This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Course Outline
Day 1
Overview of the root cause analysis (RCA)
- Elements of the RCA 6-step process
- Definition and benefits of RCA
- Key tasks for organizing a successful RCA event
- Defining roles and responsibilities
- Process for identifying and selecting an RCA event
Overview of RCA tools and workshop activities
- 5 Why
- Fishbone Diagram (Ishikawa Diagram)
Day 2
Overview of RCA tools and workshop activities
- Design and Application Review
- Sequence of events
- Fault tree analysis
- Change analysis
Review tools for managing RCA event and sustaining improvements
- Project Charter
- A3 Report
- Audits
Course Schedule
Registration Date/Time:
9/17/2025 7:30am Central Time
Event Dates/Times:
- 9/17/2025 8:00am - 4:30pm Central Time
- 9/18/2025 8:00am - 4:30pm Central Time
Location and Lodging
Course Location
Lodging
Room: rates start at $170
Reserve by: August 13, 2025
Accommodations include: All reservations include hot breakfast buffet, fitness center, business center, convenient on-site parking. Guest rooms are complete with Keurig Coffee Makers, refrigerators, and complimentary high speed internet.
Course Notes
This is a HyFlex (in-person and online) taught course. Your registration is for one teaching platform only: in-person or online. Please be prepared to attend all days either in-person or online. Contact us if you have any questions before registering.
This course uses the Canvas course management and Zoom platforms. A UW NetID is required to access the online course site. Both in-person and online students should obtain a NetID and access the Canvas course website. Your registration confirmation email will walk you through the NetID process and how to access Canvas.
All materials for this course are digital and will be available on the Canvas course website. Access to the course materials and the webinar platform will be provided a few days before the course. Please watch the email address you provided during registration for release dates and pre-course information. Check your spam file if you do not see emails from the "wisc.edu" addresses.
Instructor and Program Director
Instructor
George Williams
CEO
George is the founder and CEO of ReliabilityX and a recognized leader in the field of maintenance and reliability. He holds a master’s degree in reliability engineering from Monash University and began his career in maintenance while still in high school, working alongside his father. George spent 16 years with a major pharmaceutical company, advancing from technician to global asset management leader. His team earned the prestigious Uptime Award for Best Maintenance and Reliability Program in 2015. A Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) and Certified Reliability Leader, George was named CMRP of the Year by the Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals in 2016. He also holds certifications in vibration analysis, infrared thermography, ultrasound, motion amplification, and plant maintenance management. A published author and experienced educator, George has been teaching maintenance and reliability courses for UW–Madison Interdisciplinary Professional Programs since 2010.
Program Director
Jon Wellik
Additional Information
This course is part of the Maintenance and Reliability Management Certificate, Technical Leadership Certificate and Manufacturing Excellence Certificate. Course may be taken individually as well.