The industrial sector in the United States is experiencing a manufacturing renaissance. Manufacturers are boosting output, building new facilities, increasing exports and creating jobs that require new skills and knowledge. Manufacturing has seen a growth spurt for the first time since the 1990s, adding 640,000 jobs since February of 2010.
As manufacturing moves from mass production toward mass customization, industrial engineering is integral to overcoming challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities. Amidst the industry's resurgence, North Carolina State University's Edward P. Fitts Industrial and Systems Engineering Department (NC State ISE) is at the forefront of the advancement of domestic manufacturing.
"Industrial engineers are vital to answering challenges surrounding new knowledge, systems and technologies in manufacturing," said Paul H. Cohen, Edgar S. Woolard Distinguished Professor and Head of NC State ISE. "Today's manufacturing requires professionals who can provide solutions for issues regarding talent and workforce development, cyber and physical infrastructures, policies and regulations and outreach and engagement."
One of President Barack Obama's priorities is forging high-tech manufacturing advancements through a national network of research institutes that push collaboration between industry and universities. Among them, NC State University leads the Next Generation Power Electronics National Manufacturing Innovation Institute, which represents a $140 million investment in power electronics. As part of the organization, NC State ISE is leading the advanced use of 3-D printing processes to produce next generation electric grid components. The institute combines academic, industry and government partners to transform energy efficiency for everything from satellites to microwave ovens, electric vehicles, electronic devices and power grids.
"Industrial engineering is driving the evolution of the manufacturing industry and bringing more opportunities to the U.S.," said Dr. Ola Harrysson, Professor, NC State ISE. "Industrial and systems engineers are able to turn scientific discoveries into financial and societal impact for the manufacturing industry and beyond."
President Obama has commended higher education professors, inventors, scientists and community leaders, like NC State ISE, for fostering the growth and expansion of manufacturing.
"Today, more than 150 colleges and universities are committing to giving young people more hands-on opportunities to make things," said President Obama during the White House's first-ever Maker Faire, an event designed to celebrate and spark American-made innovation.
"Your projects are examples of a revolution that is taking place in American manufacturing - a revolution that can help us create new jobs and industries for decades to come," said President Obama.
For more information contact:
Industrial & Systems Engineering
400 Daniels Hall
College of Engineering
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC 27695-7906
919-515-2362
www.ise.ncsu.edu