(Source: MIRS.news, Published 05/30/2024) A network of 3D printers that Oakland County's small manufacturers have used since the height of the 2020 pandemic is being expanded to a regionwide effort designed to help more than 9,100 small manufacturers.
Wayne and Macomb counties are joining with Oakland County on Automation Alley's Project DIAMOnD network, a commitment that is designed to lower costs and "scale up" businesses, according to the Governor's office.
The network was born out of frustration about supply chain delays and the dependency on overseas manufacturing, according to Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter. The county put $25 million of federal money into the project over two phases, and now it's a regional priority.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said during a morning press conference that she'd like to see Automation Alley's project expanded statewide, making the state a national model.
"Project DIAMOnD represents the future of manufacturing," said Tom Kelly, executive director and CEO of Automation Alley. "We are putting our flag in the ground and building the world's additive manufacturing ecosystem – right here in Michigan."
