As Karen contemplated the land of IR and the experiences she would have, she wondered what new ideas and technologies awaited her. Most of all she wondered WHO would be there as experts along the path to add insight into the journey from being LOST in an unfamiliar world of IR (Lean Manufacturing) to finding ways to be the guide for others on this pathway.  She hoped to add an arsenal of new colleagues with expertise, experience, and shared enthusiasm.  She also wanted to gain real world knowledge and career information related to being successful in IR and LEAN Manufacturing.  This knowledge she would share with the Munchkins (kids) when she returned home (WEMS).  She would also collaborate with others like herself who were seeking to empower the next generations of adventurers on their journeys to enlightenment and empowerment.  The story continues…