Innovation Through Collaboration in Manufacturing

Innovation has always been the cornerstone of advancement in manufacturing, but it is not a solitary endeavor. The old cliché—two heads are better than one—holds true whether among team members, across departments or with external partners.

Machine Design’s recently released 2024 Salary and Career Survey revealed that nearly 74% of respondents are engaged in projects that involve collaboration with other companies, which underscores the importance of partnerships in driving innovation. Furthermore, roughly 42% of organizations are leveraging cloud technologies to facilitate this collaboration, showcasing a trend toward digital integration and joint efforts.

A prime example of collaboration in action is the partnership between FloridaMakes and LIFT, two influential entities in the manufacturing sector. Kevin Carr, CEO, FloridaMakes and Joe Steele, vice president of communications and legislative affairs at LIFT, have comes together to tackle the challenges and opportunities within Florida’s manufacturing landscape, notably in advanced manufacturing and talent development.

FloridaMakes, the state’s representative for the National Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), was established in 2015 to bolster Florida’s manufacturing economy through technological advancement, workforce development and growth strategies. Despite being less recognized as a manufacturing state, Florida boasts a robust network of approximately 27,000 manufacturing establishments, with a significant portion made up of small firms employing fewer than 20 employees.

LIFT, a public-private partnership between the Department of Defense and multiple industrial organizations and research institutions, as well as one of the DoD's National Manufacturing Innovation Institutes, is also celebrating its 10th anniversary. Based in Detroit, LIFT focuses on advanced materials and manufacturing processes, aiming to facilitate the transition of new technologies into practical applications, particularly within defense manufacturing.

Impact on Engineers and Small Manufacturers

The synergy between FloridaMakes and LIFT is expected to yield significant benefits for mechanical and design engineers in Florida. As noted by Steele, the partnership seeks to create a national ecosystem that aids manufacturers in the state by providing access to advanced technologies and commercialization pathways.

Carr said that small- to medium-size enterprises (SMEs) often face challenges in keeping abreast of technological advancements due to limited resources. This partnership offers critical support, helping these manufacturers improve their capabilities and integrate new technologies more effectively. By connecting local manufacturers with national resources and expertise, both organizations aim to foster innovation and accelerate growth in the manufacturing sector.

In outreach efforts, LIFT plans to leverage FloridaMakes’ extensive network to host webinars and collaborative sessions that will bring together industry representatives, academia and governmental bodies, they aim to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving. This proactive outreach will inform manufacturers about available resources and opportunities.

Carr said that outreach is essential for changing perceptions and increasing awareness of the support available through these organizations. Workshops, site visits to innovation centers and direct engagement with manufacturers are strategies that will help ensure even the smallest firms can access the tools and knowledge they need.

Expanding the Collaborative Network

The partnership's influence extends beyond Florida; it also has established a satellite facility in Puerto Rico, mirroring the efforts in the Sunshine State. This facility aims to bolster workforce development and technological innovation locally, ensuring benefits of the collaboration reach a broader audience.

LIFT’s Steele highlighted how their facility serves as a “showcase and sandbox,” demonstrating the future of manufacturing. Here, companies can observe the latest advancements and explore how digital technologies can improve their processes. The integration of computational materials engineering enables engineers to model and simulate new materials virtually, ensuring their suitability before physical production begins.

Additionally, there are plans to expand with a satellite facility in Florida's Panhandle region, further supporting local manufacturers by providing access to expertise and showcasing innovative manufacturing solutions.

Carr notes that while many collaborations are primarily focused on the aerospace and defense sectors, they also encompass a wide range of players, from small companies that specialize in materials technology to large original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Training Initiatives: Operation Next

Carr pointed out the importance of manufacturing knowledge for engineers entering the field and urged mechanical and electrical engineers to understand the process of bringing innovation to market. In the context of post-COVID recovery, a deeper comprehension of manufacturing processes can improve their ability to contribute effectively.

In response to the pressing need for a skilled workforce, LIFT introduced “Operation Next,” a program aimed at providing certification opportunities in vital manufacturing skills such as welding, CNC machining and robotics. Funded by the Florida State Legislature, this initiative specifically targets veterans, active-duty military members and civilians, addressing the critical need for multi-skilled technicians on manufacturing floors. By ensuring that engineers and technicians work in concert, the goal is to streamline production processes and improve overall efficiency and manufacturing.

With a 10-year history focused on metallic materials at their Detroit headquarters, LIFT’s Steele said they are now turning their attention to 10 new materials essential for advanced applications, particularly in hypersonics—technologies that operate at speeds exceeding 6,000 mph. These advancements necessitate the exploration of alternative materials, especially ceramics, which may hold the key to achieving the required performance standards. The influx of energy and expertise from the Florida region, with its proximity to the Space Coast and Redstone Arsenal, paves the way for innovative materials research and collaboration with local manufacturers.

The objective of the partnership is to integrate insights from Florida’s manufacturing community, aiming to align ongoing projects with existing capabilities and accelerate progress into the marketplace. While the partnership has a vision, it remains adaptable, open to feedback and new ideas from manufacturers, Carr and Steele said.

A Future-Forward Vision

The partnership is committed to integrating insights from Florida’s manufacturing community, aligning ongoing projects with existing capabilities to accelerate innovation. This adaptable approach invites feedback and new ideas from manufacturers, ensuring the partnership remains dynamic and responsive to industry needs.

Furthermore, the collaboration is actively addressing supply chain integration, particularly considering previous disruptions from natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. FloridaMakes’ introduction of the CONNEX Marketplace—a supplier capability database—facilitates connections between local suppliers and clients, bolstering regional manufacturing resilience.

The Role of Collaborative Networks

The partnership underscores the importance of collaboration across the manufacturing industrial base, connecting a range of suppliers critical to defense and broader manufacturing needs. By harnessing their collective strengths and knowledge, partners aim to uncover hidden resources and innovations within close proximity, promoting a culture of cooperation that can lead to significant advancements and efficiencies.

Embracing innovation through collaboration can help the manufacturing industry navigate the complexities of today’s market while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.