Standards, Audits, and Intuition: Bud Weightman's 35-Year Journey in Quality Management | Talking Industrial Automation

About this episode

Bud Weightman shares his extensive experience in quality management and auditing, discussing the importance of custom solutions and the role of intuition in successful audits.

In this episode of Talking Industrial Automation , host Lisa Richter welcomes Bud Weightman—President of Qualified Specialists International (QSI) and a seasoned expert with over 35 years in quality management, auditing, and standards consulting. Bud takes us inside his journey from launching QSI in 1989 to auditing high-stakes offshore drilling operations around the globe. He explains the importance of risk-based auditing, why cookie-cutter systems fall short, and how custom, standards-driven solutions help companies improve performance, safety, and compliance. You'll also learn about the value of CSIA certification, the connection between intuition and successful audits, and what sets Bud's approach apart in an industry built on trust, evidence, and continuous improvement. P.S. The Show is always looking for guests! You do need to be part of a company that is a CSIA member with a Gold profile or higher on the CSIA Industrial Exchange but other than that, you are welcome to join this show. Contact Lisa Richter if you are interested. (Linkedin here )

People in this episode

Host: Lisa Richter

Guest: Bud Weightman

Topics covered

• quality management
• auditing
• standards consulting
• risk-based auditing
• CSIA certification
• performance improvement
• safety compliance

Keywords

• quality management
• auditing
• standards
• risk-based auditing
• CSIA certification
• performance
• safety
• compliance
• intuitive audits
• continuous improvement

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Qualified Specialists International, CSIA

Places: offshore drilling operations

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