Advanced Manufacturing Could Spark Next Industrial Revolution
Manufacturing may be poised for a quantum leap that will rival
the transformation that took place nearly 100 years ago when
Henry Ford revolutionized industry with the creation of the
assembly line, say industry experts. In fact, President Barack
Obama has made advanced manufacturing — which incorporates the
integration of information technology, human innovation, energy
efficiency and waste reduction — a cornerstone in his initiative
for boosting U.S. manufacturing and jobs growth. In June 2011,
Obama launched the Advanced Manufacturing Partnership, a
national effort to unite industries, universities and the
government to invest in the emerging technologies that will
create high-quality manufacturing jobs and bolster global
competitiveness. He also announced an initiative to invest $500
million to help develop advanced manufacturing technologies and
jobs. How does advanced manufacturing differ from traditional
factory output? Fred Wentzel, vice pr