Management Team

Karen Fite directs GaMEP as well as other Georgia Tech-based programs serving manufacturers. She is responsible for connecting businesses, manufacturers, and communities to Georgia Tech’s extensive innovation and technology services, which are designed to elevate their competitive position and economic

Tim Israel oversees GaMEP’s efforts to help organizations reduce waste, improve manufacturing operations, and implement quality systems. He also manages our teams of lean- and quality-project managers located around the state.

Expertise: Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Quality Management Systems.

Education: M.S. and

Bill Meffert oversees the development, transfer, and adoption of energy and environmental best practices and innovations in industry and commercial buildings.

Expertise: Energy Management, Industrial Energy Efficiency, Water Conservation, ISO 50001, Culture Change, Energy Systems, Process Optimization.

Education: M.S. and BME in

Don Pital and his team train and coach companies on innovative techniques for organizational sales growth and innovation-process management strategies.

Expertise: Business Transition, Innovation, Product Development, Project Management, Cybersecurity.

Education: M.S. and B.S. in Ceramic Engineering from Georgia Tech. Certified Business Growth

Katie Takacs oversees the outreach efforts of GaMEP and the operational structure supporting GaMEP’s reporting and administrative functions.

Expertise: Marketing, Project Management, Social Media, Business Development.

Education: MBA from Nova Southeastern University, B.S. in Business Administration and Marketing from the University of

Derek Woodham helps companies in his region improve their operations while also connecting them to additional resources at GaMEP, Georgia Tech, and partner organizations.

Expertise: Lean Enterprise, Six Sigma, Plant Layout and Design, Innovation, Leadership Development, Problem Solving.

Education: MBA from LaGrange