Greater Manchester Evolves as a Center for Pioneering 3D Printing Advancements
In an exciting development for the North West region, several significant projects are underway, set to create jobs, upskill local workers, and bolster the economy.
Boeing has established a new Engineering Center within the Cici & Hyatt Brown Center for Aerospace Technology at Embry‐Riddle Aeronautical University's Research Park. This move reinforces Boeing's long-term investment in the region and is expected to generate 128 jobs, upskill 117 roles, and contribute £15.6m to the North West economy.
Meanwhile, Orbex, a space launch company, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of its first full simulation of the Prime vehicle launch. This simulation marks a key technical milestone as Orbex prepares to deliver orbital launch services from the UK next year.
The North West region is also leading the way in the adoption of 3D printing, or additive manufacturing. According to a new government study, the region has the highest 3D printing adoption rate (20%) outside London (30%). Made Smarter North West and PrintCity, MMU's state-of-the-art 3D printing facility, are key enablers of this success.
Since launching in 2019, Made Smarter North West has supported 27 manufacturers to invest £1.6m in 3D printing technologies, backed by £442,000 in grant funding. This program, along with the Fast Track Additive Manufacturing - Upskilling the Workforce program, co-developed by partners, is accelerating the adoption of 3D printing by upskilling employees.
Moreover, Made Smarter and PrintCity have given SMEs the confidence to explore 3D printing through site visits, demonstrations, and practical training. Over 125 manufacturing leaders have taken part in hands-on sessions at PrintCity as part of Made Smarter's Leading Digital Transformation program.
The Made Smarter Program in Northwest England supports various manufacturing SMEs, including precision engineering, advanced manufacturing, and SMEs in sectors like automotive and aerospace. To date, it has supported over 700 SMEs in the region.
On a different note, Woodward Inc, an American aerospace and industrial company, is planning to build a precision manufacturing facility in Greer, South Carolina, in Spartanburg County.
The success in the North West can be attributed to a place-based innovation model, centred on Greater Manchester, driving this growth. These projects are not just transforming the economy but also reshaping the future of manufacturing and aerospace in the region.
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