This week, emerging technologies and breakthrough manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing, are being thrust forth into the spotlight in Washington, D.C., as the Obama Administration is dedicating an entire week to recognizing the creative and innovative endeavors within the United States at the Smart Manufacturing Innovation Institute Competition. This is far from President Barack Obama’s first rodeo with 3D printing technology; the sitting President has already had a 3D portrait taken of himself, and has even been advised by a 9-year-old 3D printing enthusiast on the country’s education system at the recently held White House Science Fair. Before he finishes up his final year as the United States President, Obama is planning to set America on the path towards new innovation and advanced manufacturing methods.
During the week-long effort, business leaders, economic development officials, and investors from around the world gathered for the third annual SelectUSA Summit. At the investment summit, President Obama announced that the Los Angeles, California-headquartered consortium, named the Smart Manufacturing Leadership Coalition (SMLC), will lead the new Smart Manufacturing Innovation Institute, which is the ninth manufacturing hub awarded by the Obama Administration. The victorious coalition is comprised of over 200 partners from over 30 states, and is primarily focused on advancing smart sensors and digital process controls, which they believe can radically improve the efficiency and sustainability of advanced manufacturing in the United States.
