A leadership team from EWI, The Ohio State University and the University of Michigan has been chosen by the Department of Defense to lead its new institute to advance lightweight and modern metal manufacturing technologies. The institute will ensure that the U.S. is the world leader in the application of innovative lightweight metal production and component/subsystem manufacturing technologies.
Under the direction of technology innovator EWI with The Ohio State University and University of Michigan, the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII) will open its doors in spring 2014. The new facility, headquartered in the Metro Detroit area, will be part of the National Network of Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI), a federal initiative to help U.S. manufacturers become more competitive and encourage investment in the U.S.
The goal of the new institute will be "to expand the market for and create new consumers of products and systems that utilize new, lightweight, high performing metals and alloys by removing technological barriers to their manufacture," the White House said.
The ALMMII team was selected through a competitive process led by the U.S. Department of Defense under the Lightweight and Modern Metals Manufacturing Innovation (LM3I) solicitation issued by the U.S. Navy's Office of Naval Research. The institute will receive $70 million in federal funding matched by another $78 million from the consortium partners.
Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio expressed full confidence and support for the launch. "American workers have the drive, the creativity and the determination to out-innovate the rest of the world," he said. "By developing innovative partnerships among the DoD, research institutions like The Ohio State University and industry organizations like EWI, we ensure that American workers and businesses have the resources they need to develop the next generation of high-tech manufacturing Industries. This type of investment helps rebuild our nation's manufacturing sector while creating new jobs and strengthening our middle class."
"Innovation is the number one driver of manufacturing competitiveness, and ALMMII represents an important investment in the future of U.S. manufacturing," said EWI President and CEO Henry Cialone. "We applaud Senator Brown's leadership in promoting a broader body of innovation to support American manufacturers, and appreciate the confidence in our team that this award conveys."
In addition to the three founding institutions, the ALMMII consortium includes more than 50 companies, universities, non-profit research institutions and workforce development intermediaries. The institute is actively seeking more partners to join its team.
Ohio State President Joseph A. Alutto said that the partner group is first-rate. "We are proud to be working with such an outstanding founding group in establishing this important national institute, which will bring together resources from industry, government and academia to enhance the region's competitiveness, create opportunities for students, and generate economic growth," he said.
Likewise, Columbus State Community College President David T. Harrison is pleased to see that university and community college education is a key component of the ALMMII approach. "Columbus State is excited to partner with EWI and Ohio State toward a more integrated approach in training for the high tech advanced manufacturing careers associated with lightweight metals. Through our collaboration with ALMMII, Columbus State students will have an opportunity like no other to be a part of the future of manufacturing in Ohio."
Government leaders in Ohio also recognize the importance of developing a well-trained workforce. "This grant will engender the type of workforce development that will provide the skilled labor for manufacturers of all sizes and help facilitate new manufacturing technologies that will give a competitive edge and stimulate job creation," said Representative Kirk Schuring, Chair of the Ohio House Manufacturing and Workforce Development Committee.
For more information contact:
EWI
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