Mark Paradies

Mark Paradies brings knowledge of human factors and equipment reliability to the field of root cause analysis. After receiving a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois, Mark served in Admiral Rickover’s Nuclear Navy where he received NAVSEA 08’s Engineer Certification; learned Rickover’s equipment reliability best practices, and participated in Rickover’s culture of operational excellence. Mark then studied Human Factors at the University of Illinois while completing a Masters Degree in Nuclear Engineering.

Mark brought this knowledge of operation excellence, human factors, and equipment reliability to the development of effective root cause analysis practices while working at Du Pont. His work there led him to start System Improvements and bring advanced root cause analysis concepts to the world.

Mark’s understanding of human factor concepts is foundational to TapRooT®. He incorporated advanced human performance technology into TapRooT®, without complicated Ph.D. jargon, so that managers, supervisors, engineers, and shop floor personnel can effectively solve problems.

With the development of TapRooT®, Mark and TapRooT® co-developer Linda Unger have changed the way the world solves problems through advanced root cause analysis tools, training, and software, assisting in designing and improving performance improvement programs, and in investigating the root causes of accidents, sentinel events, equipment failures, and quality issues. Mark has taught thousands of students around the world in a variety of industries, including: oil exploration and production, refining chemicals, plastics, and petrochemicals; mining, metals, and fertilizer; utilities, airlines, shipping, railroads, and light rail; pharmaceutical and consumer products; and manufacturing, telecommunications, network reliability, and government.