Center to Advance Manufacturing

Great news – the results from the September round of TechCred have been released! It’s exciting to see employers benefiting from this great opportunity. Did you know that the Center has staff ready to assist with your company’s TechCred application and connect you with our educational partners for targeted training? The next round starts January 2 -- If your company is considering applying, we’re here to simplify the process and support your team’s development. Contact us here: https://buff.ly/3Ap8Z9m

Congrats to Fishbeck on their recent acquisition!

The School of Engineering at Bowling Green State University (BGSU) is currently inviting industry partners to submit capstone design project proposals for the upcoming spring semester. This initiative provides an excellent opportunity to collaborate with senior students. Each capstone design team, composed of 4-5 students, will approach the project holistically, leveraging their interdisciplinary skills to develop innovative solutions. The teams will work on these industry challenges throughout the semester, culminating in a formal presentation of their solutions by Spring 2025. The School of Engineering welcomes proposals from industry partners seeking fresh, creative solutions to engineering challenges. For full details, visit: https://lnkd.in/ezUF_w9y

Last week, Center staff Tim Mayle and Jeri Steinbrook, along with Bowling Green State University College of Technology, Architecture and Applied Engineering leaders Wael Mokhtar and MD Sarder, had the opportunity to visit GROB Systems, Inc in Bluffton. With e-mobility rapidly expanding—particularly in electric motors, batteries, and fuel cells— GROB continues to lead as a global force in advanced manufacturing. This growth presents an incredible opportunity for collaboration between higher education and industry. BGSU's Robotics Engineering, Electronics and Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, and Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering programs offer faculty, staff, and students as valuable resources. The Center is eager to align these assets with GROB to support their advancements and drive innovation. #AdvancedManufacturing #EMobility #Collaboration

🌟 Manufacturing Spotlight: SIMONA PMC 🌟 Located in Findlay, Ohio, Simona PMC is a leading manufacturer of thermoplastic products, specializing in high-performance polymer solutions for industrial applications. With expertise in producing durable, lightweight materials, Simona PMC supports industries like aerospace, automotive, and chemical processing. Their commitment to quality and precision engineering helps meet demanding specifications, making them a trusted partner in high-performance plastics. #Manufacturing #Thermoplastics #FindlayOhio

Center Program Manager, Ford Weber attended the Ohio Future-Ready Workforce Summit in Columbus sponsored by Lightcast, JobsOhio, Work Shift, and Columbus State Community College. The Summit included a presentation by Lightcast's Sr. Labor Economist Ron Hetrick on Lightcast's recently published study of the workforce demographic crisis "The Rising Storm," as well as several panel discussions, including panelist, David Zak, Executive Director, Ohio Economic Development Association. #FutureReadyOhio #WorkforceDevelopment #OhioManufacturing

Exciting news for Northwest Ohio companies! The JobsOhio Small Business Grant continues to empower underrepresented communities and businesses across the region, and we’re thrilled to see several local manufacturers benefiting from this incredible funding opportunity. JobsOhio is helping build a stronger, more inclusive future for Ohio’s manufacturing sector. Learn more about this impactful program in the article below. #OhioManufacturing #EconomicDevelopment 

🌟 Manufacturing Spotlight: Phoenix Technologies International, LLC 🌟 Located in Bowling Green, Ohio, Phoenix Technologies is a leader in sustainable manufacturing, specializing in producing high-quality, FDA-compliant recycled PET (rPET) for food and beverage packaging. By focusing on closed-loop recycling and eco-friendly processes, Phoenix Technologies plays a key role in reducing plastic waste and supporting the circular economy. Their dedication to sustainable solutions positions them as a valuable partner in environmentally responsible packaging. #Manufacturing #RecycledPET #Sustainability

Strengthening Ohio businesses! The Regional 166 Direct Loan Program is helping promote economic growth and job creation by offering low-interest loans to businesses with limited access to private funding. This initiative ensures that companies across Ohio can thrive, create jobs, and contribute to their communities. Read more about how the state is investing nearly $6.4 million to transform businesses and communities at the article below. #EconomicDevelopment #OhioBusiness

🌟 Manufacturing Spotlight: Riker Products Inc. 🌟 Based in Toledo, Ohio, Riker Products, Inc. is a trusted leader in the manufacturing of exhaust, air intake systems, and custom formed tube products for vehicles. With over 90 years in the industry, Riker combines high-quality engineering with advanced manufacturing processes to deliver durable exhaust solutions. Their commitment to precision and performance supports the trucking and transportation sectors, helping vehicles operate safely and efficiently on the road. #Manufacturing #NorthwestOhio #Automotive