Implementing Total Quality Management at the Intermediate Level of Aircraft Maintenance

This thesis will show how Total Quality Management TQM can be taken from theory and operationalized at the intermediate level of aircraft maintenance. It begins by presenting four factors that will support the implementation process top level commitment in the form of CNO support, the closed loop environment of intermediate maintenance activities, the successful implementation at the depot level, and the fact that components of TQM already exist within the Navy. The thesis then introduced some of the resource centers that can assist with the implementation process. The methods of TQM implementation as advocated by Navy resource centers the Navy Personnel Research and Development Center and the Naval Aviation Maintenance Office are explored. The thesis illustrates how the use of these resource centers, the early targeting of key personnel, and the use of a pilot program can help facilitate the implementation process. An examination of the obstacles to the TQM implementation process such as adapting existing programs and reward systems, conclude the thesis.