The final installment of a three-part series by Machine Design dives deeply into a collaboration between Florida Makes and LIFT, targeting the advancement of manufacturing innovation with a particular emphasis on materials science, supply chain resilience, and the acceleration of new technologies. In an interview with Kevin Carr, the CEO of Florida Makes, and Joe Steele, LIFT’s vice president of communications, the partnership’s efforts to speed up the development and commercial introduction of groundbreaking technologies are thoroughly examined.
LIFT, which has traditionally concentrated on metallic materials, is now broadening its research to encompass ten additional materials essential for advanced applications, such as hypersonics. Hypersonic technologies, operating at velocities exceeding 6,000 mph, necessitate alternative materials like ceramics to meet the required high-performance standards. This expansion is significantly enhanced by Florida’s expertise and energy, especially due to its proximity to the Space Coast and Redstone Arsenal. This strategic location fosters innovative material research and strengthens engagement with regional manufacturers, aiming to align ongoing projects with existing capabilities and hasten their market entry. The collaborative approach remains flexible, welcoming feedback from manufacturers and new ideas.
Enhancing Supply Chain Integration
One notable component of this partnership is the development of robust supply chain integration and resilience strategies. In response to various disruptions, including hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic, Florida Makes initiated the CONNEX Marketplace, a comprehensive supplier capability database. This innovative platform, akin to an online matchmaking service, allows manufacturers to showcase their capabilities and certifications, thus facilitating connections with potential clients. Originally designed to support the aerospace sector, the platform’s utility expanded during the pandemic to aid various industries, including medical devices. The rapid pivot to address emerging needs, such as the production of PPE amidst traditional supply chain failures, underscored the system’s responsiveness and adaptability.
By fostering interconnectedness across Florida and extending beyond state lines, this initiative aims to strengthen regional manufacturing capabilities while reducing reliance on global suppliers. The primary objective is to promote economic resilience by addressing vulnerabilities within global supply chains. This resilience is crucial for maintaining steady production flows and ensuring that local markets are less affected by international disruptions. The ambition is to create a more self-sufficient and resilient regional manufacturing ecosystem capable of withstanding various external shocks.
Collaborative Networks and Future Vision
The final installment of a three-part series by Machine Design delves into the collaboration between Florida Makes and LIFT, focusing on advancing manufacturing innovation, particularly in materials science, supply chain resilience, and technology acceleration. An interview with Kevin Carr, CEO of Florida Makes, and Joe Steele, LIFT’s VP of communications, sheds light on their efforts to speed up the development and commercial introduction of groundbreaking technologies.
Traditionally concentrating on metallic materials, LIFT is now expanding its research to include ten additional materials crucial for advanced applications such as hypersonics. Hypersonic technologies, which operate at speeds over 6,000 mph, require materials like ceramics to meet high-performance standards. This expansion is bolstered by Florida’s expertise and energy, largely due to its proximity to the Space Coast and Redstone Arsenal. This strategic location enhances innovative material research and strengthens ties with regional manufacturers, aligning ongoing projects with local capabilities to hasten market entry. The partnership remains flexible, welcoming manufacturer feedback and new ideas.
