Ryan Popilchak, P.Eng, MBA
About Ryan Popilchak, P.Eng, MBA
Ryan Popilchak, P.Eng, MBA, serves as the General Manager for the Western Region at Cascades, where he has worked since 2019. He has extensive experience in manufacturing and operational management, having held various leadership roles at companies such as Maple Leaf Foods and CertainTeed Corporation.
Current Role at Cascades
Ryan Popilchak serves as the General Manager for the Western Region at Cascades, a position he has held since 2019. In this role, he operates from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, overseeing various aspects of the company's operations in the region. His responsibilities include driving operational excellence and fostering a collaborative team environment.
Previous Experience in Manufacturing Management
Prior to his current role, Ryan Popilchak held several management positions in the manufacturing sector. He worked at Maple Leaf Foods as a Production Manager and General Supervisor, where he gained valuable experience in production processes. He also served as a Six Sigma Black Belt, focusing on process improvement initiatives. At CertainTeed Corporation, he was a Continuous Improvement Manager and later a Plant Manager, further enhancing his expertise in manufacturing operations.
Educational Background
Ryan Popilchak earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Calgary, completing his studies from 1995 to 2000. He later pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Manitoba, studying from 2003 to 2006. His educational background provides a solid foundation for his career in engineering and management.
Skills and Expertise
Ryan possesses strong skills in statistical analysis and root cause analysis, which he applies in industrial engineering contexts. He emphasizes the importance of transparent team environments to foster collaboration and trust. Additionally, he integrates Lean principles and Six Sigma methodology to enhance manufacturing processes, focusing on building self-managed work teams to improve productivity and employee engagement.
Career Progression
Ryan Popilchak has a diverse career trajectory in the manufacturing industry. He began as a Manufacturing Engineer at Nortel Networks and progressed through various roles, including Plant Manager at ECCO Recycling and Energy Corp. His experience spans multiple organizations and positions, allowing him to develop a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing operations and management.