MxD & Drexel launch workforce-training for advanced manufacturing

Drexel University and MxD (Manufacturing x Digital) announced the launch of a new workforce-development program. 

Managed by the Drexel Solutions Institute, the Drexel Digital Design & Advanced Manufacturing Program (D3-AMP) at MxD will target industry professionals in automotive, aerospace, biomedical, naval and manufacturing companies who are interested in obtaining hands-on experience in combination with current digital technologies. D3-AMP will combine asynchronous and synchronous training, both remote and in-person, with an emphasis on leveraging the digital thread that links all steps of the engineering design process. A first delivery of the D3-AMP is scheduled for April 2022 with funding from the Defense Logistics Agency.  

“The advent of Industry 4.0 has created a surge toward rapid integration of technological innovations in manufacturing processes, and therefore there is a pressing need to create flexible and customizable training modules for both professionals and future workforce,” said Antonios Kontsos, PhD, a professor of mechanical engineering and mechanics in Drexel’s College of Engineering, who will serve as director of the D3-AMP Program. 

D3-AMP was created by subject-matter experts at Drexel, with input from MxD and its national network of defense manufacturers, in order to demonstrate cutting-edge developments in linking digital models to simulations-based engineering, design optimization, advanced manufacturing, and product life management.  

“Drexel University is thrilled to partner with MxD in the creation and launch of the new Drexel Digital Design & Advanced Manufacturing Program,” said Anna Koulas, vice president, Drexel Solutions Institute. “This program will enable its participants to gain invaluable, hands-on learning experiences in an exciting and emerging field. As we see disruptive technologies become more common regardless of industry sector, it will be imperative that academic institutions and businesses work together in order to train and upskill workforces so that individuals remain competitive in the evolving marketplace.” 

Kontsos is collaborating with Kris Risi, PhD, associate dean of corporate, executive education and innovation, and her team in Drexel’s LeBow College of Business. 

“MxD is excited to collaborate with Drexel University to offer manufacturers a training course in Industry 4.0 that allows learners the flexibility to learn as their schedule permits while also providing access to hands-on learning with state-of-the-art equipment on MxD’s factory floor,” said Lizabeth Stuck, senior director, MxD Learn, which is MxD workforce-development arm. “This program will introduce participants to the future of manufacturing and provide them with the skills necessary to enter an exciting career path in the industry.”