Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Training

Omnex offers specialized CQI training based on AIAG's Special Process Assessments to help organizations meet customer-specific requirements from OEMs like Ford, FCA (Stellantis), and GM.

This training supports IATF 16949 Clause 9.2.2.3, helping organizations improve their internal audit readiness, ensure supplier process capability, and maintain conformance with Customer-Specific Requirements (CSRs).

Note: Omnex also offers CQI Certification Audits for CQI-9, CQI-11, CQI-12, and CQI-15 for organizations looking for third-party verification.

Meeting OEM Expectations Starts with CQI

• Required by major OEMs as part of IATF 16949 compliance
• Ensures process-specific manufacturing audits are conducted effectively
• Helps reduce risks, improve product quality, and support supply chain maturity
• Audits must be performed annually and after any process or equipment change
• Supports both internal performance and external customer confidence

OEM-Specific CQI Requirements

Ford

• CQI-9: Mandatory for all heat-treated products and services
• Assessment must include:
  • AIAG CQI-9: Heat Treat System Assessment
  • Ford-Specific CQI-9 Requirements
• Assessments must be:
  • Conducted at all tier levels
  • Updated annually and uploaded to GSDB Online
  • Maintained with two prior years' records
• Also references:
  • CQI-8: Layered Process Audits
  • CQI-19: Sub-tier Supplier Management
• Heat-treated components must also comply with WSS-M99A3-A material specifications

FCA (Stellantis)

• Mandatory use of:
  • CQI-8: Layered Process Audits
  • CQI-19: Sub-tier Supplier Management
• Required assessments for special processes:
  • CQI-9
  • CQI-11
  • CQI-12
  • CQI-15
  • CQI-17
  • CQI-23
• Evaluation must include:
  • Auditor qualification
  • Self-assessment scheduling
  • Action tracking & record retention
  • Integration with supplier development process
• CQI-14: Required under Warranty Management Systems

GM

• Requires annual audits for process-specific areas using the latest CQI versions:
  • CQI-9
  • CQI-11
  • CQI-12
  • CQI-17
  • CQI-23
• Organizations must show evidence of:
  • Completed self-assessments
  • Effective corrective actions
  • Documented audit results

CQI Standards Covered in Training

Each session is designed as a focused (typically 1-day) training module that aligns with AIAG guidelines and OEM expectations:

• CQI-8 – Layered Process Audits
• CQI-9 – Heat Treat System Assessment
• CQI-11 – Plating System Assessment
• CQI-12 – Coating System Assessment
• CQI-14 – Automotive Warranty Management
• CQI-15 – Welding System Assessment
• CQI-17 – Soldering System Assessment
• CQI-19 – Sub-tier Supplier Management
• CQI-23 – Molding System Assessment
• CQI-25 / CQI-26 – Statistical Process Control (SPC)

Training can be combined with post-training certification support for CQI-9, 11, 12, and 15. Contact us to know more.

Who Should Attend?

• Quality Managers & Engineers
• Internal Auditors
• Supplier Quality and Development Teams
• Tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers to Ford, Stellantis, GM, and other OEMs
• Any organization undergoing IATF 16949 certification with special processes in scope

Training Format

• Virtual or Classroom-based instructor-led delivery
• In-house customization available for corporate groups
• Delivered by CQI practitioners with real-world audit experience
• Includes AIAG methodology, OEM interpretation, and sample audit checklists
• Participants receive a certificate of completion

Key Takeaways

• Interpret and implement AIAG CQI guidelines
• Conduct effective self-assessments and internal audits
• Align internal practices with OEM expectations
• Prepare for third-party CQI audits or certification
• Strengthen supplier oversight and risk reduction

Need CQI Certification?

Omnex offers CQI certification audits for Heat Treating, Plating, Coating, and Welding. Learn more → CQI Certification Services