Additive Minds Academy to provide education on laser powder bed fusion.
In yet another instance of additive manufacturing (AM) gaining ground in the defense industry, AM supplier EOS has announced a contract to support the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) program to provide training in the use of laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) to MIB suppliers. This is part of a broader effort to bridge the gaps between the maritime workforce and AM education.
Starting this month, the training program will be run through EOS’ Additive Minds Academy, located in Novi, MI. Combining online coursework and hands-on workshops, the goal is to equip MIB suppliers with the necessary skills in AM software, L-PBF system operation and ASTM machine certifications.
“This program helps the U.S. Navy offer suppliers skilled personnel trained in new technologies like laser powder bed fusion, which will enable us to quickly fill critical component gaps that our traditional manufacturing base can’t provide in a timely fashion,” said Justin Rettaliata, MIB program additive manufacturing lead, in an EOS press release. “Through initiatives like this, the MIB Program is advancing more agile and responsive manufacturing technologies in the U.S. Navy’s supply chain to quickly produce parts.”
All of the courses will be led by EOS- and ASTM-certified Additive Minds Academy trainers. Upon completion, participants will earn industry-recognized certifications for metal AM data preparation and metal machine operation, certified by ASTM.
“In recent years, the imperative for faster, more adaptable manufacturing processes to meet the U.S. Navy’s production objectives has become increasingly evident,” said Fabian Alefeld, director of business development and Additive Minds Academy at EOS in the same release. “Bridging this manufacturing gap demands innovative thinking, advanced technologies, and – most critically, a skilled workforce equipped to leverage these new tools effectively. We are honored to provide the training and education essential for the MIB and the U.S. Navy to successfully integrate additive manufacturing into their broader operational framework.”
The US Navy funding is being provided in partnership with BlueForge Alliance, a Texas-based nonprofit that aims to accelerate the revitalization of the defense industrial base.
