Source: advancedmanufacturing.org
by Advanced Manufacturing Media – Staff Report
The Manufacturing USA network of public-private institutes “is a valid approach” that “attracts significant and meaningful participation from industry…academia, and local, state, and federal government,” a consulting company commissioned by Manufacturing USA said in a report.
“Institute members have made substantial joint investments in collaborative approaches to R&D and commercialization of cutting-edge advanced manufacturing technologies,” Deloitte Consulting LLP said in the executive summary of a 76-page report. “Institutes are laying the groundwork for building the American manufacturing workforce’s skills to meet the needs of 21st century employers.”
Deloitte was commissioned by Manufacturing USA “to conduct a third-party review and evaluation of the Program,” according to the executive summary. “The study emphasized the overall Program, not the detailed operations of any individual institute.”
Study Methods
The consulting company began its study in August when Manufacturing USA had eight institutes. Additional institutes were announced after that, bringing the total to 14. Deloitte interviewed officials at the first eight institutes, federal agencies involved in sponsoring the program and outside experts. Work on the study concluded this month.
Deloitte also gathered and analyzed institute documents and data, according to the report.
“Advanced manufacturing is a critical investment area for the broader domestic economy,” according to the report. Support “is needed to reverse slowing productivity growth and the trade imbalance.
“Manufacturing USA’s institutes help R&D innovation and commercialization and prepare the 21st century workforce,” Deloitte said. “Institutes encourage mutually beneficial collaboration to catalyze R&D investment and overcome barriers to innovation.”