NASA quality professionals now have access to a newly developed AS9100 Lead Auditor training course. This course is designed to provide learners with an in-depth understanding of the AS9100 Quality Management Systems – Requirements for Aviation, Space, and Defense Organizations, and how to interpret, apply, and audit this standard within the NASA environment.

In this course, quality professionals will learn how to:

• Differentiate between ISO 9001 and AS9100
• Describe the principles and concepts of AS9100 and its role in aerospace quality management systems
• Apply auditing principles, techniques and best practices
• Plan, conduct and report on AS9100 audits effectively
• Assemble a highly qualified audit team
• Lead audit teams with effective communication and coordination
• Interpret and apply AS9100 requirements in real-world audit scenarios
• Recognize and address common challenges in aerospace quality management systems

Course Content and Structure

The training begins by introducing international quality management standards and delving into the purpose, requirements and benefits of AS9100. It then progresses through step-by-step modules covering:

• Pre-audit activities
• Executing the audit
• Handling nonconformances
• Closing an audit
• Audit follow-up activities

Participants receive detailed guidance on presenting audit findings during closing meetings and the proper procedures for forwarding audit reports to auditees. Short interviews with experienced lead auditors further enrich the material, providing expert insights and practical examples.

Practical Scenarios and Interactive Learning

Interactive exercises and realistic scenarios simulate real-world audit environments, enabling participants to apply their learning effectively. Key scenarios include:

• Auditing a large electronic assembly facility
• Assessing a small fabrication facility
• Evaluating organizational context and QMS scope
• Reviewing material procurement and purchasing requirements flow-down
• Assessing supply chain risks at a NASA Center

Access and Further Information

This Lead Auditor training is available through the System for Administration, Training, and Educational Resources for NASA (SATERN). The course consists of five interactive modules, complete with knowledge checks and a final exam.

For more details, contact Quality Engineering Technical Discipline Lead Don Brandl.