Panel Discussion
Join us as we have a candid panel discussion with talented Lean Leaders! In this Paul Critchley-moderated panel discussion, panelists Tom Lencki, Elisabeth Swan and April Thomas will highlight their professional ups and downs as they share significant experiences that shaped them in their Lean careers. They will share their insights and real-life experiences, and share with us significant experiences that shaped them as a Lean leader. You WON’T want to miss this one!
About Panel of Lean Leaders!
Tom Lencki’s Lean journey began as a Trooper with the New Hampshire State Police, where he developed a problem-solving mindset and a passion for process improvement. After retiring from the State Police, he joined the USNH Lean Team, teaching Lean at all levels to faculty and staff and helping to grow and foster a strong Lean culture across the University System of New Hampshire. Now a Process Optimization Expert at Coverys, Tom applies Lean methodologies to streamline workflows, drive efficiency, and support continuous improvement. Tom is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and Lean Master Black Belt, he is dedicated to empowering teams and driving sustainable change.
April Thomas is a people-focused leader and Lean Six Sigma expert dedicated to creating high-performing, engaged workplaces. She specializes in strategic planning, process improvement, and team development. Passionate about fostering psychological safety and continuous improvement, April integrates empathy and data-driven strategies to drive sustainable change. As Certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor and Grief Educator, she also champions wellness in the workplace. An active nonprofit leader, April serves in key roles with ASQ, AME, Peninsula ASAP, and Colonial Behavioral Health. Her mission: empower people and organizations to reach their full potential.
Elisabeth Swan is a leadership coach, keynote speaker, President of Swan Consulting & Associates, Inc., and co-founder of the Just-in-Time Cafe, dedicated to helping organizations embrace conscious leadership and continuous improvement. With decades of experience guiding Fortune 100 companies and nonprofits, she’s helped leaders break free from outdated models to foster collaboration, adaptability, and trust. A former improv performer, Elisabeth knows leadership isn’t about control—it’s about listening, adapting, and co-creating. She brings these lessons to her work as an award-winning author (Picture Yourself a Leader), educator (UC San Diego, UC Davis, University of Denver), and trusted advisor. Elisabeth empowers leaders to uncover blind spots, experiment with new behaviors, and create lasting change—fueling both personal and organizational success.
