The University of Michigan School of Engineering has established the U-M Advanced Manufacturing Institute (UMAMI), a new initiative designed to translate cutting-edge manufacturing research into real-world impact.
UMAMI is led by Director Chinedum Okwudire, ASC associate and professor of mechanical engineering, and Co-Director Jeffrey Abell, professor of practice in mechanical engineering. Together, they lead a collaboration spanning seven U-M units, including the College of Engineering, the Ross School of Business, the Institute for Social Research, and campuses in Dearborn and Flint.
The institute has two core goals: to advance interdisciplinary research on human-centered and sustainable manufacturing, and to close the gap between academic discovery and what actually gets used on factory floors. UMAMI will pursue these goals through federally funded research projects, strengthened industry partnerships, and hands-on training opportunities for students at every level.
A particular focus is on small- and medium-sized manufacturers, which make up 98% of U.S. manufacturers but are often left out of large-scale research initiatives. UMAMI aims to change that by offering these companies direct access to U-M expertise and facilities, including a recently renovated 20,000-square-foot manufacturing lab.
"With UMAMI, we are creating a platform that empowers faculty and students, strengthens industry partnerships, and positions Michigan as a national leader in the future of manufacturing," said Okwudire.
To read more about this project, please visit the Q&A article with the research team here.
