The American Lightweight Manufacturing Institute opened the doors of its new facility in Corktown last week, a move that promises to bring the 21st century manufacturing jobs to a city long famous for the things it builds.
The innovation acceleration center is partnering with major corporations and institutions of higher education to help bring new manufacturing technologies utilizing lightweight materials to market through its "Lightweight Innovations for Tomorrow" program.
"This is industry-driven," says Lawrence Brown, executive director of the
American Lightweight Manufacturing Institute. "They help identify the gaps and we as a team will come together and develop solutions for these gaps."
The new 100,000 square-foot facility required $148 million in investment so it could bring new manufacturing technology from the research lab to the production floor. It is partnering with the likes of the University of Michigan, Ohio State University, General Electric, Boeing, and Eaton Corp to push the envelope of advanced manufacturing.
The American Lightweight Manufacturing Institute currently employs three people and is looking to hire a couple more, all administrative positions. Brown expects to expand the staff to nearly 30 people over the next 18 months with the addition of engineering and R&D staff.
"We're trying to ramp up now," Brown says.
Source: Lawrence Brown, executive director of the American Lightweight Manufacturing Institute
Writer: Jon Zemke
Read more about Metro Detroit's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem at SEMichiganStartup.com.