Elevate Solutions Group:
Treating Customers as Partners Drives Rapid Growth

One of the Fastest Growing Companies in Georgia

Elevate Solutions Group, LLC recently received a Georgia Fast 40 Award for being the 9th fastest lower middle market company in Georgia. ACG Atlanta (The Association for Corporate Growth) held a celebration on June 12th where the company was recognized for its outstanding growth.

But customers and employees did not need a formal ceremony to appreciate the company’s success. In the past 12 months, the contract manufacturer specializing in plastic injection molding, assembly, and 3PL has hired more than 125 employees to keep up with demand. Its family of injection molding presses grew from 12 to more than 30 and its manufacturing, assembly and warehousing footprint swelled from 160,000 square feet to more than 243,000.

Customers Treated Like Partners

Elevate Solutions Group’s management team shares a simple philosophy about how it does business with its customers. As part of its stated mission, employees strive to understand a customer’s personal and business goals while taking ownership to solve problems and plan aggressively. In some cases, problem solving may mean investing in people or technology to help the customer achieve his/her desired outcome. Ideally, those outcomes will have the opportunity to result in a market advantage which ultimately leads to mutual growth and success.

When customers face manufacturing challenges but know they are being respected as partners, a different dynamic is formed. Both sides are making commitments and honoring them is critical. It is the kind of thinking and participation that has led to Elevate Solutions winning opportunities that other suppliers may have passed on.

ISO 9001 is Foundational

“There is accountability in producing precision plastic parts by injection molding for our customers. ISO 9001:2015 certification standards established through PJR are 100% embedded in our QMS (Quality Management System). Our manufacturing solutions are designed to help customers meet or exceed these standards. This kind of engagement is a competitive advantage everyone benefits from,” says Chris Gardner, VP of Sales and Marketing.

Case Study: Value Added Services and Partnership Opportunities Accelerate Growth

Plas-Fit of Israel spent more than two years carefully evaluating partner options to meet their need to ramp up domestic manufacturing to serve the US Market. In late October 2024, they found Elevate through an online search and shared the scope of their vision.

As the scope of the program became evident, both teams laid out aggressive investments and timelines that would include shipping dozens of molds and testing equipment from overseas to Elevate’s advanced manufacturing facility. With part volumes forecasted in the millions, it was evident that a family of dedicated presses across multiple shifts would be required to meet the demand.

Mike Shippel, Founder and CEO, said “Our growth over the last five years has been strong, but this new business meant staffing up, adding new shifts, expanding our Quality Lab and Tool Crib facilities, and most importantly purchasing 18 new injection molding machines, six of which would need to be installed, calibrated, and operational in less than 60 days.”

Plas-Fit sent key personnel from Israel to work with the team at Elevate and transfer knowledge about their processes and product line. There was an immediate sense of partnership and commitment to build a robust quality system and processes that would support the efforts. Audits by Plas-Fit and their own customers proved that everything was working.

“It has been amazing to see such progress happen in such a condensed period. Our complex needs and high standards required a company of a certain size, a location that was ideally suited for our customers, a skill set and technology base that was reliable and most of all, people that we could work with, trust, and rely on. Elevate Solutions checked all those boxes and more. We look forward to a long and fruitful relationship for both parties,” said Kobe Friedrich, Plas-Fit Owner and CEO.

Elevate Solutions Group is a privately held contract manufacturer specializing in plastic injection molding. Strategically located in Austell, Georgia, we add value with expertise in design, engineering, assembly, kitting, and 3PL services.

Elevate’s 240,000+ sq. ft. of facilities house 30+ advanced injection molding machines (80–950T) and more than 10,000 pallet positions of finished goods, serving industry sectors like Medical, Telecommunications, and Consumer Goods.

With 250+ employees, ISO 9001 certification, FDA registration, and a robust quality system, Elevate is uniquely qualified to support re-shoring and near-shoring opportunities. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and efficiency positions us as a trusted partner with some of the world’s most recognized brands.

Elevate Solutions Group
www.esgworks.com

For more information:
[email protected]

In today’s fast-moving world, customers expect reliable products and services. To meet customer and regulatory demands, businesses must build systems that ensure consistency, quality, and improvement. That’s where quality assurance and the ISO 9001 certification come in.

By using a Quality Management System (QMS), your company can improve operations, build customer trust, and achieve better results.

What Is a Quality Management System?

A QMS is a set of organized business processes. It helps your company provide products and services that meet customers’ needs. This system works for companies of all sizes and industries. It helps you provide consistent results and improves customer satisfaction over time.

The most recognized standard for QMS is part of the ISO 9000 family. It gives you a clear, step-by-step way to meet the requirements of ISO 9001.

What Does Certification Mean?

A certification body, like Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc., checks your system. They confirm that your business meets ISO 9001 requirements. This independent audit confirms your commitment to quality assurance, customer focus, and continual improvement.

Certification shows your customers and partners that your company takes quality seriously.

Why Certification Helps Your Business

Getting certified offers many real benefits:

• Improve efficiency – Streamline operations and reduce waste
• Enhance customer satisfaction – Deliver what your customers expect
• Reduce risks – Prevent issues before they affect your business
• Build trust – Show your commitment to consistent, high-quality results
• Stand out – Gain a competitive edge in your industry

Key Principles of a Strong QMS

A great QMS relies on seven main principles:

1. Customer Focus – Understand and meet customer needs
2. Top Management – Lead with a clear vision and direction
3. People Involvement – Engage employees at every level
4. Process Approach – Create efficient, repeatable business processes
5. Continual Improvement – Always look for ways to do better
6. Evidence-Based Decisions – Use data to guide actions
7. Relationship Management – Build strong connections with partners and suppliers

These ideas help your business grow and deliver better products and services consistently.

What You Need to Get Certified

To earn certification, your company should:

• Implement a quality management system with clear steps
• Set and track measurable quality objectives
• Perform regular internal audits to check progress
• Plan for risk and opportunities
• Show ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and outcomes
• Involve top management in driving improvement

Using Technology to Support Quality

You don’t need special software to comply with ISO, but digital tools can help. These tools improve operations efficiency and simplify your QMS:

• Document control systems
• Performance dashboards
• Internal audit and compliance software

These systems help with identifying areas for improvement and keeping your QMS on track.

Works in Every Industry

Quality systems like ISO 9001 are used in:

• Manufacturing
• Healthcare
• Technology
• Logistics
• Service industries

No matter your field, a well-run QMS helps you meet customer requirements and deliver quality.

ISO 9001:2015 – What’s New?

The current version, ISO 9001:2015, focuses on:

• Stronger top management involvement
• Better risk management
• Aligning quality efforts with overall business goals

Staying up to date helps you maintain global credibility and continuous improvement.

Steps to Get Certified

Follow these steps to earn your quality certification:

1. Learn the requirements of ISO 9001
2. Implement a quality management system
3. Conduct regular internal audits
4. Schedule a review with a trusted certification body
5. Use results to improve and grow

Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. supports your business through every stage—from planning to certification.

Do you want additional information? View our white paper here!

Are you ready to start?

Certification helps you build trust, improve performance, and grow stronger in your industry.

Contact Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. today for a free quote today!

Let us guide you on your path to quality assurance and long-term success by getting ISO 9001 certified!

When your organization implements an ISO management system – such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO/IEC 27001, or others – the next logical step is certification. Certification not only validates that your organization complies with the standard, but also enhances your reputation with customers, partners, and regulatory bodies.

But how do you choose the right certification body to guide you through this important milestone?

Why the Certification Body You Choose Matters

Certification bodies, like Perry Johnson Registrars, Inc. (PJR), are independent third parties responsible for evaluating your management system and issuing your certification. While many organizations are tempted to base this decision on price alone, doing so can come at the cost of credibility, industry-specific experience, and long-term value.

The right certification body does more than verify compliance – they act as a partner that supports your continuous improvement journey.

Key Factors to Consider

Here are several important elements to consider when selecting your certification body:

• Reputation: Choose a certification body that is respected in your industry. A strong reputation lends credibility to your certification and reinforces trust with clients.
• Accreditation: Confirm that the certification body is accredited by a nationally or internationally recognized accreditation body (e.g., ANAB in the U.S. or UKAS in the U.K.). Accreditation ensures that the certification body operates according to internationally accepted standards.
• Specialization: Look for a body with auditors experienced in your industry. This ensures audits are more relevant, efficient, and insightful.
• Auditor Experience: Experienced auditors can provide valuable insights during the audit process. Don’t hesitate to request information about the auditor’s qualifications and industry experience.
• Integrated Audit Capabilities: If you plan to certify multiple standards (e.g., ISO 9001 and ISO 14001), consider a certification body that offers integrated audits. This approach reduces audit time, cost, and complexity.
• Geographic Proximity and Flexibility: A local auditor reduces travel-related constraints and allows for greater flexibility in scheduling.
• Language Capabilities: Ensure auditors are fluent in your organization’s primary language for smoother communication and document review.
• System Maturity Requirements: Some certification bodies have specific expectations regarding how developed a management system must be prior to certification. Clarify these requirements early.
• Included Services: When comparing quotes, check whether items like travel costs or document reviews are included in the total fee.

Start by defining what you want from certification – whether it’s market access, customer trust, or internal improvements. Research certification bodies used by your competitors or clients. Reach out early in your implementation process to gather quotes and evaluate the added value each body can provide.

Remember, your certification body should be a partner – not just a service provider.

Why Choose PJR?

At Perry Johnson Registrars, we understand that certification is about more than checking boxes – it’s about building credibility, improving systems, and opening doors. Here’s why organizations around the globe choose PJR:

• Globally Recognized Accreditation: PJR is accredited by ANAB and other internationally respected bodies, ensuring your certification is accepted worldwide.
• Industry-Specific Expertise: Our auditors bring deep experience across a wide range of sectors, from manufacturing and information security to healthcare and aerospace.
• Integrated Audit Services: We offer integrated audits for clients seeking certification to multiple standards, saving time and resources.
• Global Reach, Local Presence: With auditors based around the world, we provide local expertise and flexibility – no need to fly auditors in from abroad.
• Commitment to Continuous Improvement: PJR auditors don’t just evaluate compliance – they share insights that help organizations continually improve their systems.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Our team works with you from the start to understand your goals, answer your questions, and tailor the process to meet your needs.

Partner with PJR and take your management system to the next level—with confidence, credibility, and a team that’s with you every step of the way. For more information, contact us today at (248) 358-3388 or send a request to [email protected] to speak to a Project Manager in your area!

Manufacturers struggling to balance efficiency and the aerospace industry’s stringent regulatory and safety standards may find AI can help them achieve their goals. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can assist in optimizing production efficiency while adhering to the strict quality and safety industry standards.

• AI-Driven Process Optimization: By analyzing historical designs, procurement data, and manufacturing processes, AI identifies inefficiencies and uncovers cost-saving opportunities. This enables manufacturers to make data-driven decisions that optimize supply chain logistics, reduce unnecessary inventory, and prevent costly mistakes.
• Focus on Non-Critical Components: Non-critical components, which comprise approximately 80% of an aircraft’s structure, are ideal targets for cost-reduction strategies. AI tools can streamline the production of these parts, minimizing material waste and reducing the need for custom fabrication.
• Advanced Manufacturing Analytics: AI-powered solutions offer new optimization possibilities through advanced manufacturing analytics and metrology integration. These technologies enable manufacturers to make smarter decisions, automate repetitive tasks, and reduce waste without compromising quality.
• Standardization of Components: AI tools can identify commonalities among parts, enabling manufacturers to consolidate designs and reduce variability. This streamlining lowers production costs by reducing the need for unique tooling and materials for each part.
• Supply Chain Optimization: AI enhances supply chain efficiency by improving transparency and coordination. Predictive analytics for demand forecasting and real-time tracking of materials reduce waste, enhance supplier relationships, and ensure timely delivery of critical components.
• Enhanced Metrology Accuracy: AI-driven metrology tools analyze measurement data in real-time, identifying discrepancies and enabling rapid adjustments to maintain specifications. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and enhances overall manufacturing efficiency.
• Value Analysis and Value Engineering (VAVE): AI facilitates VAVE methodologies by scrutinizing each component’s function and cost to determine opportunities for redesign or material substitution. This approach helps manufacturers achieve cost reductions without compromising performance or reliability.
• Ensuring Compliance: AI solutions support regulatory compliance by offering precision and consistency in analyses. They can simulate the performance of redesigned components under various conditions, ensuring that cost-saving measures do not compromise the aircraft’s integrity or safety.

By integrating AI into their operations, aerospace manufacturers can achieve meaningful cost savings while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. To explore how aerospace (AS 91xx) or AI (ISO 42001) certification can benefit your organization, contact our project managers at [email protected] for more information.

In the automotive industry, adherence to ethical standards is not just a legal obligation but a cornerstone of sustainable business practice. The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), enacted in 1977, serves as a global benchmark in combating bribery and corruption. Despite its longstanding presence, some executives express concerns about the complexities of compliance. However, as highlighted in a recent Industry Week article, the emphasis should be on unwavering adherence rather than apprehension.

The article underscores that ethical behavior transcends mere legal compliance; it fosters a positive corporate reputation, enhances customer loyalty, and cultivates a constructive work environment. Companies like Toyota have experienced firsthand the repercussions of ethical lapses, facing significant production setbacks due to scandals involving emission certifications and recalls.

For auto suppliers, implementing a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery is paramount. This involves establishing a comprehensive code of ethics, conducting regular audits, and ensuring transparent communication across all organizational levels. Such proactive measures not only mitigate legal risks but also contribute to long-term business viability.

In today’s global market, ethical compliance is integral to a company’s success and reputation. Auto suppliers must prioritize ethical practices to navigate the complexities of international business effectively.

For further guidance on establishing robust ethical compliance frameworks, please contact our project managers at [email protected].

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, Environment, Health, Safety, and Sustainability (EHS&S) professionals are stepping beyond traditional compliance roles to become pivotal drivers of corporate sustainability and competitiveness. Nicole Wilkinson, executive director of corporate health, safety, and environment at CVS Health and the newly appointed chair of the National Association for Environment, Health & Safety, and Sustainability Management (NAEM), emphasizes this shift. She notes that EHS&S professionals are not only reporting progress to their companies’ boards but are also actively participating in board discussions, guiding corporate strategies, and enhancing business resilience

One significant area where EHS&S professionals are making an impact is in promoting total worker health and wellness. Beyond ensuring physical safety, they are implementing programs that address overall health, including mindfulness, fitness, and stress management initiatives. Collaborations with human resources departments have led to recognition programs that foster a safety-first culture. By creating psychologically safe environments, organizations encourage open communication, leading to improved employee engagement and safer outcomes.

Another critical focus is the prevention and management of workplace violence. In response to increasing risks, EHS&S professionals are developing code of conduct policies and de-escalation training programs. These initiatives are essential in cultivating safe work environments and addressing emerging state-level regulations.

Furthermore, EHS&S professionals are leveraging advanced software management solutions and technology applications to deliver value. By utilizing sophisticated metrics and dashboards, they assist operational partners in tracking compliance, achieving operational excellence, and promoting a robust EHS culture. Management Information Systems have become critical tools in meeting both internal and external reporting requirements, reflecting the profession’s evolution in the digital age.

This expanded role of EHS&S professionals underscores the importance of integrating sustainability into core business strategies. By moving beyond mere compliance, organizations can enhance competitiveness, foster employee well-being, and contribute positively to environmental and societal goals. For businesses aiming to align with these evolving standards and achieve recognized certifications, engaging with experienced certification bodies is a crucial step. To explore how your organization can benefit from such certifications, contact our project managers at [email protected] for more information.

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) has become integral to various sectors, enhancing efficiency and innovation. However, this rapid integration brings forth ethical considerations that necessitate a framework for responsible AI development and deployment. Responsible AI refers to the practice of designing and utilizing AI systems in ways that align with societal values, ensuring benefits while minimizing potential negative consequences. This encompasses addressing issues such as bias, transparency, and privacy, aiming to create trustworthy AI systems that are reliable, fair, and aligned with human values.

To navigate these ethical challenges, international standards play a pivotal role. The ISO/IEC 42001 standard, introduced over a year ago, serves as a global AI management framework assisting organizations in managing AI responsibly. It balances innovation with governance, guiding entities to handle AI’s risks and opportunities effectively. Adherence to such standards not only prepares organizations for future regulations but also emphasizes fundamentals like robust data management and comprehensive risk assessment.

The development of these standards is overseen by committees such as the ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 42, dedicated to artificial intelligence. Established in 2018, this subcommittee focuses on creating international standards, technical reports, and specifications within the AI domain. Their work ensures a cohesive approach to AI ethics, addressing challenges like data quality, bias, and risk management.

For organizations aiming to integrate AI responsibly, aligning with these standards is crucial. Certification not only demonstrates a commitment to ethical practices but also builds trust among stakeholders and clients. Perry Johnson Registrars offers expertise in guiding businesses through the certification process, ensuring adherence to these international standards. Working with PJR can help your organization navigate the complexities of AI ethics, fostering responsible innovation and sustainable growth.

For more information on becoming certified and aligning your AI practices with international standards, please contact our project managers at [email protected].