Traci Zabko: A Career of Leadership in Automotive Production Control
In the fast-paced world of automotive manufacturing, production control plays a pivotal role in ensuring everything runs smoothly, from scheduling and logistics to shipping and customer service. One of the most accomplished figures in this space is Traci Zabko, who has over 17 years of experience in production control, logistics, and customer service.
Early Beginnings in Production Control
Traci Zabko’s journey in the automotive manufacturing industry began in November 2006 when she started as a Shipping and Receiving Supervisor at Dura Automotive Systems LLC, a well-known supplier in the automotive industry. She supervised all shipping and receiving functions, handled customer portal communications, and ensured seamless coordination with third-party logistics (3PL) providers. Her role involved critical decision-making and hands-on involvement in day-to-day operations, which paved the way for her future success.
At Dura Automotive, Traci developed a reputation for managing complex logistics and ensuring timely deliveries, helping the company maintain its position as a reliable supplier to automotive giants.
Rising Through the Ranks: Production Control Supervisor
In her subsequent role as Production Control Supervisor, Traci continued to demonstrate her expertise in scheduling, logistics, and production management. She was responsible for managing outside processing services and ensuring that production schedules aligned with customer demands. This role expanded her influence within the company and solidified her expertise in production control, a field where precision and efficiency are paramount.
Over time, Traci’s ability to manage outside processing services and schedule production accurately ensured that Dura Automotive remained a top player in the competitive automotive market. Her key responsibilities included production scheduling, OSP scheduling, logistics coordination, shipping, receiving, and customer service.
Transition to Plasman: A Broader Role
With the acquisition of Dura Automotive’s Exterior Trim Division by Plasman, a global leader in automotive solutions, Traci Zabko transitioned to a new role while continuing her duties as a Production Control Supervisor at the Lawrenceburg, Tennessee facility. Plasman’s acquisition allowed her to take on a broader role, now overseeing production control for a company that spans 21 manufacturing sites worldwide.
At Plasman, Traci’s responsibilities include managing production schedules for critical customers like Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. Her expertise in OSP scheduling, logistics, and customer service is instrumental in ensuring that Plasman continues to provide top-tier automotive solutions, particularly in window assemblies, door frames, and roof rail systems.
The Importance of Production Control in Automotive Manufacturing
Production control is the backbone of successful manufacturing operations in the highly competitive automotive industry. It involves planning and coordinating all aspects of production to ensure that products are manufactured on time, in the right quantities, and to the highest quality standards. Production control professionals like Traci Zabko are crucial in optimizing resources, reducing lead times, and meeting customer demands while focusing on cost efficiency.
At the core of production control is the need to synchronize various supply chain elements, including material sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution. By managing these processes effectively, production control supervisors ensure that the final product reaches customers promptly, contributing to customer satisfaction and long-term business success.
Skills and Expertise: What Sets Traci Zabko Apart
Traci Zabko’s long tenure in the industry has equipped her with a unique set of skills that make her an invaluable asset to any manufacturing operation. These skills include:
- Production Scheduling: Ensuring that production lines operate efficiently, with minimal downtime, and that all materials are available when needed.
- OSP Scheduling: Coordinating with outside service providers to ensure that outsourced processes, such as painting or machining, are completed on time and meet quality standards.
- Logistics Management: Overseeing the movement of materials and products within the factory and the supply chain to ensure timely deliveries.
- Customer Service: Managing communications with customers to ensure their needs are met and any issues are addressed promptly.
- Leadership: Traci has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing teams, improving processes, and driving continuous improvement initiatives within her organization.
The Future of Automotive Manufacturing: Adapting to New Challenges
Production control professionals like Traci Zabko will face new challenges and opportunities as the automotive industry evolves. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technologies, manufacturers must adapt their production processes to accommodate new materials, technologies, and customer demands.
One of the critical challenges in the coming years will be integrating sustainable practices into production control. Automotive companies are under increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint and minimize waste, requiring new production scheduling, logistics, and supply chain management approaches.
Additionally, automation and digitalization advances are transforming how manufacturing operations are managed. Production control supervisors must stay ahead of these trends by adopting new technologies for greater flexibility, efficiency, and transparency in production processes.
Traci Zabko’s Legacy in Production Control
Over her 18-year career, Traci Zabko has made significant contributions to the automotive manufacturing industry. Her leadership in production control, logistics, and customer service has helped her employers stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry. As she continues to lead production control at Plasman, Traci’s experience and expertise will be invaluable in navigating the challenges and opportunities for the automotive sector.
With a proven track record of success, Traci Zabko is a role model for aspiring production control professionals, demonstrating the importance of precision, efficiency, and adaptability in today’s manufacturing environment.
Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of Effective Production Control
In conclusion, the role of a production control supervisor is critical to the success of any manufacturing operation, particularly in the automotive industry, where precision and efficiency are key. Traci Zabko’s career serves as a testament to the impact that skilled production control professionals can have on the success of their organizations. Her work at Dura Automotive Systems LLC and Plasman highlights the importance of effective production scheduling, logistics management, and customer service in maintaining a competitive edge in the global automotive market.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, professionals like Traci Zabko will play a crucial role in ensuring that manufacturers can meet future challenges, from adapting to new technologies to implementing more sustainable practices.
