NIST Launches Competition for AI-Powered Manufacturing Institute

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Hey there, tech fans and manufacturing enthusiasts! The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has something big in store. Get ready for a competition that could change the game for U.S. manufacturing. Introducing the Manufacturing USA institute focused on using artificial intelligence (AI) to make American manufacturing more resilient!

Key Takeaways

1. NIST is investing $70 million in federal funds over five years. Private and nonfederal sources will match or exceed this amount.

2. The AI institute aims to help U.S. manufacturers become more productive and resilient globally. It will do this by improving operations and supply chains.

3. The institute will conduct R&D projects. It will create employer-led partnerships for training. It will also develop pathways for a skilled workforce to bring innovation to life.

4. The application process has two stages. First, concept papers are considered. Then, full proposals are invited from the best concepts.

5. The AI for Resilient Manufacturing competition will open in early spring 2024.

A Game-Changer for U.S. Manufacturing

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo is excited about AI's potential. She believes it can "supercharge manufacturing" and give American workers and businesses a competitive edge. The new Manufacturing USA AI-focused institute is a key part of the Biden-Harris administration's mission. They want to revitalize American manufacturing and invest in innovation.

Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and NIST Director Laurie E. Locascio agrees. She thinks manufacturers who use AI will be more productive and resilient in the global marketplace.

What to Expect

The AI institute will join the Manufacturing USA network. It will focus on:

• Conducting research and development projects

• Creating employer-led partnerships for training resources

• Developing pathways for a skilled workforce to bring innovation to life

NIST wants the institute to achieve specific outcomes that support manufacturing resilience. These include:

• Speeding up the adoption of new technologies

• Predicting when maintenance is needed

• Optimizing manufacturing processes and working capital

• Predicting and reducing risks from supply chain disruptions

The application process has two stages:

1. Concept papers are considered first

2. Applicants with the best concepts are invited to submit full proposals

The AI for Resilient Manufacturing competition will open in early spring 2024. Watch for announcements on Grants.gov and the websites of NIST's Office of Advanced Manufacturing and Manufacturing USA.

Join the Conversation

NIST wants to help potential applicants learn more before submitting a proposal. Here's how you can get involved:

• Watch the recorded information session online

• Check out the FAQ page on the NIST OAM Funding Opportunities website

• Attend the webinar and in-person proposers' day (dates and locations to be announced)

Why It Matters

The AI-focused Manufacturing USA institute could be a game-changer. It will use AI to improve operations and supply chains. This will help American manufacturers become more productive and resilient. It will also make them more competitive globally.

The initiative will drive innovation. It will create pathways for a skilled workforce. Ultimately, it will strengthen the national economy.

So, what do you think about this exciting development? Are you ready to see AI revolutionize American manufacturing? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!

And if you want to stay in the loop on AI and manufacturing trends, check out our other articles:

• The future of AI in industrial automation

• The rise of smart factories

• How AI is transforming supply chain management

Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2024/03/nist-launch-competition-ai-focused-manufacturing-usa-institute

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