory and concepts relevant to many of the analytical measurement techniques which metrologists may encounter in their workplace.  The instructive goal here is to empower the metrologist with an awareness and sufficient insight into the basics of analytical chemistry.  The intended workshop outcome will facilitate an efficient and cost-effective approach to analytical calibration projects through an improvement in scientific communications and technical interactions with analytical laboratory managers, scientists, technicians, and instrument operators.

Workshop participants will acquire a basic introduction to the terminology, simplified theory (minimum of equations and math), and concepts of selected topics in analytical chemistry.  Such knowledge forms the backbone of the underlying principles and distinctions for scientific approaches to sample and standard preparation, sample presentation, analysis, and calibration/qualification in analytical measurement techniques.  Interactive class exercises include problem-solving examples of analytical chemistry in practice.

Selected workshop topics include:

Analytical data reporting – decimal places, significant figures
Mole concept – Avogadro’s Number, SI traceability
Solution concentration units (e.g., molarity, normality, etc)
Chemical nomenclature, laws, equations, balancing rules
Atomic structure - isotopes, oxidation (valence) states, ionization
Energy Levels – Electronic, vibrational
Atomic and molecular weights, gravimetric factors
Chemical bonding - covalent, ionic, hydrogen
Acid-base theory - equilibria, dissociation, solubility, buffers, pH
Redox potentials
Isomerization, polarization, chirality, speciation
Analytical measurement techniques
 - Optical spectroscopy – atomic, molecular
 - Separations – chromatography (gas, liquid, ion)
 - Electrochemistry
 - Mass Spectrometry

For additional information:  Jerry Messman (970) 282-3840 
email jerrym@stranaska.com

WORKSHOP: Measurement Uncertainty: Fundamental Applications and Considerations 
Dilip Shah
E=mc3 Solutions
(Full-Day)

This is a beginner to intermediate level workshop targeted towards metrologists, technicians and engineers. This workshop will also be useful for procurers of calibration services.  This workshop covers the Measurement Uncertainty fundamentals for metrology professionals new to the subject. Statistical concepts relevant to Metrology and Measurement Uncertainty are introduced, explained and demonstrated. Topics from the U. S. Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (ANSI/NCSL Z540-2-1997) are covered.

Building on the fundamentals, the workshop proceeds to cover practical examples encountered in metrology using a hands-on approach for determining Measurement Uncertainty. The workshop breaks down the Measurement Uncertainty determination into a 7-step process. As each step is covered, a computer spreadsheet template is developed to calculate and document the uncertainty data. Examples and techniques related to metrology and measurement; including Test Uncertainty Ratios (TUR), risk analysis, control charting applications in metrology and data validation are discussed during the workshop to ensure that participants leave the session with practical and timesaving techniques that can be utilized in their profession. 

For additional information: Dilip Shah (330) 328-4400
e-mail emc3solu@aol.com, web site: www.emc3solutions.com
 

WORKSHOP: Temperature Calibration Uncertainty Analysis: Introduction and Overview  
Ron Ainsworth
Hart Scientific
(Half-Day)
     
This presentation is a step by step review of the tools necessary to evaluate the uncertainties present in temperature calibrations. Topics include curve fitting errors, error propagation, error budgeting, TURs, and statistical process control. Also discussed will be pertinent fundamentals of uncertainty analysis as outlined in the Guide to The Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM). This segment is intended for those who are new to uncertainty analysis as well as those who are well versed but require further guidance or clarification. 

For additional information: Ron Ainsworth (801) 763-1600
email: ron.ainsworth@hartscientific

Workshop Developer Biography

Ron Ainsworth is the marketing manager for Hart Scientific, a division of Fluke Corporation. Formerly the calibration laboratory manager, Ron has been with the company since 1999.  Having studied both at U.C. Berkeley and Brigham Young University, he holds both a BS in Physics and an MBA degree.  Ron has been a frequent speaker at NCLSI, regional and international events and is currently the coordinator for the NCSLI Utah section. His research has been published through TEMPMEKO, NCSLI and the American Institute of Physics.
 

WORKSHOP: Uncertainty Computation by Monte-Carlo Simulation and its Use in the Calibration Software MetroVal
Alex Lepek
Newton Metrology Ltd., Israel
(Half-Day)

Monte-Carlo simulation is a well know technique for solving complicated problems. Instead of solving a problem analytically, a simulation of the problem is made and the solution is the average obtained from many random trials. Therefore, a precise outcome requires a large number of such repetitions and a computer must be used. 

When applied to uncertainty calculations, one simulates the contribution of the uncertainty components by means of random numbers. These random numbers should behave in the same manner as the physical components, that is, they should have the same statistical distribution. This of course guarantees the same standard deviation and mean. Also, the random numbers should be correlated with other components in a way that reflects the relations between the components in the real world. For example, if the measurement equation Y=F(X1,...,Xn) is known then X1 through Xn are simulated by random numbers and the uncertainty in Y and its mean value are obtained from a histogram of F. For the usually required uncertainty in uncertainty, 10000 repetitions are more than enough and can be easily accomplished during the process of calibration.

Monte-Carlo simulation in uncertainty calculations is now a recognized approach by ISO and some calculation methods are described in the first supplement to the ISO GUM. The important point is that in many cases there are large differences between the classic ISO GUM uncertainty outcomes and the Monte-Carlo outcomes. Monte-Carlo is always correct.

We shall use the calibration and analysis program MetroVal to demonstrate how to run Monte-Carlo simulations to compute real uncertainty problems. A comparison will be made with the outcome of the classical ISO GUM methods, also obtained by MetroVal. If you have an interesting case and wish to include it in the demonstration, please send it in advance.

MetroVal was developed and used by labs long before ISO GUM supplement was issued. MetroVal is a calibration program that complies with international requirements and recommendations such as ISO 17025 (accreditation), ISO GUM (uncertainty calculations) and ILAC G8 (compliance with specifications). It computes real and complex number uncertainties (using several methods) while calibrating, using the measured values, additional required data and can use the actual calibration history of the measurement standards. One can do the calculations independently of a calibration. The program uses VISA to control instruments automatically. No experience with MetroVal is required for this tutorial but if you are curious, you may download it from http://www.newtonmetrology.com for early pre-lecture hands-on experience.

For additional information: Dr. Alex Lepek nmetro@newtonmetrology.com 
 

Workshop Developer Biography

Dr. Alex Lepek obtained his PhD in physics from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem in 1977.
He developed several national measurement standards for the National Physical Laboratory of Israel from 1987 to 1997.
Dr. Alex Lepek Participated in the establishment of the Israeli Metrological Society and served as its first president.
Since 1997 he is the CEO for Newton Metrology Ltd which develops software and provides consulting in metrology (www.newtonmetrology.com).
 

WORKSHOP:  Optical Detectors and Laser Measurements
Marla L. Dowell and John H. Lehman 
NIST, Optoelectronics Division
(Half-Day)

Optical detectors constantly evolve with the implementation of new materials and fabrication techniques that are intended to enhance the performance and reduce the cost of existing detector types. Optical detectors are often written about and explained with jargon that obstructs a comprehensive understanding of the many and varied detector types.  For example, a detector is often informally referred to by the material from which it is made, such as a "germanium detector," or the principle upon which it operates, such as a "photodiode," or the primary use, such as an "IR detector" or "fast pulse detector."  Despite the obviously different meanings of each of these detector types, the names may simply refer to the same physical device. In this workshop, we will present an introduction to optical detectors, discuss calibration of optical detectors for laser measurements, and describe national traceability for calibration of optical detectors for laser power and energy measurements.

Tutorial Objectives:
1. Introduction to optical detectors for laser measurements
2. Describe calibration of optical detectors for laser measurements
3. Describe national traceability for calibration of optical detectors for laser measurements
4. Describe basic detector properties and operation
5. Provide a short informal quiz

For additional information: Marla Dowell (303) 497-7455 
email: marla.dowell@nist.gov
or John Lehman (303) 497-3654
email: john.lehman@nist.gov
 

WORKSHOP: Microwave Power Calibration  
Andy Brush, CEO, TEGAM Inc.
Charles Sperazza, Senior Applications Engineer, TEGAM Inc.
Robert Kilgore, Chief Metrologist, Northrop Grumman SureCAL
(Half-Day)

The Microwave Power Calibration Workshop will present practical topics relating to effective transfer of calibration in microwave power sensors. 

The workshop includes:

The basics of RF power measurement, including types of sensors; the traceability of RF power measurements to SI units, through micro-calorimeters and dimensions; the section on uncertainty of RF power measurement has been revised and extended to provide a deeper insight into the sources of uncertainty and how to create error budgets.
The section on source match correction has been improved to give a clearer view of how source match affects uncertainty and how it is corrected for, as well as the uncertainty of the correction.
A brief overview of use of software to automate RF power sensor calibration (with mismatch correction)
The construction and characterization of microwave standards will be covered, with a brief on the sources of error in typical primary standards. The methodologies for transferring between standards, with discussion of sources of error will be presented in depth, with examples. Different types of power sensors and methods for calibrating them, including associated uncertainty, will be discussed. Calculations and required measurement for reducing error by correcting for port mismatch will be covered with examples. The Workshop will conclude with a presentation on issues related to automating the calibration process using software.
 

WORKSHOP:  Humidity Measurement   
Ken Soleyn
GE Infrastructure Sensing
(Half-Day) 
    
The Humidity Measurement Tutorial provides metrologist, engineers and technicians as well as those specifying and operating metrology, process, and building automation instruments and controls with an overview of humidity measurement and instrumentation fundamentals.  Humidity control is a very important parameter for energy management, process control, product testing and process validation of various parameters such as heat transfer, dimensional stability, emissions control and power management, yet the science of humidity measurement is often very difficult to understand. The emphasis is placed on providing insight into the design and calibration of humidity and trace moisture instrumentation.  The workshop includes discussions of various humidity measurement technologies. A CD-Rom with humidity parameter conversion software and technical papers on the subject is provided subject.   

Workshop outline:

1. Humidity Measurement Fundamentals  
1.1. Water Vapor Pressure  – The Key to Humidity Measurement 
1.2. The Importance of Humidity Measurement
1.3. Partial Pressure of Water Vapor 
1.4. Composition of Air 
1.5. Definitions of Humidity Terms & Formulas 
1.6. Effects of Temperature & Pressure on Humidity 

2. Humidity Sensors & Instruments  
2.1. Thermal Conductivity 
2.2. Resistive
2.3. Capacitive
2.4. Trace Al/Si Oxide
2.5. Mechanical
2.6. Psychrometers (Wet/Dry Bulb)
2.7. Chilled Mirror Hygrometers
2.8. Sensor Signal Conditioners & Transmitters
2.9. HVAC & Energy Management Transmitters
2.10. Industrial Humidity Instruments
2.11. Trace Humidity Instruments
2.12. Electrolytic & Quartz crystal
2.13. Tunable Diode Laser Hygrometers
2.14. Cavity Ring down Laser Hygrometers

3. Humidity Calibration Standards & Generators 
3.1. Humidity Calibration Uncertainty 
3.2. Gravimetric Standard 
3.3. Two Pressure Generators
3.4. Two Temperature Generators
3.5. Permeation Generators 
3.6. Divided Flow Generators
3.7. Condensation Hygrometers (Chilled Mirrors)
3.8. Calibration Methods and Tips 
3.9. Calibration of Humidity Test Chambers 

4. Applying Humidity Instruments
4.1. Industrial Applications 
4.2. Sampling Systems & Materials 
4.3. Case Studies 
4.4. Applications Review 
  
5. Question & Answer Session 

For additional information: Ken Soleyn (978) 437-1000 x1924
email: ken.soleyn@ge.com

Workshop Developer Biography

Ken Soleyn is the Product Manager for Humidity Metrology Instruments at GE General Eastern Instruments in Wilmington, MA.  He has been with the organization since 1999.  Ken has worked as a sales engineer and business manager in the field of industrial sensors and process controls for 19 years.  He also spent five years as an analytical chemist.   Ken has an AS degree in Chemistry from Kingsborough College in Brooklyn, NY. Ken is a member of NCSL and MSC as written a number of papers and articles on the subject of humidity sensors and instrumentation.  
 

WORKSHOP:  Quality Improvements Tools & Techniques
Suzi Wesch
Davis Calibration
(Half-Day)

The tutorial explores approaches that can be used to balance business and quality in the laboratory. Approaches such as risk management, costs of quality and ISO 9004:2000 will be presented. 

For additional information: Suzi Wesch at swesch@davisinotek.com
 

WORKSHOP:  Very Low Pressure Calibration 
Mike Bair and Karl Kurtz
DH Instruments, Inc.
(Half-Day)

Abstract: This workshop focuses on the special challenges of very low gauge and differential pressure calibration.  Though specific to low pressure, topics range from the fundamental concepts of pressure measurements to the practical issues encountered in hardware setups, data acquisition and the measurement process, and can be applied to many other types of pressure measurements. The measurement influences and uncertainties that dominate at very low pressure are analyzed. Participants experience hands-on measurement exercises illustrating the points discussed. 

For additional technical information: Karl Kurtz (602) 431-9100 x 203
email: kkurz@dhinstruments.com

or Michael Bair (602) 431-9400 x. 234
email: mbair@dhinstruments.com
 

WORKSHOP: A Quality Calibration Program for ISO & QSR Programs
Jay L. Bucher 
Bucherview Metrology Services, LLC 
(Half-Day)

If a business (biotech, pharmaceutical, chemical, or any life science company) expects to be a player in its market segment, their product(s) must have the quality demanded by their customers. This can only be accomplished with test instruments that produce repeatable, accurate and traceable measurements and/or outputs. In the 21st Century, most industries have compliance standards (i.e. ISO 9000 or ISO 13485) or regulator requirements (QSR, cGMP, etc. for the FDA) that view calibration of test equipment as a top priority. It is common knowledge that the calibration function is one of the top three areas written up for non-compliance to ISO standards and QSR regulations. 
It isn’t enough to just calibrate a piece of test equipment anymore. Calibration procedures must be written and followed. Records for each and every calibration must be completed, signed, saved and archived. A written process must be in place for items that are found to be out-of-tolerance – and this is only the tip of the quality calibration program iceberg. Traceability, calibration standards, uncertainty budgets, calibration intervals, labels and the environment must also be documented. We will also review calibration management software, scheduling practices, training and continuous process improvements. 
 This tutorial will cover the calibration requirements needed to meet and exceed the standards and regulations most industries must comply with to be productive in today’s fast paced, fiscally savvy environment. The lessons learned from developing, implementing and managing a ‘Best in Class’ calibration program will be shared with the attendees. Examples of calibration procedures, records (electronic and hard copy) and interval analysis will help demonstrate how easy it is to have a quality calibration program at your own company, while saving time and money by not having to send all your test equipment out for calibration. 

For additional information: Jay L. Bucher (608) 846-6968
email: yokota-69@charter.net 

Workshop Developer Biography

Jay Bucher started his calibration and Metrology career in 1971 with the US Air Force's Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratories (PMEL) program. In 1994 he was selected to upgrade the capabilities of the Indonesian Air Force's PMEL program. Jay trained their PMEL officers and Sr. NCOs in all aspects of PMEL management, and established their initial quality assurance and scheduling programs. Retiring from the Air Force after 24 years of service, Jay spent time working for Raytheon Middle East Systems as the Senior Metrologist for the Royal Saudi Air Defense Force PMEL in Jeddah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; and ten years as the Manager of Metrology Services for Promega Corporation. Jay joined Promega Corporation in 1997, where he developed and implemented all facets of an ISO 9001 and cGMP compliant program for their Metrology Department. He took them paperless in 1999, and wireless in 2005. His department was rated 'Best-In-Class' for three consecutive years during their annual quality system reviews; while supporting an inventory of 6,867 items, of which 3,669 items require calibration and/or preventive maintenance inspections, with a zero overdue calibration rate – with a total staff of only four. 
Jay is certified by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) as a Certified Calibration Technician (CCT), and is qualified as a Subject Matter Expert for writing and reviewing of the CCT exam during workshops held by ASQ. He is also a Senior Member of ASQ. He is an officer with the Measurement Quality Division (MQD) of ASQ, and is the managing editor and publisher of MQD’s quarterly newsletter, The Standard. 
Jay started the Madison Wisconsin section for the National Conference of Standards Laboratories (NCSL) International in 2000, was their first section coordinator for seven years, and is now the North Central Regional Coordinator. He has presented papers at NCSL International section, region, and international conferences. He has had his papers and articles published in NCSL International conference proceedings, as well as with the Measurement Science Conference (MSC), Cal Lab Magazine, The Standard, and Quality Progress (ASQ's monthly magazine). Jay is the editor and coauthor of the 2004 publication The Metrology Handbook. His publication, The Quality Calibration Handbook: Developing and Managing a Calibration Program, was published in November, 2006, and his latest book, Paperless Records – Designing and Creating Your Own Electronic Forms was published in June of 2007. 
Jay established his own consulting company, Bucherview Metrology Services in 2002, and has consulted for clients ranging from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to a third-party one-man calibration function. He has taught the requirements of calibration in a cGMP environment for the Madison Area Technical College, to include quality systems, traceability of measurements, uncertainty budgets, record maintenance and documentation, and compliance with 21CFR part 11. He is also an editorial advisor for Cal Lab Magazine. Jay lives in De Forest, Wisconsin with his wife, daughter, and two dogs.
 

WORKSHOP: Paperless Records – Designing and Creating Your Own Electronic Forms 
Jay L. Bucher 
Bucherview Metrology Services, LLC 
(Half-Day)
 

WORKHOP: Pipettes Calibration Technique 
Larry Newman 
Anmar Metrology, Inc. 
(Half-Day)

This seminar is beneficial for entry level to expert pipetting personnel, and companies that currently have added or are seeking to add pipette calibration to their metrology capabilities. 
Pipette calibration technicians often find that they cannot initially pass pipettes and sometimes they produce false failures. This occurs even with the advent of newer pipette calibration systems including multi-channel pipette calibration systems. 
Many factors can influence the proper calibration of pipettes such as; environmental, mechanical and technique, which has the largest effect on your calibration results. Most variables can be tightly controlled in the calibration lab; however technician technique can be the most variable and needs to be taught directly to the technician by someone of experience. This is something that cannot be taught by a procedure. Technician consistency is paramount to repeatable operation. The necessity of technician practice and development of proper pipetting practices and habits is absolute.  
This technical seminar will include the use of Pascal’s law, which is one of the most critical elements of proper pipette technician technique. We will prove Pascal’s law and several other physic related formulas as they relate to the proper calibration of pipettes. The seminar will devote equal time to the overview of a normally five-hour lecture titled “Practical Pipette Calibration” and to hands on training. Due to the common complaint of technicians related to Work Related Muscular Skeletal Disorders (WMSD’s), a strong emphasis on proper pipetting ergonomics will be included. An uncertainty budget for type B uncertainties will be discussed leading to an open round table discussion of pipette calibration sources of errors. 
The trainer has over fifteen years of hands-on experience of calibrating and repairing pipettes as well as over five years of experience in training technicians and users at many different companies. He will show attendees how to become successful at calibrating pipettes by demonstrating techniques such as; Pre-rinsing, Cool Hand, Ringing, and seven other highly recommended techniques related to the calibration of pipettes to produce correct dispensing volumes. 

For additional information: Larry Newman (858) 621-2630
email: larry@anmar.com
 

WORKHOP: Measurement Uncertainty Made Easy
Georgette Macdonald 
NRC, Canada
(Half-Day)