A partnership between Florida Makes and LIFT aims to accelerate innovation in manufacturing, especially regarding material science, supply chain integration and technological advancements.
In this final part of a three-part series, Machine Design spoke with Kevin Carr, CEO, Florida Makes, and Joe Steele, vice president of communications and legislative affairs at LIFT, where the two outlined their goals that include expediting the development and market introduction of new technologies.
With a 10-year history focused on metallic materials at their Detroit headquarters, LIFT’s Steele said they are now turning their attention 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’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.
Supply Chain Integration and Resilience
A big part of the partnership involves assisting manufacturers with supply chain integration. Responding to disruptions caused by hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic, Florida Makes developed a supplier capability database known as CONNEX Marketplace. This platform allows manufacturers to showcase their capabilities and certifications in a manner akin to an online matchmaking service, facilitating connections between local suppliers and potential clients.
The platform was initially intended to address immediate supply chain challenges with the aerospace sector but has since expanded to assist various industries, including medical devices during the pandemic. The responsiveness of this system has been vital, allowing manufacturers to pivot toward emerging needs, such as producing personal protective equipment (PPE) when traditional supply chains faltered.
By fostering connections between manufacturers across Florida and beyond, the initiative aims to enhance regional capabilities and reduce dependency on distant suppliers. This localized approach not only promotes economic resilience but also helps to address challenges associated with global supply chain vulnerabilities.
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.
Watch additional parts of this interview series with Kevin Carr and Joe Steele:
Editor’s Note: Machine Design’s WISE (Workers in Science and Engineering) hub compiles our coverage of workplace issues affecting the engineering field, in addition to contributions from equity seeking groups and subject matter experts within various subdisciplines.
