ADVANCED MATERIALS & MANUFACTURING
The University of Arizona has made notable advancements in Advanced Materials and Engineering. The Department of Materials Science and Engineering excels in research, academics, and industry collaboration. The university's pioneering work includes innovative treatments for cancer, advancements in quantum computing, and crucial developments in semiconductor technology. These efforts have positioned UArizona as a leader in modern engineering and materials science.
FEATURED STORIES
Defense Manufacturing Conference 2024: Advancing Warfighter Capabilities
The Defense Manufacturing Conference (DMC) 2024 brought together over 2,000 leaders from government, industry, and academia to advance U.S. defense manufacturing. Hosted by the Joint Defense Manufacturing Technology Panel (JDMTP), the event emphasized collaboration, showcasing over 200 companies and nearly 100 technical sessions on robotics, advanced materials, and supply chain resilience. OSD ManTech’s hands-on exhibits highlighted key innovations, reinforcing its commitment to equipping warfighters with cutting-edge capabilities.
Keynote speaker Justin McRoberts outlined OSD ManTech’s strategy, focusing on MSTP initiatives, Manufacturing Innovation Institutes (MIIs), workforce development, and collaboration. Director Keith DeVries emphasized the importance of partnerships in strengthening the defense industrial base. DMC 2024 served as a catalyst for future innovation, ensuring the U.S. maintains its competitive edge in an evolving global landscape.
Additive manufacturing advances support Army ground vehicle readiness, extend fight
The U.S. Army's Battle Damage Repair and Fabrication (BDRF) process leverages cutting-edge 3D computer-aided design and additive manufacturing to rapidly replace damaged vehicle parts. This innovative approach minimizes vehicle downtime and preserves the lifecycle of older platforms. By partnering with various Army and manufacturing centers, the BDRF program has produced over 600 3D CAD models for on-demand fabrication, ensuring battle-worn vehicles remain mission-ready.
Interestingly, some temporary-use parts have outperformed the original ones, shaping the future of Army sustainment. This collaboration not only strengthens advanced manufacturing capabilities but also supports commercial and federal priorities, highlighting the importance of innovation and agility in modern military logistics.