KOKOMO, IN-Chrysler LLC’s Indiana Transmission Plant II (ITP II), located in Kokomo, IN, has been awarded the 2008-2009 Shingo Silver Medallion for operational excellence.

The Shingo Prize for Operational Excellence, established in 1988, recognizes business excellence in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The philosophy of the Shingo Prize is that world-class performance for quality, cost and delivery can be achieved through lean principles and techniques in core manufacturing and business processes.

“We were all impressed with ITP II’s grasp of lean principles and tools, and the ability to identify and develop improvements while motivating the workforce,” said the Shingo committee in informing the ITP II management and staff of the award. “The cumulative result of the continuous improvement activity at ITP II has been to remain competitive in a significant downturn in the market.”

The Shingo awards will be presented during the 21st Annual Shingo Prize for Operational Excellence Conference in Nashville, TN, May 3 to 5, 2009.

“On behalf of the ITP II team and all of Chrysler manufacturing, we are pleased and proud to be recognized by the Shingo committee,” says Frank J. Ewasyshyn, executive vice president, manufacturing, Chrysler LLC.

Opened in 2003, ITP II produces the W5A580 five-speed transmission that is used in the Chrysler 300, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Commander, as well as in the Dodge Nitro, Challenger and Charger.