In today’s fast-changing business environment, organizations must adapt quickly, solve problems effectively, and continuously improve to stay competitive. Too often, teams jump to conclusions based on limited information, leading to costly mistakes.

The Toyota Kata Overview, taught at the Performance Instruction & Training (PIT) facility in NASCAR country, provides a unique, hands-on learning experience that connects Lean thinking with the fast-paced world of motorsports.

Participants take part in a pit crew simulation, analyzing performance, identifying improvement opportunities, and applying experimental problem-solving techniques. Through a combination of classroom instruction and team-based activities, the program introduces the principles of Improvement Kata and Coaching Kata—structured methods for developing scientific thinking, strengthening problem-solving skills and building a culture of continuous improvement.

What You’ll Learn

• How to apply experimental problem-solving techniques
• The fundamentals of Improvement Kata and Coaching Kata
• How teams use scientific thinking to achieve better results
• Strategies for building a culture of continuous improvement
• Program Experience
• Orientation to high-performance motorsports
• Hands-on pit crew simulation
• Lean and Toyota Kata instruction
• Team performance analysis and improvement cycles

Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026

8 a.m. – Greeting and Orientation
8:30 a.m. – Lean Performance U. Presentation (breakfast provided)
8:50 a.m. – Introduction to Kata
9:15 a.m. – Baseline PIT Stop
9:30 a.m. – Training Session: Improvement Kata and Coaching Kata
12:15 p.m. – Lunch (provided)
1 p.m. – Three PDCA Improvement/Experiment Cycles utilizing the PIT Stop Experience
4 p.m. Debrief training and next steps
4:30 p.m. – Depart PIT

Registration

Contact your regional manager.

Question?

Call Allison Godwin at 252.883.1729.

Who Should Participate

Whether you are in a leadership position (manager, supervisor, front-line team leader) or a key technical resource (engineer, technician), you are a great fit for kata training. Individuals who seek a unique perspective on problem solving and people involvement are encouraged to register.

Benefits

• Experience Lean principles in action
• Improve problem-solving and team performance
• Learn practical tools to drive continuous improvement