Hi everyone,

I have been a manufacturing engineer at a senior level for 10+ years, and am trying to get over the hump to a manufacturing engineering management position.  I am the "second banana" as a "lead" engineer in my present position, and was the go-to guy in my last position when my supervisor was traveling.  I have led many Kaizen events (cross-functional process improvements), led implementation of lean concepts in several departments, and initiated/drove/managed many large-dollar capital projects.  I have a Master's degree, recent Lean certification, and will be teaching a 400 level class in my field at a local 4-year, Division 1 university beginning this term.  I've always been an "A" player and have never been fired.  I have interviewed for several Mfg. Eng. Mgmnt jobs lately, and the focus always comes back around to the fact that I don't yet have DIRECT people management experience.  I haven't been successful at putting these potential employers at ease - giving them the "warm-and-fuzzy" feeling that I am capable of the next level.  Any advice?  I enjoy coaching and mentoring young engineers, and believe this is the right path.  I am considering forgetting about the management path and focusing on an expert/consultant role, but have a young family and don't want 80-90% travel at this point.  Any objective advise would certainly be appreciated.