Archive

NCMS Chief Technology Officer Appointed to Navy’s Science and Technology Board

09-19-2023
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is pleased to announce that Dr. Thomas R. Kurfess, NCMS Chief Technology Officer, has been appointed to the Department of the Navy’s newly formed Science and Technology Board. The board will provide independent advice and counsel to the Department of the Navy (DON) on matters and policies relating to scientific, technical, manufacturing, acquisition, logistics, medicine, and business management functions. “It is both an honor and
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US Army's Inaugural Contested Logistics Industry Week Scheduled for September

08-17-2023
The United States Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) and Combined Arms Support Command (CASCOM) have announced the Inaugural Contested Logistics Industry Week, to be held September 11-15, 2023, at the Army Sustainment University in Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia. The event is voluntary and open to all interested members of industry, academia, and U.S. Department of Defense. But interested parties must act fast. The deadline for submitting requests to attend is end-of-day Friday, August
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First NCMS Technology Showcase at Tinker AFB Shines Spotlight on Innovative Solutions

07-28-2023
The first NCMS Technology Showcase with the Air Force, held at Tinker Air Force Base (AFB) in Oklahoma City, July 17-18, 2023, provided an opportunity for 59 world-class companies to exhibit how their technologies serve Tinker AFB’s mission: providing sustainment and logistics readiness to deliver combat power for America. Companies exhibited technologies in multiple focus areas including Advanced/Additive Manufacturing, Business IT and Analytics, CBM+/Predictive Maintenance, Coatings and
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NCMS and NIAR pioneer revolutionary KC-135 sustainment program

06-26-2023
Ann Arbor, MI—June 26, 2023—The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) announce supporting partnerships with the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) and the US Air Force (USAF) Air Mobility Command (AMC) to establish a KC-135 Stratotanker innovation testbed in Wichita. Earlier this month, a retired KC-135 air refueling aircraft was flown to McConnell Air Force Base and delivered to NIAR to
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Optimizing the Manufacturing and Assembly of T-38 Aircraft Wings

06-23-2023
The Air Force trains new pilots on the Northrop T-38 Talon, leading to significant wear and tear on the aircraft, and in particular the wings. Presently, production of replacement wings and associated repairs takes a lengthy amount of time due to outdated part designs and processes, so the Air Force is looking to optimize wing manufacturing and assembly. The CTMA Program has stepped in to fill this need by launching a collaboration between the Air Force and the National Institute for
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NCMS Technology Showcase at Norfolk Naval Shipyard Features World-Class Exhibitors

06-23-2023
NCMS partnered with the Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) in Portsmouth, VA, from May 9 to 11, on an NCMS Technology Showcase that featured leading-edge solutions from world-class organizations designed to help fast-track relevant maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) innovation for all naval shipyards. Working closely with the innovation leads at NNSY, NCMS identified best-in-class technologies aligned to key MRO functional areas: Advanced/Additive Manufacturing, Workload Planning, Advanced
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Risk-Based Corrosion Prevention Initiative to Offer Versatile Assessment Tools

06-23-2023
Corrosion is an insidious problem across the globe, costing industries and governments billions of dollars each year to prevent and remediate while simultaneously taking critical equipment and infrastructure out of service. A CTMA collaboration is developing best-practice technical and business process solutions to effectively address corrosion throughout the life cycle of fielded equipment and infrastructure. The initiative will be useful for the Army, the DOD, and commercial industries that
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NCMS Partners with Carrier Team One for Innovation Expo, and with NavalX for Technology Exchange Workshops

06-23-2023
NCMS supported Carrier Team One (CT1) in their mission of improving the performance and availability of Navy aircraft carriers by hosting an Innovation Expo during CT1’s Annual Community Event in May at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott in Norfolk, VA. NCMS reached out to our network to seek industry partners with technologies that may help CT1 with their objectives: modernizing current carrier business processes, increasing the efficiency of their carrier deck plate processes, and providing
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Digitizing the F100 Engine and Researching Parts for Additive Manufacturing

06-23-2023
The CTMA Program is collaborating to improve the maintenance and sustainment of aircraft engines through a partnership with the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) and the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center by creating a digital twin engine along with the Workbench for Additive Materials. “The Air Force’s Propulsion Directorate is a recognized leader in the implementation of innovative technologies. Our partnership with the NIAR on the F100 Digital Twin and the Workbench for
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Collaboration Seeks to Reduce Air Force Maintenance Costs

06-23-2023
The US Department of Defense’s most versatile helicopter, the Black Hawk, and its close cousins, other H-60 variants, perform multiple missions: delivering and rescuing warfighters in combat zones, protecting aircraft during armed assault missions, providing aerial firefighting, patrolling borders, bringing critical supplies to civilians during natural disasters, and transporting dignitaries. With more than 5,000 in service worldwide, the Black Hawk primarily serves the US Army, but it is
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USAF Digital Twin Efforts Progress at National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR)

06-23-2023
As the B-1 continues its service into the 2030s, a CTMA project is assisting with the aircraft’s digital engineering (DE) transformation. The B-1 System Program Office (SPO) began its DE transformation in early 2020 by creating a structural digital twin of a single wing at the NIAR facility at Wichita State University, then expanding to the entire airframe in 2021. Last March, a CTMA collaboration between NIAR and the B-1 SPO at Tinker Air Force Base was awarded a six-year 0M follow-on
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2023 CTMA Partners Meeting and NCMS Technology Showcase Ignites Innovation and Collaboration

06-23-2023
The 2023 CTMA Partners Meeting and NCMS Technology Showcase were exceptionally productive events. Along with hosting the Joint Robotics Organization for Building Organic Technologies (JROBOT) Summit VI and determining the 2023 CTMA Technology Competition winners, this year’s Partners Meeting featured the first-ever “Show Us Your Technology Workshop,” where participants collaborated on solutions to pressing DOD maintenance and sustainment needs. What’s more, attendees marked the 25th anniversary
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NCMS Announces Overall and People’s Choice Winners of the 2023 CTMA Technology Competition

06-08-2023
Ann Arbor, MI, June 8, 2023—The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) announced today that the US Air Force has been selected the Overall Award winner and Cumulus Digital Systems has been selected the People’s Choice Award winner of the 2023 CTMA Technology Competition. The contest is NCMS’s annual event that highlights innovations in maintenance and sustainment technologies. The US Air Force, for “Ultrasonically Activated De-Paint (UADP) Technology,” was selected as the Overall
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Finalists Announced for 2023 CTMA Technology Competition

05-03-2023
We are pleased to announce the six finalists for the 2023 CTMA Technology Competition, our annual event that highlights innovations in maintenance and sustainment technologies. Over 50 high-quality entries were received. A panel of judges selected the finalists for excellence in maintenance relevance or impact, originality and contribution to state-of-the-art solutions, technical maturity, cross-service applicability, and feasibility/practicality. The finalists are: Cumulus Digital
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Advanced Sensing and Blockchain Technologies Optimize Supply Chain Readiness

03-24-2023
As the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted supply chains in vital industries, the CTMA Program designed an initiative to prevent problems with the production and distribution of critical supplies in the event of future pandemics, natural disasters, cyberattacks, and emergencies such as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosives (CBRNE) situations. The collaboration—Advanced Sensing and Blockchain Technologies to Optimize Supply Chain Readiness—brings together two industry
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Audit Readiness Tool Enhances Software with Embedded AI

03-24-2023
As the tax filing deadline approaches, audits are the last thing many people want to discuss. Yet audits—in the broadest sense, not just tax-related—are beneficial for all organizations seeking to improve operations and achieve strategic objectives. A current CTMA project, Enhanced Audit Software Readiness Tool, brings together industry partner Ricardo Defense with the US Army Tank-Automotive & Armaments Command (TACOM). The team is using the Army’s Audit Readiness Tool (ART) as a
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ROV Brings New Success to Naval Asset Inspections

03-24-2023
For maintainers working to sustain large assets, such as Naval ships, it’s no longer necessary to perform the laborious, time-consuming work of manual structural assessments, using a hand-held probe, while elevated thirty feet in the air. A CTMA collaboration recently achieved exceptional success by using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) equipped with ultrasonic testing (UT) capabilities to inspect Naval assets. The initiative, a collaboration between the Office of the Secretary of Defense
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Celebrating the CTMA Program’s Longest-Running Technology: The Automated Wire Test Set (AWTS)

03-24-2023
The Department of Defense (DOD) has thousands of aircraft consisting of a dozen unique aviation platforms with extremely complex electronics. Maintaining these electronics is a constant challenge. The issue of intermittent faults in electronic devices—which the DOD defines as a “momentary discontinuity, a malfunction of a device or system that occurs at regular intervals”—will always exist, and currently costs the DOD billion annually. Intermittent faults are exceptionally difficult to
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BlastOne International

03-21-2023
BlastOne International is a leading global supplier of surface preparation products and technologies, including blasting and painting equipment, facilities, and abrasives. With 50 years of experience in the corrosion control industry, they help make abrasive blasting and industrial painting faster, safer, and cleaner. BlastOne works with heavy industries, facilities, and contractors to deliver long-term coating integrity, and has collaborated with the Navy and Army. Their focus is on
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NCMS Collaboration with US Air Force Mobility Command Earns Recognition by US Senator

02-02-2023
A recent news story in NJBIZ shined a spotlight on an ongoing NCMS collaboration with US Air Force Mobility Command (AMC) known as the Airfield Autonomy Initiative (AAI). According to the January 31, 2023, article, US Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) highlighted his state’s receipt of .3M in federal funding for airport technology projects that include AAI in a recent press conference at the Atlantic City Airport in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. The funding, granted by the federal government
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Air Force Collaboration Secures US Global Cybersecurity Dominance Through a Lean-Agile Framework

12-15-2022
Last year’s ransomware attacks on the Colonial gas pipeline and JBS, a global leader in meat distribution, have exposed the need for commercial and government industries to prioritize their cybersecurity. To help this process, in November 2021 NCMS launched a collaboration between the US Air Force and BigBear.ai. This collaboration—Digital Transformation of Cyber Operations for Acquisition and Sustainment Operation—is using the US Air Force as a test bed to ensure that legacy acquisition and
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“T-Glass” Eyepiece Supports Maintenance Professionals

12-15-2022
Imagine having the ability to instantly access needed technical manuals and part data without having to stop your work to search through heavy hardcovers or scroll through a digital text. That’s the goal of a current CTMA project that is producing the T-Glass, a wearable eyepiece with audible, hands-free search functions and data-gathering capabilities. While wearing the T-Glass, maintainers will be able to access needed data, in the periphery of their line of sight, so they can continue
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Tele-manufacturing Goes to Sea: Bringing Remote and Automated Processes onto Deployed Vessels

12-15-2022
By Connie LaMorte, Howard Marotto, and Lindsey Lindamood In August 2022, EWI was selected by NCMS to attend the inaugural Repair Technology Engagement Exercise (REPTX) to demonstrate our technologies aboard the Navy’s Self-Defense Test Ship (SDTS). This event, held at Naval Base Ventura County in Port Hueneme, CA, was sponsored by the NAVSEA Technology Office and provided an opportunity to showcase technologies that can solve fleet expeditionary maintenance and battle-related support
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2022 Year in Review: Live Events Return

12-15-2022
CTMA Partners Meeting After a two-year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, nearly two hundred leaders from government, industry, and academia gathered at NCMS’s 2022 CTMA Partners Meeting, held May 3-5 in Virginia Beach, VA. Focused on advancing the development and adoption of key maintenance and sustainment (M&S) technologies, the Partners Meeting provided a forum for experts to exchange information about successful projects and to address challenges. Keynote speakers
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Advances in Lithium-Ion Battery Materials Expected to Lower US Electric Vehicle Costs

12-15-2022
While a variety of commercial electric vehicles (EVs) are available on the US market, there are several barriers to address before they achieve widespread adoption. Consumers are cost-conscious, averse to long charge times, and concerned about vehicle safety. A current CTMA collaboration is addressing these issues, aiming to increase the public’s adoption of electric vehicles and reduce the country’s petroleum dependence. “If you think about what’s going to stop somebody from buying an
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Meet ARSOME Technology

12-15-2022
As many schools, companies, and organizations pivoted to online school and work during the pandemic, investments in digital and immersive programs skyrocketed. While most organizations have returned to in-person or hybrid environments, there is still a strong and growing market for digital programs, systems, and applications. ARSOME Technology (ARSOME) provides full-service augmented, virtual, and mixed reality (AR/VR/XR) software development, working with companies and organizations to develop
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2022 Department of Defense Maintenance Innovation Challenge Winners Announced

12-13-2022
Orlando, FL, December 13, 2022—The Overall Award winner and the People’s Choice Award winner for the Department of Defense (DOD) Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) were announced today during the DOD Maintenance Symposium in Orlando, FL. The six finalists for the MIC presented their solutions to a packed audience on Monday, December 12. Today, judges announced that the Overall Award winner is E-Drill: A New Way to Remove Aircraft Fasteners, submitted by Jim Becker from Perfect Point EDM
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2022 Department of Defense Maintenance Innovation Challenge Winners Announced

DOD Mx Symposium to Spotlight MIC Awards and Next Generation Materiel Readiness

11-28-2022
We’re looking forward to the upcoming DOD Maintenance Symposium, to be held December 12-15, 2022, in Orlando, FL, with the theme Next Generation Materiel Readiness Forged through Data Advantage, Technology, and Innovation. Returning after a one-year hiatus, the annual Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) will be featured on Monday, December 12, 1300-1430. The six MIC finalists will vie for awards as they present their technologies, best business practices, and innovative maintenance
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Finalists Named for the 2022 Maintenance Innovation Challenge

10-26-2022
The DOD announced today that the six finalists for the 2022 Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) have been named. The Joint Technology Exchange Group (JTEG) principals reviewed and selected the finalists from a total of 92 outstanding entries. The finalists, listed in alphabetical order are: Cold Spray Pop Up Production Cell, submitted by Susan Simms, US Navy NAVSEA 05T / VRC Metal Systems E-Drill: A New Way to Remove Aircraft Fasteners, submitted by Jared Wright, NAVAIR Optic
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Cutting the Fossil Fuel Tether

10-11-2022
Rising gas prices, along with environmental concerns and governmental regulations, have amplified interest in reducing fossil fuel consumption, in part by transitioning to electric vehicles. A CTMA collaboration has helped America move closer to accomplishing this goal. Launched in 2021 and scheduled to wrap up in early 2023, the collaboration—Electric Propulsion and Storage Technologies to Increase Reliability and Reduce Reliance on Fossil Fuels—analyzed the costs and logistical hurdles
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Joint Intermittent Testing Working Group Announces Two New Military Performance Specifications (MIL-PRF) for Electronic Test Equipment

10-11-2022
The Joint Intermittent Testing Working Group (JIT WG) announced that MIL-PRF-32516A and MIL-PRF-32516/1 were both published on August 4, 2022. These new specifications represent new standards for electronic test equipment that must be met by military personnel who work on diagnosing intermittent faults. MIL-PRF-32516A “Electronic Test Equipment, Intermittent Fault Diagnostic (Electrical)” supersedes the March 2015 base document and covers the minimum performance requirements for
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NCMS Hosts Sold-Out Technology Showcase at Corpus Christi Army Depot

10-11-2022
NCMS’s July Technology Showcase at Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD)—the first showcase NCMS has held at this depot—was a huge success, attracting nearly 50 world-class exhibitors to demonstrate their maintenance and sustainment technologies to a sold-out crowd. “We could not be more pleased with the outcome of this technology showcase,” said Debbie Lilu, NCMS Vice President of Maintenance & Sustainment and Business Development. “We’re especially honored that the CCAD depot’s commander,
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Navy REPTX Event Tested Ship Maintenance Technologies Aboard Decommissioned Destroyer

10-11-2022
At the time this issue of the CTMA Connector went to press, the first-ever Repair Technology Exercise (REPTX) had just wrapped up in Port Hueneme, CA. NCMS was pleased to assist the US Navy with this successful exercise focused on keeping ships in top shape while at sea. REPTX was designed for government, academia, and industry participants to demonstrate and evaluate the viability and efficacy of products and services that expand the Navy’s ability to perform expeditionary maintenance
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NCMS Investigates Best Practices for Technology Transition

10-11-2022
The term “valley of death” is used throughout the business world to describe the difficulty of developing, demonstrating, and scaling promising new inventions into sustained use. The term is ubiquitous because only a tiny percentage makes the journey. Many have tried, but most have failed. In the summer of 2022, two NCMS interns, Katie Wells and Braden Crimmins, worked on cracking the code of technology transition through an internship program run by the University of Michigan’s Tauber
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Meet Globe Tech

10-11-2022
Over the last twenty years, what was once a one room tool and die shop has grown to a world-class facility with more than 70 diverse and dynamic employees. Globe Tech was founded in 2003, and although its core business has evolved, its primary principle remains unchanged: Globe Tech serves those who serve. As a woman-owned small business (WOSB), Globe Tech manufactures world-class systems and components to serve a broad array of customers, ranging from all military branches, to tier-one
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NCMS Industry Partners Shine in the Spotlight at Recent Events

09-26-2022
Recently, we were honored to support the first #REPTX and host a Technology Showcase at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility. The first Repair Technology Exercise (REPTX) successfully brought together over sixty technology innovators for live demonstrations of solutions to help expand the US Navy’s ability to perform expeditionary maintenance operations. NCMS assisted the Navy with identifying and vetting industry and academic participants to demonstrate and
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NCMS Supports Navy’s First REPTX Demonstration of Ship Maintenance Technologies Aboard Decommissioned Destroyer

09-13-2022
The first Repair Technology Exercise (REPTX) successfully brought together over sixty technology innovators to help expand the US Navy’s ability to perform expeditionary maintenance operations. NCMS assisted the Navy with identifying and vetting industry and academic participants to demonstrate and evaluate the viability and efficacy of products and services that support the Navy’s sustainment capabilities. From August 22 through September 2, technology innovators tested their products’
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NCMS Investigates Best Practices for Technology Transition

09-11-2022
The term “valley of death” is used throughout the business world to describe the difficulty of developing, demonstrating, and scaling promising new inventions into sustained use. The term is ubiquitous because only a tiny percentage makes the journey. Many have tried, but most have failed. In the summer of 2022, two NCMS interns, Katie Wells and Braden Crimmins, worked on cracking the code of technology transition through an internship program run by the University of Michigan’s Tauber
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Joint Intermittent Testing (JIT) Working Group Announces Two New Military Performance Specifications (MIL-PRF) for Electronic Test Equipment

09-08-2022
The Joint Intermittent Testing (JIT) Working Group announced that MIL-PRF-32516A and MIL-PRF-32516/1 were both published on August 4, 2022. These new specifications represent new standards for electronic test equipment that must be met by military personnel who work on diagnosing intermittent faults. MIL-PRF-32516A “Electronic Test Equipment, Intermittent Fault Diagnostic (Electrical)” supersedes the March 2015, base document and covers the minimum performance requirements for equipment to
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NCMS Supports Navy’s New REPTX Event to Test Dozens of Ship Maintenance Technologies Aboard Decommissioned Destroyer

08-23-2022
Ann Arbor, MI, August 23, 2022—NCMS is pleased to assist the US Navy with keeping ships in top shape while at sea through the new Repair Technology Exercise (REPTX), taking place Aug. 22 through Sept. 2 at Naval Base Ventura County. More than sixty technology suppliers are testing their products’ capacity to tackle real-world fleet maintenance challenges, including assessing and repairing potential battle damage during REPTX’s 12 days of technical demonstrations and field experiments aboard
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NCMS Supports Navy’s New REPTX Event to Test Dozens of Ship Maintenance Technologies Aboard Decommissioned Destroyer

NCMS Supports the DOD’s 2022 Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC)

08-04-2022
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is pleased to support the DOD’s 2022 Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) by providing ,000 of in-kind support to both the overall MIC winner and the “People’s Choice” winner. “NCMS understands that the MIC offers an important opportunity to find new solutions that advance the DOD’s maintenance and sustainment operations,” said Lisa Strama, NCMS President and CEO. “That’s why we’re pleased to contribute this support.” The
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NCMS Member Atmospheric Plasma Solutions (APS) Receives DOD’s APFIT Award

07-26-2022
Ann Arbor, MI, July 25, 2022— NCMS member Atmospheric Plasma Solutions (APS) has been awarded funding for their PlasmaBlast® precision surface preparation system from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E)) via a pilot program to Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT). APFIT aims to expeditiously transition technologies—with priority given to those developed by small businesses and/or nontraditional defense
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NCMS Opens New Office in Norfolk, Virginia

07-26-2022
NCMS has expanded its operations by opening a new office in Norfolk, VA. This new location is the fifth for the organization, joining existing offices in Ann Arbor, MI; Bremerton, WA; Aberdeen, MD; and Washington, DC. This new facility represents a deep commitment to our partners and will provide dedicated space for NCMS’s network to meet and plan collaborative projects. NCMS recently hosted the 2022 Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Partners Meeting where attendees
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Initiative Defines Requirements for Applying Predictive Maintenance Capabilities to Autonomous Vehicles

07-26-2022
In recent years, maintenance and sustainment professionals have increasingly been advancing predictive maintenance capabilities to catch and solve problems before they cause catastrophic failures. As the software and hardware used in vehicle systems becomes more complex, reactive vehicle maintenance becomes more challenging and expensive, necessitating increased investment in improving proactive maintenance. Recently, the CTMA Program launched an initiative designed to boost predictive
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Project Improves Sustainment Strategies for Critical but Rarely Used Equipment

07-26-2022
Across the US, commercial and governmental organizations maintain fleets of critical equipment that must be kept ready for handling emergencies, natural disasters, and hazardous materials. As this equipment ages, many municipalities struggle with sustaining these assets in a streamlined and cost-effective manner. Likewise, the Department of Defense faces similar challenges, particularly with the Boeing E-6B Mercury. This aircraft provides command and control of US nuclear forces, should
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CyManII To Survey Manufacturers Moving Toward Digital Transformation

07-26-2022
The US Department of Energy’s Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CyManII) has launched a survey based on its Cybersecurity Manufacturing Roadmap, which highlights 17 key challenges that manufacturers face during their digital transformation. The purpose of this survey is to understand industry priorities among these 17 challenges. Feedback regarding these challenges will be critical for CyManII as it continues its work to make US manufacturers the most cyber secure in the
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New Member Spotlight: Engineering USA

07-26-2022
Engineering USA provides Industry 4.0 digital engineering and manufacturing technologies across multiple industries, including automotive, aerospace, and defense. With clients such as NAVSEA, NAVAIR, NATO members, and defense manufacturers, the company improves weapons systems and mission readiness through digital transformation solutions for part design, redesign, production, supply chain, automation, depot and facility optimization, and monitoring the field. Engineering USA’s technologies
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Upcoming Tech Showcase to Connect Industry Partners with Navy Base’s Technology Insertion Group

07-26-2022
NCMS will host a Technology Showcase with Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF) on September 14–15, 2022, at the Kitsap Conference Center in Bremerton, Washington. Participating in this Technology Showcase will provide an unparalleled opportunity to spotlight new innovations for the PSNS & IMF Technology Insertion Group, which is committed to transitioning needed technologies into the shipyard. In recent years, the command’s innovation team
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Deadline Approaches for CTMA Projects To Use FY22 Funds

07-26-2022
The window to obligate expiring funding through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA)’s Cooperative Agreement will be closing soon. Funding must be received in-house no later than Monday, August 8, 2022, to leverage this contract vehicle for funds expiring in FY22. Consider utilizing the CTMA Cooperative Agreement to obligate your expiring funds to secure demonstrations, evaluations, and validations of maintenance and sustainment technologies. Please plan
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NCMS Member Atmospheric Plasma Solutions (APS) Receives DOD’s APFIT Award

NCMS Board Member Selected as Executive Director for Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute

06-28-2022
NCMS sends congratulations to our friend and NCMS Board of Directors member, Dr. Thomas Kurfess, on being named executive director of the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute (GTMI). Dr. Kurfess has served as a member of our board for many years, providing thought leadership and expertise. We look forward to working with Tom as he transitions into his new role at GTMI. Georgia Tech issued the following press release to announce his appointment. The Georgia Institute of Technology has
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Corpus Christi Army Depot Seeks Innovative Solutions for NCMS Technology Showcase

06-21-2022
Register now for this rare opportunity to showcase your innovative technology solutions to a wide range of M&S leaders, managers, and artisans at the NCMS Technology Showcase held for the first time at Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) this July 13-14, 2022. Since the event coincides with CCAD’s next change of command, the depot’s commander and managing directors will be in attendance. CCAD—the Army’s premier helicopter overhaul and repair facility—is recognized as a DOD Center of
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New Tool Monitors Maintainers’ Health and Safety in Confined Spaces

06-21-2022
Insufficient oxygen supply, flammable or explosive atmospheres, and toxic gases are just a few of the hazards that maintainers could encounter while working in confined spaces. Because many atmospheric hazards are not detectable by sight or smell, technological innovations that detect and mitigate threats to maintainers’ safety are both necessary and valuable. To provide this vital technology, NCMS launched a collaboration in 2020 to develop and demonstrate a confined spaces monitoring
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CTMA Team Developing and Transitioning Cadmium and Hex Chrome-Free Solutions

06-21-2022
Cadmium (Cd) and hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) have long been widely used in DOD weapons systems, along with many aircraft, automobiles, trucks, and other large commercial vehicles because of their corrosion and wear-inhibiting properties. Yet both cadmium and hexavalent chromium (hex chrome) are known carcinogens. To protect maintainers and the environment, the CTMA Program launched a collaboration to replace parts plated with Cd and CR6+ for Army ground vehicles. The replacement chosen is
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Member Spotlight: Concurrent Technologies Corporation

06-21-2022
Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC) is an independent, nonprofit, applied scientific research and development (R&D) professional services organization. CTC collaborates with its technology transition affiliate, Enterprise Ventures Corporation (EVC), to seamlessly provide solutions from concept to production and beyond. Together they offer the unique ability to fully design, develop, test, prototype, and build. CTC supports clients’ missions with customized, full life-cycle
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NCMS President and CEO Lisa Strama Receives 2022 International Honor Award from SME

06-08-2022
Ann Arbor, MI, June 8, 2022—National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) President and CEO Lisa Strama has been recognized with a 2022 International Honor Award from SME, the nonprofit association of professionals, educators, and students committed to promoting and supporting the manufacturing industry.  Strama received the Donald C. Burnham Manufacturing Management Award, which recognizes exceptional success in the integration of the infrastructure and processes of manufacturing
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NCMS President and CEO Lisa Strama Receives 2022 International Honor Award from SME

2022 CTMA Partners Meeting Gathers Leaders from Government, Industry, and Academia to Advance Maintenance and Sustainment Technologies

05-26-2022
After a two-year hiatus, nearly two hundred leaders from government, industry, and academia gathered at NCMS’s 2022 Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Partners Meeting, held May 3-5 in Virginia Beach, VA. Focused on advancing the development and adoption of key maintenance and sustainment (M&S) technologies, the Partners Meeting provided a forum for experts to exchange information about successful projects and to address
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Advancements in Reverse Engineering Capabilities Improve Readiness, Lower Ongoing Maintenance Costs of Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicles

05-26-2022
When the military identifies an immediate need for new defensive equipment and vehicles, it pulls out the stops to rapidly field a solution. However, one challenge of rapid fielding is that often traditional documentation processes lag the production cycle, resulting in a lack of technical data packages (TDPs) detailing product fabrication requirements. This was the case concerning soldiers’ critical need for mine-resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicles. When circumstances required a
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Member Spotlight: GVS-RPB

05-26-2022
At the start of the pandemic, the world came to know and appreciate the importance of quality respirators and the ability to have easy access to them. GVS-RPB, a global filtration, and personal safety device manufacturer have earned its place in the spotlight for delivering these critically needed products. For decades, the team at GVS-RPB has been dedicated to the development of filtration and personal safety technologies and designing and manufacturing respiratory protection solutions. As
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Advances in Cold Spray and Additive Manufacturing to be Featured at Upcoming Pair of Meetings

05-26-2022
Worcester, Mass., a regional hub for tech startups in the Northeast, will host a pair of high-tech industry events relevant to maintenance and sustainment professionals in June. The Cold Spray Action Team (CSAT), and the Large Scale Additive Action Team (LSAAT) will convene June 21-23; CSAT will be at the DCU Center on June 21-22 and LSAAT will be at Polar Park on June 23. The two-day CSAT Hybrid 2022 event will focus on all aspects of cold spray additive manufacturing (CSAM), with speakers
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Corpus Christi Army Depot to Hold its First Technology Showcase in July

05-26-2022
The largest helicopter repair site in the world, Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD), will host its first NCMS Technology Showcase this July 13-15, 2022. CCAD, a 61-year-old depot located on the site of the Corpus Christi Naval Air Station (NAS), serves as the Army’s premier helicopter overhaul and repair facility. Also known for delivering world-class maintenance and overhaul training, CCAD represents a DOD Center of Industrial and Technical Excellence for rotary wing aircraft. The NCMS
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CODE 1000i | Shipyard Innovation Through NCMS

05-02-2022
From "Salute" April 28, 2022. Written by: Silvia Klatman After taking a one-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility’s Technology Showcase came roaring back in the summer of 2021, offering hundreds of teammates the opportunity to check out industry’s latest innovations. In the six months since the event, people have been working behind-the-scenes to determine which technologies will
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2022 CTMA Partners Meeting Registration Deadline Extended to April 22

04-13-2022
Event To Offer Unparalleled Opportunities for M&S Community Register now for the 2022 CTMA Partners Meeting, the only event that brings DOD, industry, and academia together to solve maintenance and sustainment (M&S) challenges, develop new partnerships, and learn about innovative existing and emerging technologies. It will be held in-person May 3-5, 2022, at the Delta Hotels Virginia Beach Bayfront Suites in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Note that the deadline to register has been
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Rapid and Agile 3D Scanner with Micron Accuracy Advances Non-Destructive Inspection

04-13-2022
Sustaining jet engine blades requires maintainers to identify problems including geometric wear, poor surface quality, leading-edge wear, coating wear-off, and the location and size of cavities. Prompt repairs of these issues prevents engine failures and saves expensive assets. Yet each maintenance action increases costs. The DOD prioritizes maintenance expenditure reduction by its increasing use of condition-based maintenance (CBM+). To enhance materiel availability at the lowest possible
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CTMA Collaboration Integrates Teamcenter at NAVAIR FRCs to Support Aircraft Sustainment

04-13-2022
Over the past decade, numerous industries have adopted product lifecycle management (PLM) software that integrates design, engineering, production, cost, and maintenance data into a digital thread, providing manufacturers and end users a multi-functional view of a product’s life cycle. PLM software facilitates quality improvements, cost reductions, supply-chain flexibility, and more informed decision making. In 2020, the CTMA Program completed a collaboration with Siemens that utilized PLM
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Member Spotlight: Atmospheric Plasma Solutions

04-13-2022
Winner of the 2019 CTMA Technology Competition, Atmospheric Plasma Solutions (APS) is dedicated to advancing plasma technology. Located in the world-renowned Research Triangle region of North Carolina, APS is a leader in the cutting-edge, rapidly expanding field of plasma technology. The company designs and currently builds in-house high-performance plasma power supplies and delivery systems that harness plasma’s power for a wide variety of applications and industries. APS has strategic ties
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Keynote Speakers Announced for Upcoming CTMA Partners Meeting

03-21-2022
The highly anticipated 2022 CTMA Partners Meeting, scheduled for May 3-5 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, has announced this year’s keynote speakers: Steven J. Morani Steven J. Morani is a member of the Senior Executive Service and currently serves as the Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment. In this capacity, he is the principal staff assistant and advisor to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and the principal logistics official within the
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CTMA Collaboration Helps to Build One of the Largest 3D Metal Printers

03-21-2022
The US Army’s Jointless Hull project is developing one of the world’s largest 3D metal printers—capable of printing components as large as 20 feet x 30 feet x 12 feet—thanks in part to the work of a CTMA collaborative project entitled “Optimizing Facilities to Ensure Reliability and Maintainability of Large 3D Metal Printers.” The CTMA initiative combines the expertise of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and three Department of Defense partners: US Army Combat Capabilities Development
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Naval History Group’s Display Aircraft Inspection Initiative Safeguards Valuable Artifacts

03-21-2022
Public displays of US Navy aircraft, spanning a sixty-year history from WWII to Desert Storm, demonstrate the technological advancements that have made our country’s air power the most formidable force on earth. Yet, until 2014, the Department of Defense (DOD) had not been briefed on the condition of approximately 1,200 static historical displays of Navy aircraft on loan to 256 borrowers globally. That year, NCMS launched a multi-phase CTMA collaboration, “Naval History and Heritage Command
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New Member Spotlight: Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII)

03-21-2022
HII is a global engineering and defense technologies provider with a 135-year history of trusted partnerships. A leader in mission-driven solutions, HII assists the Department of Defense (DOD) by developing, integrating, and managing the sensors, systems, and other assets necessary to support intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The ISR group handles exploitation and analysis for a variety of government agencies. Its range of solutions includes sensors and systems,
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NCMS’s Strategic Partnership Between the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) and the B-1 System Program Office (SPO) at Tinker Air Force Base Awarded 100M Contract

03-15-2022
Ann Arbor, MI, March 15, 2022—The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is pleased to announce that, on 15 March 2022, the B-1 System Program Office (SPO) at Tinker AFB, OK, awarded a six-year 0M follow-on contract to Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) to continue the B-1’s Digital Engineering (DE) transformation. NCMS helped form the strategic partnership and created a flexible contract structure, which allows NIAR and the B-1 SPO to adapt
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NCMS’s Strategic Partnership Between the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) and the B-1 System Program Office (SPO) at Tinker Air Force Base Awarded 100M Contract

AMPED Project Advances Additive Manufacturing in Army Aviation

02-24-2022
In recent years, the US Army aviation community has made great progress in utilizing metal additive manufacturing (AM) technology to fabricate individual structural components needed to repair aircraft. Now the Army wants to advance metal AM manufacturing capacity to produce primary structure and mission-critical parts. “This CTMA project, Additive Material Property Evaluation, and Demonstration (AMPED), will accelerate the use of AM for Army aviation,” says Colton Butcher, the NCMS Project
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Member Spotlight: DAES Group

02-24-2022
DAES Group is a global equipment and solution source supporting aerospace OEMs, commercial airlines, military, and MROs since 1994. DAES drives value to our clients through consulting support, business operations management, technical assistance, quality control, training, facilities improvement, capital equipment, tools, component repair and after-sales services. When working with DOD partners, our focus is delivering maintenance technologies that contribute to improved and sustained mission
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Registration Opens for 2022 CTMA Partners Meeting

02-24-2022
NCMS is thrilled to announce that, after a two-year hiatus, our highly anticipated 2022 CTMA Partners Meeting will be held in person May 3-5, 2022, at the Delta Hotel in Virginia Beach, Virginia. We cordially invite you to attend this special event—the only forum exclusively devoted to improving Department of Defense (DOD) maintenance and sustainment. Register now, as attendance will be capped to 200 individual attendees and 30 exhibitors to ensure that all participants will have the
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Member Spotlight: Boston Engineering

01-26-2022
Boston Engineering Corporation (www.boston-engineering.com) has been providing engineering consulting services for over 25 years. As an engineering design firm, Boston Engineering supports the entire product development process—from providing product engineering consulting to delivering the product lifecycle management
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Air Force to Use Computed Tomography to Ensure Quality Control for Additive Manufacturing Parts

01-26-2022
Additive manufacturing (AM) has been a game-changing technology for rapid prototyping and production in many industries, enabling more components to be manufactured domestically. As the Air Force increases its need for producing hard-to-source parts via AM, it is essential to develop quality control processes to validate flight-critical components. To achieve this objective, NCMS has collaborated with the Air Force and Comet Technologies USA for a CTMA project. Titled Computed Tomography for
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Simulators to Improve Medical Equipment Maintenance and Sustainment Training

01-26-2022
When service members’ lives are endangered during tactical operations, natural disasters, accidents, and medical emergencies, MEDEVAC personnel serve as a lifeline by providing care and transportation to treatment facilities. Increasingly, military forces operate over extended distances, requiring longer travel to medical centers for surgery or other procedures, which can put critical patients at risk. During transit by ground or air, MEDEVAC responders must maintain patients’ stability. As
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Developing Better Methods and Tools for Multi-Material Joining

12-17-2021
As the Army modernizes its combat fleet, it has identified the need for light weighting its vehicles. The need to be expeditionary is driving the need for a lightweight combat vehicle force that is more maneuverable and requires less maintenance. One challenge is finding suitable lightweight and high-performance materials for construction. Many new materials are not always viable due to production, finishing, and assembly issues. But a more significant challenge is developing methods
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RADIAC Technology Offers More Realistic Training for Those Who Work with Radiation Hazards

12-17-2021
The personnel who sustain radiological systems need state-of-the-art simulation training to learn how to handle worst-case scenarios without being exposed to actual radiological hazards. Yet existing trainings use outdated and unrealistic methods. To improve training for the radiological sustainment community, NCMS began a project in September 2020—Advanced Radiation Detection Indication and Computation (RADIAC) Technology—that gathers experts from four Naval shipyards (Puget Sound, Portsmouth,
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NCMS Announces Overall and People’s Choice Winners for 2021 CTMA Technology Competition

12-08-2021
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) announced both winners of the 2021 CTMA Technology Competition at the Finalists Presentation event on December 8, which was broadcast live over the web. The Overall Award winner is Pennsylvania State University Applied Research Lab (ARL), for a “Multifunctional Automated Repair System (MARS)” and the People’s Choice Award winner is Everactive, Inc., for a “Batteryless Remote Monitoring for the IIoT.” The contest is NCMS’s annual event that
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New Digital Twin Initiative Helps Navy Transform Its Data Into CBM System

11-29-2021
Maintaining fleet readiness for the US Navy has always required high-level planning involving mountains of data of diverse types and quality. Unfortunately, data alone cannot point the way to a better approach to maintenance and sustainment. The ability to collect appropriate data sets, integrate and analyze them with incorporation of domain knowledge, and produce an executable action plan is what’s needed to make sustainment operations more effective. The Department of Defense has long
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Member Spotlight: Total Quality Systems (TQS)

11-29-2021
TQS, Inc., has been providing systems engineering, enterprise software development, dating mining and analysis, and advanced testing systems and services to government and private industry clients since 1994. Veteran-owned and operated, TQS has extensive experience solving challenges throughout the entire supply chain, from procurement, sustainment analysis and planning, to maintenance, repair and overhaul. Within its systems engineering division, TQS has designed product lifecycle
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Air Force Coatings and Corrosion Topics Highilighted in "The ‘Insidious’ Enemy—Preserving Combat Performance"

11-19-2021
After decades of combat flying in the harsh Middle East environment, the Air Force embarked on an aggressive program to deal with an insidious problem that steals aircraft performance, greatly increases maintenance requirements, results in higher fuel consumption rates, and increases emissions. The culprit, the constant erosion and corrosion of high-pressure compressor (HPC) and turbofan (TF) blades due to environmental particulates (EPs). These small particulates include sand/dust,
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Showcase Booklet for 2021 CTMA Technology Competition Now Available

11-18-2021
NCMS has released its electronic version of the 2021 CTMA Technology Competition booklet, which showcases all 96 competition entries and highlights the six finalists. Filled with insights on the impact of CTMA and its annual competition, the booklet offers a vibrant representation of how the latest solutions for maintenance and sustainment challenges are being developed. The booklet can be viewed here. Furthermore, be sure to join us on Wednesday, December 8, 1–3 p.m. EST, for the 2021
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Six Finalists Selected for the 2021 CTMA Technology Competition

11-09-2021
NCMS recently announced that six finalists have been selected for the 2021 CTMA Technology Competition, its annual event that highlights innovations in maintenance and sustainment technologies. A record 96 entries were received this year. The judges, who represent leadership in the Joint Technology Exchange Group (JTEG), selected the finalists for excellence in maintenance relevance or impact, originality and contribution to state-of-the-art solutions, technical maturity, cross-service
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Member Spotlight: Ansys

10-21-2021
Founded in the U.S. in 1970 as a structural simulation solutions company, Pittsburgh-based Ansys has grown into a world-leading multi-physics simulation company that covers structures, fluids, electromagnetics, aerodynamics, semiconductors, thermal flow, optics, and mission-level aerospace challenges, among others. Ansys’ physics-based simulation solvers are being used in virtually every industry across the world, including aerospace, defense, automotive, additive manufacturing, autonomous
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Mobile Cold Spray Unit to Boost Repair Capabilities at Depots

10-21-2021
Solid-state additive manufacturing (SSAM) technologies have been growing in usage because they allow for relatively fast maintenance and sustainment of critical and costly metal components. Cold spray is a solid-state coating deposition method in which powdered metals are accelerated through a nozzle to velocities sufficient to cause plastic deformation and bonding. In this way, layers of new metal can be added to worn surfaces, which can refurbish components subject to corrosion or impact
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Member Spotlight: Snap-On Inc.

10-21-2021
Snap-On Tools is a well-known, respected manufacturer of tools for maintenance and sustainment professionals. While the company has existed for more than 100 years, it seems possible that its broad range of capabilities may not be as widely known. With its 28 wholly owned subsidiaries, this worldwide company can provide solutions for a wide range of industries, everything from aviation, to aerospace, to electronics, to mining, and military and defense. In fact, Snap-On has been
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The 21st Century Solution to Optimizing Critical Resource Planning

10-01-2021
NCMS Technology Briefs highlight NCMS’s cultivation and growth of innovative technologies. Through our management of government and industry collaborations, we’ve gained insights into novel approaches and best practices that can assist all companies navigate the sometimes-complex journey towards advancement. Based on the results of NCMS technology projects, the briefs show the applicability and usefulness of proven technical advances—all in an effort to speed adoption and eliminate duplication
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NCMS Technology Showcase featured in September Issue of Salute

09-27-2021
Originally published in Salute September 16, 2021 PSNS & IMF held a kick-off briefing the day before the event where Technology Insertion Office personnel and a representative from the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences helped department heads, division heads and innovation folks from throughout the command understand how they could best use the event to find capabilities that would help them solve problems and accomplish work more safely and effectively. “All shipyard
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Participating in the CTMA Technology Competition Brings Benefits—Exposure, Program Management, Funding

09-21-2021
For all who haven’t yet entered the CTMA Technology Competition, the window of opportunity is closing. The deadline for entering is Friday, October 1, 2021. The only requirements to participate are one quad chart and one abstract. The purpose of this competition is to bring more companies, especially small and medium-sized companies, to the attention of military partners searching for innovative technologies that can solve maintenance and sustainment challenges. And past entrants
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Innovative Advanced Braking and Suspension Systems Save Soldier’s Lives

09-21-2021
Military tactical vehicles are required to carry weapons systems, cutting-edge communications gear, and command capabilities, and to bear heavy blast protection. Originally designed to ferry personnel and equipment, most of these vehicles were not designed for all the extra requirements and weight. The Army’s High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), for example, was designed 40 years ago and was never intended to be a combat vehicle. With all the extra expectations for this vehicle,
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Puget Sound Event Showcased Cutting-Edge Technologies

09-21-2021
Bremerton, WA – The Kitsap Conference Center in Bremerton, Wash., buzzed with energy during the recent NCMS Technology Showcase with Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF). Fifty-two exhibitors were joined by 950 attendees eager to learn about innovative maintenance and sustainment technologies and processes to increase efficiency, lower costs, and address workplace safety. Matt Cady, PSNS & IMF product line director and innovation program
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Evolving Strategies for Initiating Product Lifecycle Management Processes

09-10-2021
NCMS Technology Briefs highlight NCMS’s cultivation and growth of innovative technologies. Through our management of government and industry collaborations, we’ve gained insights into novel approaches and best practices that can assist all companies navigate the sometimes complex journey towards advancement. Based on the results of NCMS technology projects, the briefs show the applicability and usefulness of proven technical advances—all in an effort to speed
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Summer Tauber Interns Receive Hands-On Experience in NCMS’s Digital Ecosystem

08-26-2021
For several years, NCMS has benefited from the talents of interns from the University of Michigan’s Tauber Institute for Global Operations (Tauber Institute). The NCMS projects provide the interns with valuable knowledge and expertise, engaging them in cutting-edge, real-time initiatives. The Tauber Institute is a joint venture between the University of Michigan’s Stephen M. Ross School of Business and the College of Engineering. This year’s interns, Liz Rubenson and Bryce Garver, have been
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NCMS Sources Sought Program Locates Hard-to-Find Technologies for the DOD

08-25-2021
The DOD maintenance and sustainment community is responsible for ensuring the country’s weapon systems are mission ready. But there are times when the lack of a single part or technology can make the difference between on-time delivery, rapid repair, or an asset grounded. In those circumstances program managers, engineers, and supervisors depend on collaborative relationships to assist with locating exactly what is needed. In 2017 while visiting Tinker Air Force Base, NCMS Vice President,
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Enter Your Innovations in the 2021 CTMA Technology Competition 

08-25-2021
The CTMA Technology Competition provides an opportunity for both commercial and government sources to showcase innovative ways of making maintenance and sustainment operations more agile, effective, efficient, and affordable. The review and selection process will be overseen by top DOD maintenance leaders, providing great exposure to the top six finalists as well as the two winners.  Submissions are encouraged by the government, academia, and industry.  The submission period is now
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Monthly JTEG Forums Provide Insight into DOD Maintenance and Sustainment Needs

08-25-2021
he Joint Technology Exchange Group (JTEG) is tasked with improving coordination for the introduction of new or improved technology, new processes, or new equipment into DOD depot maintenance activities. Each month JTEG hosts forums that present information regarding new maintenance and sustainment developments. JTEG invites government, industry, and academia subject matter experts to contribute their knowledge and insights to these forums to advance maintenance and sustainment activities and
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DOD Promotes Additive Manufacturing Expansion, Standardization, Training Through New Policies, Collaboration

07-30-2021
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) would like to spotlight a recent news article by the US Department of Defense (DOD) announcing it has developed new policies and programs to support the expansion, standardization and availability of training for additive manufacturing (AM). NCMS has collaborated with the DOD on numerous projects that have broadened the use of AM processes for a wide range of military efforts. The DOD’s new steps to enable greater use of AM will no doubt
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New Technology Brief Program Launched

07-29-2021
NCMS has launched a new periodic communication, called the NCMS Technology Briefs, which will highlight NCMS’s cultivation and growth of innovative technologies. Through our management of government and industry collaborations, we’ve gained insights into novel approaches and best practices that can assist all companies navigate the sometimes-complex journey towards advancement. Based on the results of NCMS technology projects, the briefs show the applicability and usefulness of proven technical
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Airless Tire Technology is a Game Changer for the U.S. Army

07-26-2021
In 2019 a U.S. Army team took an airless tire on a trip to the Amazon rainforest to test the technology on the Army’s Light Tactical All-Terrain Vehicles (LTATV) to see how it would hold up in extreme conditions. While sleeping in an austere CONEX encampment (aka “Resort”) and trying to avoid the myriad of hazardous flora and fauna, the team was surprised by how well the airless tire held up to the challenge. But this came as no surprise to Nathan Kamprath, Special Systems and Components
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NCMS Remembers Longtime Friend and Colleague Gabe Draguicevich

07-26-2021
On June 15, 2021, NCMS lost a colleague, an enthusiastic supporter, and friend. Gabriel Draguicevich (or just Gabe as most people called him) was a division director for new technologies in the Facilities & Infrastructure Management Department at the Naval Air Command, Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW) in Coronado, California. This role within the maintenance, repair, and overhaul engineering arena provided a fitting stage for his talents
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New Guideline on Intermittent Fault Detection To Appear in DOD Electronic Equipment Guidance

07-26-2021
Intermittent fault issues are an ongoing problem for electronics across the military. Those that occur in a line replaceable unit/weapon replaceable assembly (LRU/WRA) and weapon systems electrical wiring interconnect system (EWIS) are a challenge for several critical Department of Defense (DOD) platforms, especially aircraft. These intermittent faults―temporary and seemingly random shorts, breaks, and other failures―cost billions of dollars, jeopardize mission success, and reduce readiness.
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In-person events are back and better than ever—Six reasons to attend

07-22-2021
It seems hopeful that pandemic restrictions will continue to be lifted and more activities for large groups can be planned. Slowly and with caution, face-to-face events are re-emerging as the preferred method of conducting and growing business. NCMS has four in-person technology showcases coming in the next few months, which will bring key DOD decision-makers together with industries that have innovative maintenance and sustainment technologies. Seeing technology, live and in person, has some
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Summer Tauber Interns Get Hands-On Experience in NCMS’s Digital Ecosystem

06-18-2021
For several years, NCMS has invested in supporting the University of Michigan’s Tauber Institute for Global Operations. One result of that investment is that we acquire the talents of interns who are completing their masters’ programs at U of M. The Tauber Institute is a joint venture between the U of M’s Stephen M. Ross School of Business and the College of Engineering, giving these students knowledge and perspectives relevant to NCMS work. The current interns are ready to tackle a
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Innovation Expo Provides Face-To-Face Knowledge Sharing Opportunities

06-18-2021
NCMS proudly partnered with Carrier Team One to host the Innovation Expo on June 9 at the Wyndham Bayside in San Diego. As part of this year’s Annual Carrier Community Event, industries gathered to demonstrate innovative technology that would assist with fleet availability. The objective of the event was to engage in dialogue about what the future looks like for carrier maintenance. Each of the three days, guest speakers provided perspectives from naval, civilian, and military leadership.
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The 2021 CTMA Magazine is now available!

06-18-2021
Now in its ninth year, the 2021 CTMA Magazine provides readers with new informative articles highlighting maintenance and sustainment solutions and technologies being developed for future use. The magazine includes a special tribute section to long-time CTMA colleague Greg Kilchenstein. NCMS highlights Greg’s impact on materiel readiness in “Accelerating M&S Technologies,” written by NCMS President and CEO Lisa Strama. With an emphasis on how NCMS is dedicated to a relentless focus on key
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Automated Technology Increases Efficiency and Lengthens Life of Composite Rotor Blades

05-26-2021
Regular maintenance on H-53 rotary wing aircraft involves hazardous, time-consuming work. Each aircraft has seven composite blades that require regular resurfacing to ensure balance and proper coating to prevent cracks and corrosion. It can take maintenance artisans approximately 24 hours to carefully sand away the top layer of paint and the primer while carefully avoiding damage to the underlying composite substrate. Not only is this task time-consuming and tedious, but it also creates a
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CTMA Effort Brings Domestic Source of Popular Carbon Fiber to U.S. Army

05-26-2021
Due to its lightweight, strength, functionality, low cost, and durability, carbon fiber is a popular choice for the commercial vehicle industry. Not surprisingly, the U.S. Army has wanted to investigate the viability of this composite material for their Next Generation Combat vehicles. Currently, most carbon fiber comes from China. The Army’s goal has been to develop a domestic source. New U.S.-based technology can now deliver U.S.-sourced carbon fibers and graphite through a process using
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CSAT 2021 Virtual Tickets

05-26-2021
As part of the hybrid event model, the CSAT 2021 meeting on June 22 – 23 is offering virtual tickets available via their registration site. Virtual attendees can participate remotely while following along with the same agenda and same speakers as the in-person session. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/virtual-csat-2021-tickets-130023240011?aff=NCMS Virtual Registration: Free Virtual Government + All-Access Registration: Free Virtual + All-Access Registration: Looking to know the
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Plasma Technology Ignites Ideas for a Myriad of Potential Uses

05-26-2021
For the Navy, surface preparation for ships and boats is an arduous yet critical task. To avoid corrosion and protect the structure of the vessel, existing surfaces must be cleaned of all remnants of prior paint as well as any element, such as salt or sand, that may have gotten underneath. The most difficult aspect of that work involves coating removal in small or awkward spaces and around bolts, seams, and joints. Sandblasting is the current method for paint removal, which is messy, difficult,
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Maintenance Collaboration Speeds Ship Availability

04-28-2021
During a recent NAVSEA Industry Innovation Partnership (NIPP) call, Technical Insertion Managers shared maintenance and sustainment success stories and best practices. James Calverley, an engineer at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNY & IMF), mentioned the positive impact of the automated hydro-lancing system used to clean condenser tubes that was recently demonstrated at PSNY & IMF through the CTMA Program. Ship availability is a challenge faced by
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Get to Know New NCMS Members

04-28-2021
NCMS would like to introduce a few new members to our network. Each of our members brings excellence in their respective fields and is a world-class organization. Read more about their capabilities below. AGFM ADVANCED MANUFACTURING AND REPAIR PROCESSES AND EQUIPMENT From the 1940s to today, the GFM worldwide organization has developed unique, highly productive, reliable machine tools and systems for manufacturing and more recently for repair. GFM was founded in Steyr Austria in 1945,
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2021 CTMA Magazine coming in May!

04-28-2021
A special edition of our Annual CTMA Magazine will be available in late May, featuring these highlights: Collaborating in the Digital Environment Enhanced Simulation and Training Initiatives Automated Maintenance and Sustainment Innovations Evaluated by the Navy CTMA Technology Transition Success Stories Special Tribute to a Long-Time CTMA Partner And Much More! Print and digital versions will be available. To receive your print version of the CTMA Connector please email
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NCMS Board of Director Dr. Thomas Kurfess and CyManII CEO Dr. Howard Grimes Pen: The Role of the Digital Thread for Security, Resilience, and Adaptability in Manufacturing

04-06-2021
The manufacturing sector is dramatically evolving with recent technical and digital advances. Among these, the digital thread is revolutionizing manufacturing operations well beyond the historic downloading of programs to computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools and the uploading of edited programs from CNC controllers. The digital thread is “the communication framework that enables a connected data flow and integrated view of the asset’s data throughout its lifecycle across
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CTMA Initiative Facilitates a Safety Upgrade

03-24-2021
The U.S. Army depends on its tactical ground vehicles to transport troops, carry munitions, contain communications equipment to act as a mobile command center, and evacuate and care for the wounded. These vehicles, such as the Bradley Fighting Vehicles (BFV), are essential assets yet have been tasked with performing beyond their intended lifespans leaving them vulnerable to certain design challenges that become more pronounced over time. One design element that has been upgraded is their Towing
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CTMA Project, the Advanced Mobile Universal Electrical Tool (AMUET) Technology from Solavitek Awarded for Reducing Troubleshooting on Aircraft

03-24-2021
Congratulations to Solavitek and Technologies Harness Scanner as their technology AMUET received the 412TW the Annual Medallion Award for the Innovation Team category. The AMUET technology, introduced to the Air Force through a CTMA initiative, is a critical component to advance the U.S. Air Force's electrical Flightline capabilities and the Flightline of the future. Please read more about how the AMUET Technology is assisting the Airman of the 412th Maintenance Group to reduce
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3D Systems’ Metal Additive Manufacturing Solutions Selected by Raytheon Technologies and CCDC Army Research Laboratory for Novel Thermal Application

03-09-2021
Congratulations to the NCMS members 3D Systems, Raytheon Technologies, the Penn State Applied Research Lab, Johns Hopkins University, and Identify3D on being selected to optimize a component relative to an Army modernization product to maximize cooling and improve overall system performance. ROCK HILL, South Carolina, February 11, 2021 – 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) today announced the company has been selected by Raytheon Technologies and the Combat Capabilities Development Command
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The 412th Maintenance Group (MXG) at Edwards Air Force Base (AFB) California selected the 412th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron’s Advanced Mobile Universal Electrical Tooling (AMUET) Team as the Annual Innovation Team Award Winner for 2020.

03-03-2021
The Annual Innovation Team Award recognizes technologies ranked by the Selection Committee based on the positive impact a technology will have for the warfighter and national security. The Selection Committee aims to elevate maintenance innovation to include not only new technology, hardware, and software but also unique partnerships, resourcing strategies, business practices, or processes that promise to make maintenance more capable, agile, and affordable. The technology is the AMUET
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US Army Finds Success Through CTMA: Collaboration cornerstone of antenna mount relocation

03-03-2021
REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. – Tough problems require teamwork. When the CH-47 Chinook D model was upgraded to F, the installation of the Compact On-loading Off-loading System flooring eliminated the cable routing for the Telemetry Engagement Simulation System antenna. Part of a kit installed temporarily for Combat Aviation Training, the TESS antenna provides GPS capability for war games that help prepare Soldiers for battle. It was a readiness challenge U.S. Army Combat Capabilities
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NAVAIR Industrial Optimization Plan Will Address Current Issues and Future Needs

02-23-2021
The CTMA Program has been the perfect venue for launching the digital modeling and simulation initiatives for optimizing shipyard infrastructure. In addition to that ongoing effort, the NAVAIR Fleet Readiness Centers (FRCs), partnering with Siemens Government Technologies, are creating a digital model and simulation plan that will make an impact at the equipment and process level. On-time performance for aircraft completed at the Navy’s three aviation depots has met with scheduling
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Data Ontology Changes Maintenance Paradigm on a Global Scale

02-23-2021
Within the DOD, each Service, code, shop, and department may be using different terms to refer to the same part or process. This lack of ontology alignment between the various maintenance environments causes bottlenecks, delays in maintenance activity, supply chain inefficiencies, and a lack of weapons systems readiness. Within a machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) eco-system, nonuniform data become problematic. The Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC) is the
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2020 Maintenance Innovation Challenge Winner Uses Augmented Reality to Enhance Aircraft Readiness

02-23-2021
Even though the DOD Maintenance Symposium was canceled due to travel restrictions, the popular Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) remained a “GO.” With a record-breaking 128 submissions, the panel of judges had a tall task to narrow the field to six finalists and ultimately choose the winner. For the first time in MIC’s history, the same submission won both the Overall MIC Award as well as the People’s Choice Award. The CREATIVE Lab, part of the Naval Air Warfare Center Lakehurst took home
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Highlight Your Technology in the 2021 CTMA Magazine

02-23-2021
The 2021 CTMA Magazine development is currently underway and NCMS is once again providing the opportunity for you to place an ad in the publication. With a wide readership from both government and industry maintenance and sustainment professionals, your company can gain visibility and connect with decision-makers. In 2020 we produced both a printed version as well as an interactive digital version of the magazine to great reviews. Here are some statistics from our digital version:
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NCMS Members Senvol and Oak Ridge National Laboratory Publish Report on Pedigree Additive Manufacturing Data

02-08-2021
Technical report titled “Collection of High Pedigree AM Data for Data Analysis and Correlation.” Senvol and the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have published a technical report titled “Collection of High Pedigree AM Data for Data Analysis and Correlation.” The findings of the report stem from a two-year cooperative research and development agreement focused on pedigreed additive manufacturing (AM) data generation. Senvol worked with ORNL to
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Universal Synaptics Portable Intermittent Fault Detector™ Achieves F-35 Joint Program Office Authority to Operate

02-02-2021
Congratulations to NCMS members Universal Synaptics and Lockheed Martin on the announcement today that the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) has approved and authorized the Portable Intermittent Fault Detector™ (PIFD™) for use by all F-35 JPO Program Management Offices and at all JPO-sponsored facilities. The PFID is the only approved Electrical Wiring Interconnect System (EWIS) tester approved for use on F-35 JSF global program. View full press release here:
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Digitizing Systems Sustainment for Presidential Helicopter through CTMA

01-28-2021
As maintaining legacy equipment becomes more important and yet more challenging for the DOD, the CTMA Program is a popular go-to vehicle for solving the toughest maintenance and sustainment hurdles. But lessons learned with legacy equipment will also benefit new platforms to maintain high levels of mission-ready equipment. The fleet of 23 NAVAIR VH-92A helicopters, also known as the Presidential Helicopter squadron, is tasked with transporting the sitting U.S. President and other high-level
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Save the Date: NCMS Hosts Second Technology Showcase at the U.S. Naval Shipyard, Yokosuka, Japan May 12-13

01-28-2021
With a mission of “anticipating and providing fleet service and support needs on demand,” the U.S. Naval Shipyard Yokosuka has asked NCMS to host a second Technology Showcase, May 12-13, 2021. The shipyard is challenged with providing extended service to their fleet in a high tempo environment, yet they don’t have access to all the latest technologies that their counterparts at domestic facilities do. The following is an initial list of desired technologies: Virtual Reality Training
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Steve McKee wins OSD Award for Excellence

01-28-2021
Congratulations to long-time NCMS friend and partner, Steve McKee, Naval Enterprise Sustainment Technology Team (NESTT) Lead. On Friday, December 18, 2020 he received the Office of the Secretary of Defense Award for Excellence. McKee was instrumental in standing up the Joint Robotics Organization for Building Organic Technologies (JROBOT) that is tasked with: Developing Right-sized Robotics Solutions for Sustainment Rapid and Agile Acquisition Business Process and Data Quality
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Join Composite Repair Webinar Hosted by New NCMS Member AGFM and NIAR

01-25-2021
NCMS is proud to welcome our newest member, AGFM Corp, Chesapeake, VA to our network. AGFM develops highly precise special machines for industrial applications in the area of metal and composite processing. Their innovative product offerings include composite-related machine tools/automated systems for the manufacture of advanced composites aerospace components, plus CNC crankshaft milling machines, and rotary forging machines for forging gun barrels, and other rotary forging
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NCMS Member Markforged Distributes its 3D Printers to Project DIAMOnD to Print Emergency PPE

01-20-2021
Markforged, an NCMS member and creator of the world’s largest metal and carbon fiber additive manufacturing platform, the Digital Forge, today announced that it has distributed its first wave of 3D printers to manufacturers in Michigan as part of Project DIAMOnD. An initiative created by Automation Alley, Project DIAMOnD is dedicated to improving manufacturers’ agility and resiliency by helping them scale up their Industry 4.0 activity. More than 200 manufacturers have already received their
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A Record Year for CTMA

12-17-2020
2020 was a year marked by resiliency for NCMS and the CTMA Program. In-person events shifted to virtual, and government and industry partners adjusted to the changing work environments. But with all that, the CTMA Program executed more contracts and projects in 2020 than ever before infusing innovative maintenance and sustainment technologies to enhance warfighter readiness and support mission success. A few milestones are detailed below. NCMS is awarded CTMA Program Cooperative
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Naval Air Warfare Center, Lakehurst takes both MIC Overall and People’s Choice Award

12-17-2020
Congratulations to the Creative Lab at Naval Air Station Warfare Center—Aircraft Division Lakehurst for receiving both the Overall Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) as well as the People’s Choice Awards for their submission, Augmented Reality Remote Maintenance Support Service (ARRMSS). Their presentation impressed the panel of judges and the event attendees as an excellent example of revolutionary and evolutionary maintenance and sustainment technology. ARRMSS is an application framework
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Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex: A Culture of Success

12-02-2020
NCMS is pleased to share this great news! Eclypse International’s Automatic Wire Test Set was introduced to Warner Robins Air Force Base through a CTMA Program initiative. It enables organic support of a key technical capability that saves up to 2,000 labor hours a year on F-15 maintenance and provides safe, reliable, combat-ready aircraft to the warfighter. Read the full article here:
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New Antenna Mount Ensures Soldiers are Battle Ready

11-19-2020
The Program Executive Office for Simulations, Training, and Instrumentation (PEO STRI) has been around since 1950. Currently, there are over 335,000 training devices available to Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines worldwide providing more than 90% training availability of fielded systems. The PEO STRI mission is simple, providing the warfighter with the most relevant and realistic training while optimizing human performance. Training is so important that when one system is compromised it could
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Meet CTMA Project Manager Susan Shaw

11-19-2020
Susan Shaw comes to CTMA project management from a slightly different perspective. Rather than industry or military, Shaw combines her hospitality and contracts experience to provide both her government and industry partners great customer service, attention to detail, and risk reduction foresight. A Michigan native, Shaw attended Michigan State University where she received her bachelor’s in Business with an emphasis in Hospitality. Hired by the Hilton Corporation, she traveled the county
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3D Systems Unveils Advancements in Creation of World’s Largest, Fastest Powder Metal 3D Printer for CCDC Army Research Laboratory

11-16-2020
3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) today announced it has achieved significant progress in the creation of the world’s largest, fastest most precise powder metal 3D printer. Through a combination of multiple lasers, large build chamber, and unique material deposition processes, the Company is poised to enable the Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Army Research Laboratory (ARL) with technology designed to address their specific application needs for long-range munitions, next-generation combat
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Six Finalists Announced for the 2020 Maintenance Innovation Challenge

11-12-2020
The Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) is an important venue to present innovative technologies in front of a large cross-section of DOD decision-makers The MIC aims to elevate and expand the call for maintenance innovation to include not only new technology, hardware, and software but also unique partnerships, resourcing strategies, business practices, or processes that promise to make maintenance more capable, agile, and affordable. The Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for
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Program Executive Officer Ground Combat System Combat Capabilities Development Command

10-30-2020
The Air Force chose to utilize the CTMA Program to conduct demonstrations and evaluations of this innovative inspection technology. Computed Tomography for Quality Control for Additive Manufacturing Parts, is a collaborative initiative that brings industry and the Air Force together to advance warfighter readiness. The tradition of expediting innovation initiatives that help improve operational efficiency, maintain Air Force readiness, and significantly reduce the time and money that is
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2019 CTMA Technology Competition Winner Impresses Norfolk Naval Shipyard

10-20-2020
Atmospheric Plasma Solutions won the 2019 CTMA Technology Competition, which included K toward a CTMA project with the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Now that the year-long project is concluding, there is great optimism about the future of the PlasmaBlast® technology transitioning into the DOD and some lessons learned. Atmospheric Plasma Coating Removal (APCR) is a breakthrough de-painting technology that does not require media, requires no containment and no damage to the substrate. Using
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Eclypse International Wiring Technology Garners Rave Reviews and M Award from Navy

10-20-2020
The F/A-18 aircraft has been flying since the late 1970s and has been a multi-role workhorse for both the Navy and Marine Corps. As with many of the DOD air platforms, wiring issues are a constant concern, and the number one reason for grounding. Through a CTMA initiative with Eclypse International, the “Electrical Wire Interconnect Systems” (EWIS) program has proven so successful at discovering wiring issues that the Navy and Marines have awarded Eclypse International M. Under the new
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Temple Allen’s SAM Scaling Tool Gets “Standing” Ovation from Maintainers Working at Navy Shipyard and Liberty Ship Floating Museum

10-20-2020
Temple Allen recently delivered three of their Stand-Up Abrading Machines (SAM) Scaling Tools to the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. The SAM had been demonstrated at the shipyard twice through the CTMA Program to rave reviews. The SAM Scaling Tool gives maintainers the ability to remove deck coating while standing up, so the process is more efficient and no longer imposes wear and tear on their backs and knees. The word is spreading through the shipyard channels that this technology will greatly
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Team SUB Small Business Sustainment Technology Showcase Offered Companies Rare Insights 

10-20-2020
NCMS partnered with SEA OOK Team SUB to host the Small Business Sustainment Technology Showcase on September 16-17, 2020 at the Navy Yard, Washington DC. This virtual event showcased innovative technologies from small businesses to assist the Submarine Program Executive Offices (PEO) with a broad spectrum of shipyard modernization efforts. On Day 1, industry participants learned more about the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) current and future needs through presentations [link the
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Meet NCMS Project Manager Scott Benton

10-20-2020
After three decades with PPG, Scott Benton has chosen NCMS to begin his second career. It’s not a surprising choice for Benton who spent the last 13 years working on PPG government-funded projects, several of them with NCMS and the CTMA Program. Taking an early retirement offer, Benton turned his attention to a time-honed role. “I already knew about NCMS, the kinds of projects they have, the role of the project manager. I had experience with managing government projects which shortened my
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Desktop Metal Receives Multi-Million Dollar Award From Department of Defense for the Development of High-Volume Manufacturing Process to Mass Produce Cobalt-Free Hardmetal Parts

10-07-2020
Desktop Metal is a leader in mass production and turnkey additive manufacturing solutions, offering the fastest metal 3D printing technology in the market, up to 100 times the speed of legacy technologies (1) Investigations by the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) to find a replacement for Cobalt (Co), traditionally used as a metallic binder material for cemented tungsten carbide (WC), has led to the development of a Co-free alternative binder (2) The three-year .45
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Team SUB Small Business Sustainment Technology Showcase Offered Companies Rare Insights

09-25-2020
NCMS partnered with SEA OOK Team SUB to host the Small Business Sustainment Technology Showcase on September 16-17, 2020 at the Washington Navy Yard, Washington, DC. This virtual event showcased innovative technologies from small businesses to assist the Submarine Program Executive Offices (PEO) with a broad spectrum of shipyard modernization efforts. On Day 1, industry participants learned more about the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) current and future needs through presentations [link
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Marine Corps: CTMA Expeditionary Fluid Analysis Capability Initiative Update

09-24-2020
While operating in austere conditions, such as environments with an abundance of sand, dust, and salt, it is more critical than ever to keep engines clean and mission-ready. If engine lubricants become fouled, the negative ripple effect on the vehicle means time-consuming maintenance and equipment that isn’t available when needed. Machine condition monitoring based on fluid analysis is an essential maintenance activity across the DOD. Effective fluid analysis procedures ensure the readiness
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JROBOT Summit III Engaged Stakeholders in Advancing Robotics within DOD

09-24-2020
NCMS was proud to have co-hosted the Joint Robotics Organization for Building Organic Technologies (JROBOT) Summit III that took place via a virtual forum on August 17-20, 2020. This summit was a follow-on to JROBOT Summit II and continued the conversation of maximizing asset availability across the DOD and allied partners using robotic capabilities. Over 100 attendees from all the Services, the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Materiel Readiness, the U.S. Coast Guard, NASA, and other
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NESTT Awards NCMS Member SurClean Inc. SBIR Contract

09-24-2020
NCMS is pleased to announce that member company SurClean Inc. received a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program contract in response to the ADAPT (Accelerated Delivery and Acquisition of Prototype Technologies) Naval Depot Modernization and Sustainment Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) N201-X02. The focus area pertains to Expeditionary Depot Capability (Command, Control, and Communications). ADAPT is one tool SurClean utilizes to support ongoing research and development activity to
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Meet Adam Korinek New Senior Director of Business Development

09-24-2020
Adam Korinek has a long history with the DOD having joined the Army Reserves after high school and received a Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship to Central Florida University. He trained to pilot both fixed and rotary wing aircraft but chose attack helicopters as his preferred aircraft. After seven years and multiple deployments, Korinek was ready to tackle something new and became a defense contractor, still taking deployments, but for shorter durations and at his choosing.
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Reversible Adhesives Assist in Mission-Ready Tactical Vehicles Aircraft

09-24-2020
At a recent demonstration at the Detroit Arsenal, a group of 25 U.S. Army program managers and engineers voluntarily spent their time watching glue and were delighted to do it. In an effort to lightweight tactical vehicles, the Army is replacing certain metal vehicle components with composite. Adopting composite materials bring several benefits such as lower corrosion and erosion vulnerabilities, as well as a significant reduction in overall weight. Securely joining these various substrates
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CTMA Initiative Includes First Ever Digital Twin of an Entire Military Aircraft

08-27-2020
Nicknamed “The Bone,” the B-1B Lancer is a highly versatile, multi-mission supersonic conventional bomber, carrying the largest conventional payload of both guided and unguided weapons in the Air Force inventory. The fuselage of the B-1 Lancer weighs 90,000 pounds, is the length of half a football field, and takes up three lanes of traffic. With those statistics, moving a 1985 B-1 from the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona
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CTMA Pearl Harbor Initiative Leverages Digital Twin for Navy’s Next Steps in 20-year Shipyard Modernization Plan

08-27-2020
Building on the promise afforded by CTMA for rapid development and deployment of commercial sustainment, readiness and reliability technologies, the Navy now has a digital twin of the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PHNSY & IMF) to support their 20-year, -billion initiative to modernize infrastructure at the nation’s four public shipyards. Siemens Government Technologies led an industry team over the last 18 months, collecting vital information on
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Meet Project Manager Josh Chapman

08-27-2020
Josh Chapman grew up in Southwest Michigan and joined the U.S. Marine Corps right out of high school. That one decision has made a profound impact on the trajectory of his life. For nine years serving in the Marine Corps, Chapman gained experience in supply chain management, logistics, and personnel management. After leaving active duty, Chapman remains in the Marine Corps Reserves. Following active duty, Chapman ran a small business that required a lot of travel, so he jumped at an
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The Maintenance Innovation Challenge Goes Virtual – Submit Now!

08-27-2020
Announcing two firsts – The Maintenance Innovation Challenge goes virtual and K is on the line for the winner. The call for innovations is now open - don’t be left out - take action today. The Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Materiel Readiness challenges you to submit your game-changing ideas that could significantly improve weapon system and equipment availability. The competition is open to more than just novel technologies and could include unique collaborative business
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JROBOT Summit III: Leveraging Robotic Capabilities to Enhance Warfighter Readiness

08-26-2020
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences was proud to have been an integral part of the Joint Robotics Organization for Building Organic Technologies (JROBOT) Summit III that took place via a virtual forum. Thank you to the over 100 government attendees for their participation and contributions to the successful JROBOT Summit III. From keynotes to plenaries to break-out sessions, the knowledge shared and content harvested were tremendous. The goal was to move the understanding and
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DAU: Collaboration With the Commercial Industrial Base

08-25-2020
The 2018 National Defense Strategy identified rebuilding military readiness as we craft a more lethal Joint Force as one of three distinct lines of effort for implementation. Tackling such a daunting challenge will require a multipronged approach to address a range of maintenance and sustainment hurdles, including aging infrastructure, legacy systems and technology, and efficiency obstacles. Our Warfighters cannot guarantee mission success with weapon systems that are grounded, waiting for
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NEW DATE – Funding Deadline for New CTMA Projects is August 10 

07-22-2020
Important deadline:  The window for receiving FY19 funding via the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA)’s Cooperative Agreement is closing soon. Funding must be received in-house no later than Monday, August 10, 2020, in order to leverage the benefits of this contract vehicle and obligate the funding prior to 30 September.  Consider utilizing the CTMA Cooperative Agreement to obligate your expiring funds to secure demonstrations, evaluation, and validations of
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U.S. Army taking readiness to MARRS

07-22-2020
The U.S. Army maintains countless records of operational information and tasks associated with individual and unit readiness data. Being able to integrate this information in real-time and leverage historical analytics can align the operational requirements to the units that are ready for action, identifying qualified and available personnel that are best fit for each specific mission requirement. Currently, 85% of that activity is conducted manually with telephone calls, spreadsheets, and
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Global Combat Support System Integrates Critical Areas under One System

07-22-2020
In 2010, the U.S. Marine Corps toggled logistics, maintenance, and supply together under one umbrella – the Global Combat Support System-Marine Corps (GCSS-MC) – combining supply and maintenance functions under one system. Using an Oracle-based platform, the Marines had a lot of data under one umbrella but struggled to utilize its capabilities efficiently. Through a CTMA initiative, Anglicotech came on-board to help train, demonstrate, and support the Marines who were tasked with using and
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RECAP – 2020 AM Workshop

07-22-2020
Additive Manufacturing (AM) is a game-changing technology for the DOD which is why more than 180 government, industry, and academia AM experts registered for the 2020 AM Workshop hosted by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, NCMS, Lockheed Martin, and America Makes. This AM workshop was a follow-up to the Business Model Workshop held in 2019. The purpose was to address important foundational aspects of AM necessary for DOD’s wide adoption of the game-changing capability. Attendees
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AM Training in Marine Corps Builds Future Workforce

07-22-2020
One of the greatest ironies of the recession of the mid-2000s was many skilled manufacturing jobs, including those in additive manufacturing (AM), remained unfilled. During a period when unemployment was high, these specialized jobs lacked qualified applicants. AM or 3D printing experts remain optimistic about continuing innovation and expansion in this field in 2020 and beyond. There are also companies like Parmatech Corporation, a metal fabrication company with more than 40 years of
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Meet Kyle Considine

07-22-2020
Being deployed with the U.S. Army over his 17-year career, Kyle Considine would be away from home for months at a time. When the time came to find a new position, he was looking to leverage his background and experience, but also to be able to spend more time with his family. In the Fall of 2019, Kyle found just what he was looking for at NCMS. Kyle held many positions while serving in the Army. His position as a Logistics Manager in Afghanistan provided extensive experience as a joint
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2020 Maintenance Innovation Challenge Accepting Submissions

07-22-2020
As part of the DOD Maintenance Symposium, the Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) is an important venue to present innovative technologies in front of a large cross-section of DoD decision-makers. The National Defense Strategy contains an objective to establish an unmatched 21st century National Security Base that effectively supports operations and sustains security and solvency. The MIC, an integral part of the 2020 DOD Maintenance Symposium, aligns well with this strategy. The MIC
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The Sarcos Guardian XO Full-Body Powered Exoskeleton Wins 2020 CTMA Technology Competition

07-09-2020
Ann Arbor, MI—The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is pleased to announce that the Sarcos® Guardian XO® Full-Body, Powered Exoskeleton won the 2020 Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Technology Competition. Seven finalists were chosen to present from over 50 impressive submissions. Sarcos will receive ,000 in funding and will participate in a one-year technology demonstration/evaluation project. The Sarcos® Guardian XO® Full-Body, Powered
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New Synapse Application Introduced at Latest Joint Intermittent Test Working Group Meeting

06-25-2020
Recently NCMS member Universal Synaptics unveiled its new software application, Synapse, to the Joint Intermittent Test (JIT) Working Group. This software is an upgrade enhancement to the Intermittent Fault Detection and Isolation System (IFDIS) a diagnostic instrument that can simultaneously and continuously monitor all unit test circuits individually at the same time detecting intermittent faults. It is assisting the Navy, Air Force, and Army save maintenance funds and time off wing by
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Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC) Gets International Attention

06-25-2020
JAIC is the DOD’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Center of Excellence providing a critical mass of expertise to help the DOD harness the game-changing power of AI. To help operationally prepare for AI, the JAIC integrates technology development, with the requisite policies, knowledge, processes, and relationships to ensure long-term success and scalability. The mission of JAIC is to transform the DOD by accelerating the delivery and adoption of AI to achieve mission impact at scale. The goal
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Meet Dr. Cosima Boswell-Koller

06-25-2020
Unfamiliar with the greater Detroit metropolitan area, Dr. Cosima Boswell-Koller was doubtful that she would find a job in the Ann Arbor area that combined her diverse educational background in the sciences with her many years of work experience with the Naval Air System Command at Patuxent River, Maryland. Her husband had been offered a job opportunity in the southeastern part of Michigan, but their move was contingent on finding a parallel career opportunity that met her needs. In July
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Funding Deadline for New CTMA Projects is August 14 

06-25-2020
Important deadline: The window for receiving FY19 funding via the CTMA’s Cooperative Agreement is closing soon. Funding must be received in house no later than Friday, August 14, 2020 in order to leverage the benefits of this contract vehicle and obligate the funding prior to 30 September. Consider utilizing the CTMA Cooperative Agreement to obligate your expiring funds to secure demonstrations, evaluation, and validations of maintenance and sustainment technologies. Don’t let this
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2020 Maintenance Innovation Challenge Accepting Submissions Now

06-25-2020
The 2020 Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) is the perfect venue to showcase revolutionary and evolutionary innovations to the DOD maintenance community. The Military Services, Defense agencies, industry, and academia, are all actively pursuing innovative technologies and processes to improve maintenance capability, effectiveness, and efficiency. The objective of the MIC is to elicit and share unique, enhanced maintenance capabilities, to potentially elevate and expand sustainment
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NCMS congratulates the finalists for the 2020 CTMA Technology Competition

06-24-2020
It was a difficult decision with over 50 excellent submissions, but the panel of DOD judges have chosen the finalists for the 2020 CTMA Technology Competition. Each finalist will make a 10-minute presentation on their innovative maintenance technology followed by a 5-minute Q&A from the judges. The winner will be announced at the conclusion of the CTMA Competition Finalist Presentation Round held virtually July 9. The 2020 CTMA Technology Competition finalists are: Automated
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Pandemic Adaptive Supply Chains: A Future-Proof Approach

06-11-2020
NCMS President and CEO, Lisa Strama co-authored the following article with partners from the University of Texas at San Antonio, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Stanford Research Institute International, and Purdue University. Originally Posted June 11, 2020 at: https://www.sme.org/technologies/articles/2020/june/pandemic-adaptive-supply-chains-a-future-proof-approach/ COVID-19 vividly underscores the vulnerability of global manufacturing operations and supply chains. The disruption in
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2020 CTMA Technology Competition deadline Extended to May 29!

05-20-2020
The deadline to submit for the 2020 CTMA Technology Competition is Friday, May 29, 2020. Don’t let this opportunity to showcase your innovative maintenance and sustainment technology in front of key DOD decision-makers pass you by. This event will take place as a virtual forum. The winner will be awarded K in funding for a one-year NCMS managed demonstration project. The six finalists will be announced in early June 2020. Applications can be submitted now at
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NCMS and U.S. Manufacturers Respond to DOD’s COVID-19 Efforts

05-19-2020
By mid-March the U.S. had more cases of COVID-19 than any other country. This virus has cut a destructive swath, an unseen enemy where the front lines of the battle are in the nation’s hospitals rather than on the ground, air, or sea. The DOD quickly mobilized to leverage their existing processes, networks, and logistics to assist the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with critically needed supplies. NCMS is working alongside the DOD during this global crisis, tapping into the
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Meet Kevin Nicolai

05-19-2020
As the CTMA Program grows, NCMS has hired several new employees. This month let’s meet Project Manager, Kevin Nicolai. Kevin Nicolai is a lifelong Michigander. After high school he knew he wanted to do something important with is life and see new places. He joined the Air Force and was posted to Minot, North Dakota in missile security. After four years, he decided to try something new, so he joined the Marine Corps. As a Motor Transport Maintenance Technical Specialist, he also learned
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AM Workshop goes Virtual this Year

05-19-2020
Additive manufacturing (AM) is sweeping through the DOD and disrupting how maintenance and sustainment get done. This model workshop is a follow-up to the Business Model Workshop held in 2019. The purpose is to address five foundational aspects of AM necessary for DOD’s wide adoption of the game-changing capability. Attendees will be divided into teams consisting of Program Managers, Legal, Engineering, Logistics, Enterprise IT, Cybersecurity, Training, Administration, and Contracts.
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Funding Deadline for New CTMA Projects is August 14

05-19-2020
Important deadline: The window for receiving FY19 funding via the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA)’s Cooperative Agreement is closing soon. Funding must be received in house no later than Friday, August 14, 2020, in order to leverage the benefits of this contract vehicle and obligate the funding prior to 30 September. Consider utilizing the CTMA Cooperative Agreement to obligate your expiring funds to secure demonstrations, evaluation, and validations of
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Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) call for Abstracts

05-19-2020
The importance of sustainment innovation development and adoption is increasingly relevant as we strive to accelerate materiel availability by improving the viability of the defense industrial base. The COVID-19 pandemic has again illuminated the gaps we have in our domestic resources, industrial capabilities, and supply chain approaches. Novel innovations may address a variety of these gaps. In his May 1 memo, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Materiel Readiness, Mr. Steven Morani has
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NCMS Welcomes our New Members!

05-07-2020
Advanced Analyzer Labs, Inc. (AMMP) Overview of the Company: Based on the license agreement with XOS, a DANAHER subsidiary company, Dr. Huapeng Huang incorporated Advanced Analyzer Labs, Inc. (AAL) in 2015 to develop and commercialize novel X-ray in-situ, inline/online analyzer. The objective of AAL is to become the world leader in X-ray based analyzers to bring material structure analysis to the fields. The big vision comes from the profound knowledge and extensive experience of our
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AMUET CTMA Initiative Leads to New Wiring Safety for the Air Force

04-23-2020
Ten years ago, Alain Lussier’s floatplane flipped over in the water while at a mooring during a thunderstorm. The plane was recovered unscathed, but all of the electrical parts had to be overhauled or replaced, and it took considerable time to manually install and check the wiring installation. At the time there was no automated technology that could do this. So Lussier invented it. The Advanced Mobile Universal Electrical Tool (AMUET) was born. Electrical failures represent about 20-25%
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Meet Frank Schuster

04-23-2020
New Director of CTMA Program Operations Finds Benefitting the Warfighter a Calling A lucky few find a calling in life. For some people, they are born with that calling, others come to it more gradually. For CTMA Program Operations Director, Frank Schuster, his calling to serve his country grew within him slowly but became insistent. A few months after beginning his job as a project architect, he walked into a U.S. Marine Corps recruiting office and walked out as a Marine Corps reservist.
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NCMS Member – Temple Allen uses Maintenance Technology to Refurbish Floating Museum

04-22-2020
Cele Bryan, General Manager of Temple Allen, is taking a suite of ship deck refurbishment tools to the S.S. John W. Brown, a World War II floating museum. The three innovative SAM (Stand-up Abrading Machine) tools in the solution suite are the SAM Scaling Tool, the SAM Dual Rotary Tool, and the SAM Dual 6” Tool with Differential Contact Control, all which received rave reviews at a demonstration at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard last October. One of only two surviving fully operational Liberty
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Submit Now to the 2020 CTMA Technology Competition!

04-22-2020
The deadline to submit for the 2020 CTMA Technology Competition has been extended to May 8, 2020. Don’t let this opportunity to showcase your innovative maintenance and sustainment technology in front of key DOD decision-makers pass you by. The winner will be awarded K in funding for an NCMS managed year-long demonstration project at a government maintenance facility. Applications can be submitted now at https://www.ncms.org/ctma-competition All submissions will be judged by the Joint
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Norfolk Technology Showcase Postponed But Still Vital!

04-22-2020
Due to the extended Stay at Home guidelines from the Federal Government, and the State of Virginia, the Technology Showcase at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard has been postponed. Both NCMS and the staff at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard understand the critical importance of hosting the event and are committed to finding a new date. There is limited space, so we encourage those who are interested to register to ensure a place is available when the new date is announced. The 2020 NCMS Technology
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Second Technology Showcase at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, August 4-5, 2020

04-22-2020
NCMS has just announced its second Technology Showcase at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF). Last year, base leadership, engineers, program managers, and maintainers were extremely impressed by the technologies exhibited. Several companies are already organizing capability demonstrations with PSNS & IMF. As the shipyard develops their technology roadmap, they continue to seek new and innovative technologies that can fill unmet
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Be a Presenter at the 2020 JCAMS Annual Meeting

04-22-2020
Don’t let this opportunity slip you by! NCMS is accepting submissions for speakers highlighting new technologies at the 2020 Joint Composite & Advanced Materials Sustainment (JCAMS) Annual Meeting. Presenting at the JCAMS Annual Meeting is an exceptional opportunity to tout your organization’s achievements, current projects, and specialized expertise to a broad cross-section of industry and the defense maintenance community. Subject matter should be related to composite materials
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Women and Manufacturing (WAM) Podcast

04-10-2020
Dr. Dawn White, the founder, and CEO of Perisense Inc., based in Ann Arbor MI. Perisense manufacturers sensors to deliver performance and productivity data from legacy manufacturing assets and converts it into actionable intelligence to improve quality and results. Dawn shares how she started Perisense Inc. and how the company is working towards making things like the industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things more accessible to small mid-size manufacturing businesses, particularly those that
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Resources for Manufacturers in the CARES Act

04-08-2020
As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, NCMS is proud to see the manufacturing community leading the charge to find creative solutions to address the impacts of this pandemic through technology innovation and production surge. Overview: On March 27th, the President signed into law a trillion economic stimulus package (CARES Act, Public Law 116-136) to help address the unprecedented health and economic crisis related to COVID-19. Included in the stimulus package was over 0
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Immediate Request for White Paper Proposal for DPA Title III Funding

04-06-2020
NCMS thanks everyone who submitted a proposal to our ongoing efforts with DOD Joint Acquisition Task Force for the COVID-19 DPA Title III funding. Due to the critical nature of the request and the shortages of life-saving medical supplies, we know it was a quick turnaround time and appreciate the agility our members and partners showed in submitting so many quality proposals. Please check our website regularly for new opportunities which will be posted at
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NCMS Announces Partnership with DOD and FEMA for Medical Supplies

04-02-2020
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support the critical shortage of medical equipment and supplies. Tapping into our significant network of American manufacturers, and working alongside several agencies to assist FEMA’s efforts, NCMS is securing feedback from advanced manufacturing companies about capability, capacity, time frames, and other data
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NCMS Announces Partnership with DOD and FEMA for Medical Supplies

Defense Industrial Base Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce

03-26-2020
To all our industry partners, please review the following information. In this time of health, safety concerns and uncertainty, we must continue to work toward warfighter readiness, while also taking actions to protect ourselves and others. The health and safety of our members and partners is our highest priority, and we will continually monitor reports and guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the U.S. Department of
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Recent CTMA Initiatives Span the Maintenance Focus Areas

03-25-2020
The CTMA Program has been extremely busy, and we are proud to share new initiatives that have been executed recently and are underway to enhance warfighter readiness: The following 3 new project initiatives were approved for funding with MOD P00031 of the CTMA Cooperative Agreement on January 26, 2020. Improving Readiness by Creating a Rapid Response Capability for System Sustainment and Support Operations The project will apply structured processes and use cases aimed at developing a
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Bob Yurko “In Memoriam”

03-23-2020
On February 7, 2020, CTMA lost a valued friend when Bob Yurko of AMATEK Spectro Scientific passed away suddenly. Bob had been part of the CTMA family for over 10 years working side-by-side with several NCMS staff members on the Expeditionary Fluid Analysis Capability (EFAC) initiative. He will be remembered for his infectious smile that brightened any room and his ability to immediately put all around him at ease. As a frequent partner with NCMS in our booth at the annual DOD Maintenance
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Updates – CTMA Partners Meeting and Technology Competition

03-23-2020
Given the escalating concerns around COVID-19, NCMS has made the decision to postpone the CTMA Partners Meeting scheduled for May 5th-7th, 2020 in Quantico, VA. Our main priority is the health, safety and wellness of our event participants, employees and the community. Given the CDC’s recommended actions for preventing the spread of COVID-19, suggested social distancing and ongoing concerns about public gatherings have inclined us to make this decision. CTMA has remained dedicated to the
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Register now for the NCMS Technology Showcase at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard

03-23-2020
The 2020 NCMS Technology Showcase at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, June 11, 2020 is a rare opportunity to introduce innovative technology to key decision-makers and end users. This event, held on base, offers showcase participants a unique venue where maintainers, program managers, engineers, and production and base leadership will converge in one place, creating the ideal networking environment. NCMS Technology Showcases have been featured at DOD maintenance facilities across the U.S. and Japan
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Register Now: Additive Manufacturing (AM) Workshop June 23-24, 2020  

03-23-2020
AM is sweeping through the DOD and disrupting how maintenance and sustainment is accomplished. This model workshop is a follow-up to the Business Model Workshop held in 2019. The purpose is to address five foundational aspects of AM necessary for DOD’s wide adoption of the game-changing capability. Attendees will be divided into teams consisting of: Program Managers, Legal, Engineering, Logistics, Enterprise IT, Cybersecurity, Training, Administration and Contracts. Government and industry
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NCMS Announces Job Readiness Cell Symposium at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard – October 22-23, 2020

03-23-2020
As part of the shipyard modernization effort, NCMS is partnering with the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Kittery, Maine on a Job Readiness Cell Symposium that will concentrate on a select number of maintenance focus areas to include: Material Tracking/Movement GPS RFID Drones Material Handling This two-day event will include demonstrations and workshops with the goal of creating initiatives using data gleaned from this event. More information will be coming
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ARL Requests Support for COVID-19 Response

03-22-2020
The Army Research Laboratory is soliciting ideas from the NCMS community for additive manufacturing parts to help hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initial topics of interest include respirators and face shields. However, all other ideas are welcome. If you, or your organization, have ideas/prototypes/suggestions, please send an email detailing your approach to ammp@ncms.org Feedback will be shared immediately with ARL for consideration and next steps. The entire NCMS team is standing
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NCMS Awarded Fourth Consecutive CTMA Cooperative Agreement Contract

03-20-2020
Ann Arbor, MI — The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) announced today that it has been awarded a fourth consecutive Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Cooperative Agreement (CA) from the US Department of Defense (DOD). This competitive award extends NCMS’ 22-year record of success as the CTMA program’s managing partner. The contract is valued at up to 0 million for a period of 5 years. “It is an honor to build upon our CTMA successes and I’m
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NCMS Awarded Fourth Consecutive CTMA Cooperative Agreement Contract

CTMA Partners Meeting Postponed; Competition On As Scheduled

03-13-2020
Given the escalating concerns around COVID-19, NCMS has made the decision to postpone the CTMA Partners Meeting scheduled for May 5th-7th, 2020 in Quantico, VA. Our main priority is the health, safety and wellness of our event participants, employees and the community. Given the CDC’s recommended actions for preventing the spread of COVID-19, suggested social distancing and ongoing concerns about public gatherings have inclined us to make this decision. CTMA has remained dedicated to the
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Air Force to Transition Munitions System Demonstrated Through a CTMA Initiative

02-20-2020
The U.S. Air Force needed a single authoritative system to manage safety, security reliability, maintenance, availability and accountability of a B conventional munitions stockpile due to decreased readiness, labor-intensive manual workarounds, and increased risk acceptance to perform missions. Asset visibility and tracking is paramount for military organizations. The Air Force requires information systems that maintain uninterrupted, real-time munitions and item accountability and
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NCMS introduced innovative technologies at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard

02-20-2020
NCMS hosted another Technology Showcase at the U.S. Naval Shipyard at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, January 23-24, 2020. The event introduced new and innovative technologies, products, and processes that could assist the maintenance and sustainment communities with filling unmet needs. Through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program, NCMS is assisting the U.S. Navy in collaborating with industry to demonstrate, evaluate, and validate maintenance and sustainment
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CTMA Technology Competition Showcases Innovative Technology to Key Decision-Makers

02-20-2020
In conjunction with the CTMA Partners Meeting, the CTMA Technology Competition is the perfect venue to present innovative maintenance and sustainment technologies to a cross-spectrum of DOD decision-makers. The winning presentation will walk away with an award of 0K in technology demonstration resources.  The deadline for submissions is April 10, 2020. Applications can be submitted now at https://www.ncms.org/ctma-competition/ The six finalists will be announced on April 17 and be
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CTMA—DOD’s Sustainment Innovation Accelerator celebrated at Partners Meeting

02-20-2020
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Defense for Materiel Readiness are pleased to announce the annual CTMA Partners Meeting to be held May 5-7, 2020 at the Clubs at Quantico, Quantico, VA. This event will bring DOD, industry, and academia together to highlight weapon systems sustainment challenges, frame potential solutions, develop partnerships, learn about innovative existing and emerging technologies, and share
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Register now for the NCMS Technology Showcase at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard

02-20-2020
The 2020 NCMS Technology Showcase at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, June 10, 2020, is a rare opportunity to introduce innovative technology to key decision-makers and end-users. This event, held on base, offers showcase participants a unique venue where maintainers, program managers, engineers, and other production and base leadership will converge in one place, creating the ideal networking environment. NCMS Technology Showcases have been featured at DOD maintenance facilities across the U.S. and
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Save the Date: Additive Manufacturing Workshop June 23-24, 2020

02-20-2020
Additive manufacturing is sweeping through the DOD and disrupting how maintenance and sustainment is accomplished. This model workshop is a follow-up to the Business Model Workshop held in 2019. The purpose is to address five foundational aspects of additive manufacturing necessary for DOD’s wide adoption of the game-changing capability. Attendees will be divided into teams consisting of Program Managers, Legal, Engineering, Logistics, Enterprise IT, Cybersecurity, Training, Administration and
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National Academy of Engineering Elects 87 Members and 18 International Members

02-12-2020
NCMS Board Member Thomas R. Kurfess elected to The National Academy of Engineering (NAE). Election to the National Academy of Engineering is among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer. Academy membership honors those who have made outstanding contributions to "engineering research, practice, or education, including, where appropriate, significant contributions to the engineering literature" and to "the pioneering of new and developing fields of technology, making
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The Air Force and NCMS Member MELD win big at the Maintenance Innovation Challenge

02-12-2020
December 10, 2019, Spokane, WA—Congratulations to the Oklahoma Air Logistics Complex (OC-ALC), the Air Force Sustainment Center, Air Force Lifecycle Management, and Air Force Research Laboratory for taking the Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) Technology Award at the 2019 DOD Maintenance Symposium. Their submission, Fully Organic Repair of Air Force Assets Via Cold Spray impressed the panel of judges as an excellent example of revolutionary and evolutionary maintenance and sustainment
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National Academy of Engineering Elects 87 Members and 18 International Members

NCMS Introduced Innovative Technologies at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard

01-31-2020
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) hosted a Technology Showcase at the U.S. Naval Shipyard at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, January 24-25, 2020. The event introduced new and innovative technologies, products, and processes that could assist the maintenance and sustainment communities with filling unmet needs. Through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program, NCMS is assisting the U.S. Navy in collaborating with industry to demonstrate, evaluate, and
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2019 CTMA Year in Review

01-21-2020
It was a banner year for the CTMA Program experiencing 214% growth in revenue and a 50% growth in the number of funded projects. NCMS partnered with many new government and industry partners on CTMA initiatives as word spread of the high-value impacts to the defense industrial base. Looking at the nature of the initiatives – big data, artificial intelligence, autonomic logistics, energy, environmental, health, and conditioned-based maintenance plus – the clear priorities across the Services
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NCMS Partners with Industry to Enhance Readiness at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard

01-21-2020
NCMS is pleased to announce that the following companies will be participants at the Technology Showcase at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility: 3D Systems, Inc. American Ceramic Technology, Inc. Atlas Copco Tools & Assembly Bechtel National BIONICLIFT Cisco Systems DIT-MCO International Eclypse International Faro Technologies GE Research GovSmart Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence Impacto Protective Products Lancs Industries Lockheed
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Register now for the NCMS Technology Showcase at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard June 9-11, 2020!

01-21-2020
The 2020 NCMS Technology Showcase at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard is a rare opportunity to introduce innovative technology to key decision-makers and end users. This two-day event, held on base, offers showcase participants a unique venue where program managers, engineers, and other production and base leadership will converge in one place, creating the ideal networking environment. NCMS Technology Showcases have been featured at DOD maintenance facilities across the U.S. and Japan and are open
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Upcoming Inaugural Technology Showcase at the Navy Yard in Washington, DC

01-21-2020
NCMS is partnering with the Navy Yard, Washington, DC to host a Technology Showcase, March 17-18, 2020. This event will be an introduction to innovative technologies that will assist the Program Executive Offices (PEO) with a broad spectrum and high level of shipyard modernization efforts. Government participants will be key decision-makers for a wide variety of initiatives. At this event, industry will learn more about NAVSEA’s current needs and what may be coming in the near
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Big Winners!

12-17-2019
The DOD Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) aims to elevate and expand the call for maintenance innovation to include not only new technology, hardware, and software, but also unique partnerships, resourcing strategies, business practices or processes that promise to make maintenance more capable, agile, and affordable. MIC Overall Technology Winner – Air Force Congratulations to the Oklahoma Air Logistics Complex (OC-ALC), the Air Force Sustainment Center, Air Force Lifecycle
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NCMS to host second Technology Showcase at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard

12-17-2019
Look who will be joining us at the NCMS Technology Showcase in Pearl Harbor. The Showcase will take place on January 22-24, 2020 and will introduce needed maintenance and sustainment technologies to the shipyard. Partnering with us will be: Universal Synaptics Temple Allen Industries Verifisurf Software Cabras Marine Corporation Swagelok Markforged GovSmart New River Kinetics Lancs Industries Solavitek 3D Systems Rapid Scan 3D Zoller
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Meet Senior Project Manager Michael DeHeer

12-17-2019
Mike DeHeer feels right at home in his new job as a Senior Project Manager at NCMS. Born in New Jersey, he and his family then moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina and on to Roanoke, Virginia near the Blue Ridge Mountains. Staying in the Southeast, Mike attended Virginia Tech for his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering before he and his family moved to Germany with work and then back to North Carolina, this time in Charlotte Mike began his career with Continental Tires
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Maintenance Symposium Identifies the Future of Maintenance and Sustainment

12-17-2019
With almost 1,300 participants, the 2020 DOD Maintenance Symposium brought together maintenance and sustainment leaders from all branches of service and industry, as well as maintainers who daily maintain warfighter readiness. This year’s theme, Ready Systems @ The Speed of Relevance was echoed throughout the event by keynote speakers, panelists, and breakout leaders. Steven Morani, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Materiel Readiness summed up the numbers. The DOD spends
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The Air Force and NCMS Member MELD win big at the Maintenance Innovation Challenge

12-11-2019
Ann Arbor, MI — The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) announced today that it has been awarded a fourth consecutive Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Cooperative Agreement (CA) from the US Department of Defense (DOD). This competitive award extends NCMS’ 22-year record of success as the CTMA program’s managing partner. The contract is valued at up to 0 million for a period of 5 years. “It is an honor to build upon our CTMA successes and I’m
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The Air Force and NCMS Member MELD win big at the Maintenance Innovation Challenge

12-11-2019
December 10, 2019, Spokane, WA—Congratulations to the Oklahoma Air Logistics Complex (OC-ALC), the Air Force Sustainment Center, Air Force Lifecycle Management, and Air Force Research Laboratory for taking the Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) Technology Award at the 2019 DOD Maintenance Symposium. Their submission, Fully Organic Repair of Air Force Assets Via Cold Spray impressed the panel of judges as an excellent example of revolutionary and evolutionary maintenance and sustainment
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NCMS Welcomes New Board Member Prabhjot Singh

11-21-2019
NCMS welcomes GE Global Research’s Prabhjot Singh as a new member of the distinguished NCMS Board of Directors. Prabhjot joins eleven experienced industry leaders providing guidance and direction to the growth and sustainment of NCMS. For more information and extended biography, please visit
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Stand-up Abrading Machine gets Rave Reviews at October Shipboard Demo

11-20-2019
Overhauling a ship is complex and time-consuming work. Removing the slip-resistant decking is one of the most labor-intensive, and body-damaging activities. Traditionally, the maintenance staff had to either work on their hands and knees or lay prone on the deck to remove the tough coating using a hand scaler. When Cele Bryan, general manager of Temple Allen Industries understood the scope of labor involved, she immediately modified the scaling tool into a Stand-up Abrading Machine (SAM) to
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PMS 555 Industry Day Launched a Collaboration between Industry and Government

11-20-2019
On November 7, NCMS partnered with the Program Management Support (PMS) 555 team on an Industry Day to support the shipyard modernization efforts. Over 150 people, both PMS 555 personnel and representatives from companies with innovative technologies, came together to learn from each other how they can be part of designing the shipyard of the future. Along with over 50 tabletop displays, participants were invited to listen to a panel discussion about the goals of the Shipyard Infrastructure
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NCMS highlights Six Critical Technologies at the DoD Maintenance Symposium

11-20-2019
The DoD Maintenance Symposium is December 9-12 in Spokane, Washington. The only DoD-sanctioned event that focuses on maintenance and sustainment technologies and processes, is the perfect venue for NCMS to illustrate some critical projects currently underway through the CTMA Program. NCMS is pleased to be partnering with companies showcasing six technologies that will increase warfighter readiness. Please visit booth #517 to learn more about these exciting technologies. Atmospheric Plasma
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Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard Technology Showcase: Technologies Needed! 

11-20-2019
NCMS is pleased to announce that they will be hosting a Technology Showcase at the Naval Shipyard at Pearl Harbor on January 22-24, 2020. The goal of the event is to highlight a wide range of technology solutions and tooling for the repair of ships. The shipyard is looking for innovative technologies that will assist their maintenance and sustainment efforts. Please find a preliminary list of technologies below. Desired Technologies Dust Collection and Air Cleaning
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Six Finalists Chosen to Present at the Maintenance Innovation Challenge

11-20-2019
An opportunity to get commercial off-the-shelf technology in front of 200+ DoD decision-makers is rare. But at the Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) that is exactly what takes place. As part of the DoD Maintenance Symposium, six presenters will have 15 minutes to highlight their technologies in front of the MIC audience. A memo from the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense reinforces the critical nature of this event saying, “The Importance of sustainment innovation is
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2020 CTMA Partners Meeting Set for May 5-7, 2020 at Quantico, VA

11-20-2019
With the theme of CTMA – DoD’s Sustainment Innovation Accelerator, the 2020 CTMA Partners Meeting will focus on innovative maintenance and sustainment technologies to fast-track warfighter readiness. The Clubs at Quantico offer the perfect location to bring the maintenance and sustainment community together to collaborate on innovative solutions to the needs of today and tomorrow. Save the date! Registration coming
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Lithium-Ion Battery project increases productivity at DLA

10-28-2019
The DoD Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) owns and operates large fleets of Class 1 & 2 forklift trucks for material handling purposes. Within DLA Distribution, 2,397 of these forklift trucks are electrically powered by very large lead batteries. While sufficient for low to medium-intensity warehouse applications, these batteries face performance challenges for high-intensity, multi-shift warehouses and/or cold-temperature warehouse applications. Challenges have been historically overcome
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Anniston Army Depot (ANAD) to host 2019 Remanufacturing Conference

10-28-2019
ANAD will host a Remanufacturing Conference on November 19, 2019 to bring together suppliers of technical services/products which can improve ANAD's role as a readiness provider and sustainer of combat power. This event will be by invitation only. Interested parties must submit a 2019 Industry Conference Interest Form to be considered. ANAD is a secure facility and all parties must be properly vetted through a background check prior to entrance. Potential guest speakers will include ANAD
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Funding Available for Environmental Demonstrations

10-28-2019
The Department of Defense (DoD) Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) is seeking to fund projects aimed at the demonstration and validation of environmentally sustainable technologies or methodologies for cleaning firefighting delivery systems in aircraft hangars or on firefighting vehicles that have contained per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-based firefighting foams. Funding for these projects will begin in Fiscal Year 2020. The goal of ESTCP is to
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NCMS members at the 2019 Maintenance Symposium

10-28-2019
Some of the most innovative maintenance and sustainment technologies come from NCMS members, many of whom will be at the Defense Maintenance and Logistics Exhibition that occurs concurrently with the DoD Maintenance Symposium. For those attending this informative event, please visit the following booths to learn more about their technology critical to the effort to enhance warfighter readiness. Automated Precision, Inc. (API) - Booth 610 Crestwood Technologies Group (CTG) - Booth
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Many Firsts for NCMS at the Technology Showcase at the Aberdeen Proving Ground

10-28-2019
There were a lot of firsts for NCMS at our recent Technology Showcase, September 19. It was our first time partnering with the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) at the Aberdeen Proving Ground (ARL) in Aberdeen, Maryland. It was also the first time that we highlighted our Advanced Manufacturing, Materials, and Processes (AMMP) Program in conjunction with our CTMA Program. The digital exhibitor directory from the Showcase that can be found at https://www.ncms.org/events/apg/#Exhibitors. In all
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Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard Technology Showcase: Registration is now open!

10-28-2019
NCMS is pleased to announce that they will be hosting a Technology Showcase at the Naval Shipyard at Pearl Harbor on January 23-24, 2020. The goal of the event is to highlight a wide range of technology solutions and tooling for repair of ships. If you feel that your innovative technology would positively affect the shipyard’s efficiency, productivity, safety or resources we hope you will join us! Visit the registration page for an up-to-date list of the Navy’s desired technologies and to
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Save the Date: Additive Manufacturing Workshop June 23-24, 2020

10-28-2019
Additive manufacturing is sweeping through the DoD and disrupting how maintenance and sustainment gets done. We need to ensure that this workshop is as relevant as possible. Take a few minutes and let us know what topics are important to you and your AM community. Below is a link to a questionnaire. Please use this link to access our questionnaire and provide your input. https://ammo.ncms.org/2020-ammo-workshop-questionaire/ AM Workshop June 23-24, 2020 Lockheed Martin Global Vision
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Researchers: Cybernization of American manufacturing is the path forward for global leadership

09-26-2019
By investing in digital and smart manufacturing, the U.S. can lead the world in manufacturing productivity, energy efficiency and innovation. But we must do so in a cyber secure manner. The challenge is enormous and the complexity of cybersecurity grows bigger every day with the explosion of digital linkages between manufacturers, suppliers, customers and employees along with the digitization of products and services. Digitization directly leads to increased energy efficiency, productivity,
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CTMA Assists the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) Embrace Additive Manufacturing

09-25-2019
For the USMC, getting low-demand repair parts from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) can cause critical equipment to be grounded impacting mission success. Tackling this challenge and embracing new and innovative technology to solve obstacles has been a priority. That’s why the new CTMA project to continue the advancement of additive manufacturing (AM) adoption is an essential component of their overall strategy. AM, also known as 3D printing, allows for rapid sustainment and
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NCMS/PMS 555 Industry Day – November 7, 2019

09-25-2019
The U.S. Navy has begun the effort of modernizing their four domestic shipyards and is looking for innovative technologies! The Navy wants their repair facilities to be the most, efficient, productive, cost-effective, and cutting-edge facilities in the world. PMS 555 is the program management office charged with identifying “out of the box” solutions to rapidly change the infrastructure with the focus of increasing throughput at the public shipyards. NAVSEA is dedicated to locating,
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Additive Manufacturing Workshop—Call for Topics

09-25-2019
Additive manufacturing is sweeping through the DoD and disrupting how maintenance and sustainment gets done. To keep a forward-looking posture, the DoD’s Joint Additive Manufacturing Working Group, American Makes Additive Manufacturing for Maintenance and Sustainment Advisory Group and the Additive Manufacturing for Maintenance Operations Working Group will host an Additive Manufacturing Workshop June 23-24, 2020 at the Lockheed Martin Global Vision Center, Crystal City, VA. For this
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Save the Date – NCMS Technology Showcase at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility!

09-25-2019
NCMS is pleased to announce that they will be hosting a Technology Showcase at the Naval Shipyard at Pearl Harbor, January 23-24, 2020. The goal of the event is to highlight a wide range of technology solutions and tooling that could be used by the shipyard for the repair of ships. Organized through the CTMA Program, this event will be attended by a cross-service audience that includes maintenance and sustainment staff from the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps as well as the
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Anniston Army Depot (ANAD) to host 2019 Remanufacturing Conference

09-25-2019
ANAD will host a Remanufacturing Conference on November 19, 2019, to bring together suppliers of technical services/products which can improve ANAD's role as a readiness provider and sustainer of combat power. This event will be by invitation only. Interested parties must submit a 2019 Industry Conference Interest Form to be considered. ANAD is a secure facility and all parties must be properly vetted through a background check prior to entrance.  Potential guest speakers will include ANAD
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NCMS and IMS International to Collaborate at World Manufacturing Forum Technical Day

09-10-2019
CERNOBBIO, ITALY September 9, 2019 --- The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and Intelligent Manufacturing Systems International, Inc. (IMSI) have partnered to collaborate for the World Manufacturing Forum (WMF) Technical Day on September 25, 2019. In keeping with the strong partnership between NCMS and IMSI, NCMS International will sponsor and host a keynote on the future of manufacturing. NCMS Senior Vice President, Rebecca Taylor, will provide the keynote address and
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NCMS and IMS International to Collaborate at World Manufacturing Forum Technical Day

MKGCS uses Data to Support Warfighter Readiness

08-23-2019
Most of the leadership at MKGCS at one time worked in the Army Operations Center in the Pentagon. Then came 9/11 and everything changed. It was more imperative than ever that personnel and equipment could be tracked globally - not only tracked but evaluated in context to provide information that could offer decisive solutions. NCMS member MKGCS has developed just those kinds of platforms for its customers. “Because we all worked in the Army, and we understand the needs from the squad level
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NCMS Technology Showcase: Puget Sound Naval Shipyard: Innovate to Out Pace

08-23-2019
NCMS recently wrapped up the largest Technology Showcase to date. With 47 companies exhibiting and over 1,000 attendees from the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNSY & IMF), the Kitsap Conference Center was buzzing with activity on July 25-26. Even though the Pacific Northwest weather was picture-perfect, all eyes were on the innovative technologies on display. From collaborative robots to additive manufacturing and autonomic processes, shipyard
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Maintenance Innovation Challenge Deadline Ahead!

08-23-2019
Submission deadline for the Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) is September 27, 2019. As part of the DoD Maintenance Symposium, the MIC is an important venue to present innovative technologies in front of a large cross-section of DoD decision-makers. The 2019 National Defense Strategy contains an objective to establish an unmatched 21st century National Security Base that effectively supports operations and sustains security and solvency. The MIC, an integral part of the 2019 DoD
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Six Companies with Innovative Technologies to Join NCMS at the 2019 DoD Maintenance Symposium

08-23-2019
The DoD Maintenance Symposium will be December 9-12, 2019 in Spokane, WA. Typically attended by over 1,500 DoD personnel, defense industry non-profits, and academia, this event is a hub for learning the latest in maintenance and sustainment innovations, challenges, and initiatives. NCMS is thrilled once again to be at the core (literally) of this excellent event with Booth #517 at the Maintenance and Logistics Exhibition. Anchoring the booth will be six companies with innovative technologies
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Don’t miss the NCMS Technology Showcase: Aberdeen Proving Ground

08-23-2019
It’s not too late to register for the NCMS Technology Showcase hosted at the CCDC Army Research Laboratory (CCDC-ARL) at the Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), Aberdeen, Maryland, September 19, 2019. For the first time, NCMS is partnering with the CCDC-ARL and APG to host a Technology Showcase. This event focuses primarily on advanced manufacturing, materials, and processes. It is open to all innovative technologies that will advance the U.S. Army’s goal of understanding, exploring, maturing,
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2019 AMMO Wargames

08-23-2019
Last June 18-19, 223 people from the DoD, other government agencies, industry and academic met at the Lockheed Martin Global Vision Center in Crystal City, Virginia to continue to actively pursue solutions in five foundational topic areas. Sponsored by DoD’s Joint Additive Manufacturing Working Group, America Makes Additive Manufacturing for Maintenance and Sustainment Advisory Group and the Additive Manufacturing for Maintenance Operations Working Group, this workshop took a deep dive into
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Upcoming 2020 NCMS Technology Showcase: Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility!

08-23-2019
NCMS is pleased to announce that they will be hosting a Technology Showcase at the Naval Shipyard at Pearl Harbor, January 23-24, 2020 to highlight a wide range of technology solutions and tooling that could be evaluated by the shipyard for repair Organized through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program, this event will be attended by a cross-service audience that include shipyard maintenance and sustainment staff as well as personnel and decision-makers from
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Maintenance Innovation Challenge Shapes Future of Maintenance and Sustainment

07-15-2019
The Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) is now open for submissions! As part of the DoD Maintenance Symposium, the MIC is an important venue to present innovative technologies in front of a large cross-section of DoD decision-makers. The 2019 National Defense Strategy contains an objective to establish an unmatched twenty-first century National Security Base that effectively supports operations and sustains security and solvency. The MIC, an integral part of the 2019 DoD Maintenance
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Funding Deadline for New CTMA Projects is August 9

07-15-2019
Important deadline!: The window for project funding through Commercial Technology for Maintenance Activities (CTMA)’s Cooperative Agreement is closing very soon. Funding MIPR paperwork must be received by NCMS no later than Friday, August 9 in order to leverage this contract vehicle for all obligated projects. Don’t let this deadline affect your critical projects. Please plan
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NCMS Technology Showcase: Puget Sound Sold Out!

07-15-2019
The Technology Showcase at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility has proven to be so popular that it officially sold out weeks ahead of the deadline. The word is spreading that the NCMS Technology Showcases are truly valuable experiences where industry and academia can demonstrate their innovative technologies and reach over 1,000 interested base attendees and key decision-makers. “Attending the NCMS Technology Showcase at the U.S. Naval Shipyard was
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Save the Date for the 2019 DoD Maintenance Symposium

07-15-2019
Plan now for the Department of Defense (DoD) Maintenance Symposium, December 9-12, 2019 held in Spokane, Washington. With the theme of Ready Systems @ the Speed of Relevance, this event brings over 1,600 defense maintenance professionals together for four days of concentrated learning, collaboration, and technology exploration. The Symposium is the only DoD event solely focused on maintenance of weapon systems and equipment. It is held in conjunction with the Defense Maintenance and
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NCMS to Host First Ever Technology Showcase at the Army Research Laboratory

07-15-2019
Save the Date for the NCMS Members Meeting & Technology Showcase hosted by the CCDC Army Research Laboratory (CCDC-ARL) at the Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), Aberdeen, Maryland, September 19, 2019. For the first time, NCMS is partnering with the CCDC-ARL and APG to host a Technology Showcase. While this event focuses heavily on advanced manufacturing, materials, and processes, it is open to all innovative technologies that will advance the U.S. Army’s goal of understanding, exploring,
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CTMA Technology Competition Award Winner to Demonstrate at Norfolk

07-15-2019
When Atmospheric Plasma Solutions won the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities Program (CTMA) Technology Competition at the 2019 CTMA Partners Meeting in May, they won more than a nice trophy. The win included ,000 worth of funding and a one-year CTMA project with the DoD. The judges at the competition immediately saw the benefits of Atmospheric Plasma Solutions’ coating removal technology and their enthusiasm has turned into “Validation of Efficiency and Effective
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Funding Deadline for New CTMA Projects is August 9

07-12-2019
Important deadline!: The window for project funding through Commercial Technology for Maintenance Activities (CTMA)’s Cooperative Agreement is closing very soon. Funding must be received in house no later than Friday, August 9 in order to leverage this contract vehicle for all obligated projects. Don’t let this deadline affect your critical projects. Please plan
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Cybersecurity Survey Open to Industry, Help Guide DoE Policy

06-25-2019
NCMS is working on a new cybersecurity initiative to advance the state-of-the-art in cybersecurity for the advanced manufacturing industry. Energy efficient advanced manufacturing is essential to our nation’s economy and global leadership. As new sensor and control technologies are developed and deployed, we must in parallel develop new cybersecurity technologies and methods. Clearly – your voice is critical to understanding what industry wants in terms of cyber protections, what it is
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NCMS Member Company heads to Portugal to Attend Prestigious Incubator

06-19-2019
It’s important to de-paint and de-grease ships on a regular basis. It’s a labor-intensive and hazardous process. But NCMS member SurClean’s laser ablation technology has garnered a lot of attention from both military and commercial shipyards for their innovative coating removal and surface preparation system offering many benefits that other solutions can’t. Susan Sprentall, SurClean’s president and CEO, will be heading across the pond to get her company positioned to take Europe by storm at
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AM Workshop ReCap

06-19-2019
In an ongoing effort to facilitate additive manufacturing (AM) technology transition into the Department of Defense (DoD) maintenance and sustainment arena, over 200 representatives from the government, industry, academia and non-profits attended the AM Workshop, 18-19, June 2019 held at Lockheed Martin’s Global Vision Center in Crystal City, VA. This workshop was a follow-up to the Business Model Workshop held at the same location on 30-31 May 2018. The purpose of the 2019 AM Workshop was
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Composite experts from all over the world converge at Patuxent River Naval Air Station

06-19-2019
On June 4-6, 125 government and industry representatives involved in the composite industry or composite projects gathered to share best practices, technology innovations, and challenges. The Joint Composite & Advanced Material Sustainment (JCAMS) group hosted their annual event for government and military officials, industry leaders, manufacturers, engineers, and other technical experts focusing on the manufacturing, tooling, deployment, and repair of advanced composite materials in a
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NCMS, DoD Identify Significance of Intermittent Fault Testing

06-19-2019
On 30 May 2019, the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) – Crane Division hosted the Department of Defense (DoD), Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD), with industry partners Universal Synaptics, Lockheed Martin, and the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) for a Capability Demonstration and Ribbon Cutting. This event celebrated the successful conclusion of the Intermittent Fault Detection Inspection System (IFDIS) project, proving the validity of intermittent fault testing for
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NCMS, DoD Identify Significance of Intermittent Fault Testing

Keynotes set Stage for 2019 CTMA Partners Meeting

06-04-2019
Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW) was a perfect host location for the 2019 CTMA Partners Meeting. Not only were they celebrating their 100th anniversary, but their focus on aviation maintenance was the perfect backdrop to this year’s meeting theme of CTMA—Enabling Maintenance for the Next 100 Years. Over 150 people attended the two-day event from industry, academia, and government. The meeting included panel discussions, competitions, table top displays, networking opportunities, and
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Atmospheric Plasma Solutions wins 2019 CTMA Technology Competition

06-04-2019
The CTMA Technology Competition is a popular way to introduce the Department of Defense (DoD) to innovative maintenance and sustainment technologies and keep a pipeline of ideas flowing. The 2019 CTMA Technology Competition took place in conjunction with the CTMA Partners Meeting held at FRCSW. Over 40 companies submitted their innovative maintenance and sustainment technology abstracts with six finalists selected to present to a panel of judges during a “shark tank” presentation. Each
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The FRCSW Catapult Competition: Where the Rubber Meets the…Tire

06-04-2019
Chris Root, co-host at the 2019 CTMA Partners Meeting, leads the Advanced Technology and Innovation Team at the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW). As part of encouraging innovative thinking across the facility, he began the Catapult Competition. The second Catapult Competition took place during this year’s CTMA Partners Meeting with the audience participating as judges. Six finalists had to make the most of their five-minute allotment to convince the audience of the benefits of their
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Shipyard Staff Learn about New Technologies

06-04-2019
The CTMA Partners Meeting took on a new twist by being paired for the first time with an NCMS Technology Showcase. Exhibitors displayed technologies from reverse engineering, confined space monitoring, wiring, measuring, magnets, and many more. During session breaks, meals, and networking opportunities, meeting attendees visited to learn more about the technologies and how they might assist with their maintenance and sustainment needs. The NCMS Technology Showcase took place following the
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Experts Discuss Critical Issues

06-04-2019
The 2019 CTMA Partners Meeting was chocked full of information, much of it coming from five different panel discussions. These panels were comprised of experts in the field who have a deep understanding cross-section of knowledge pertaining to that subject. The panel topics and Subject Matter Experts were: Successful Sustainment Technology Lifecycle: Challenges to the Sustainment Enterprise Steve Morani, Air Force Sustainment Center, Moderator Bill Kobren, DAU Joe Sparks,
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Flag Accompanies Warrior all over the World

06-04-2019
In 2006, when Michael Miller, Director of Business Development for Universal Synaptics, was about to be deployed to Iraq, he bought an American flag. He carried that flag with him on 70 successful Army combat missions. He now carries the flag wherever he travels and during significant life events. The flag has since been taken to over 14 countries, flown over the U.S. Capitol, been to nearly every U.S. State, and to historic sites including The Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat, the
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IMSI and NCMS Sign Memorandum of Understanding

05-14-2019
WASHINGTON (5/13/2019) -- As a further expansion of collaborative outreach and support, the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and IMS International (IMSI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Tuesday at the NCMS Washington Office. IMSI Chair, Jack Harris, and NCMS President and CEO, Lisa Strama, were present at the event and gave remarks on the opportunity this partnership presents to help small to medium sized (SME) manufacturers. Through this agreement, the IMSI ManuVation
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IMSI and NCMS Sign Memorandum of Understanding

Atmospheric Plasma Solutions wins 2019 CTMA Competition

05-09-2019
May 9, 2019, Coronado, CA—The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is pleased to announce that Atmospheric Plasma Solutions won the 2019 CTMA Technology Competition. Their Atmospheric Plasma Coating Removal presentation not only impressed the judges but will also be awarded ,000 in funding and will participate in a one-year project. The Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Technology Competition took place in conjunction with the CTMA Partners Meeting.
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NCMS Welcomes New Members

04-30-2019
NCMS welcomes seven new members including Aptima, Inc., BEARS LLC, Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC), LINE-X LLC / IXS Coatings, Metalbuilt LLC, Phillips Corporation, and Sciperio, Inc. Aptima, Inc. www.aptima.com Aptima optimizes the performance of human-AI teams learning and operating in technology intensive, mission-critical settings including defense, intel, aviation, law enforcement, and healthcare. We combine deep expertise in how humans and AI teammates think, learn, and
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The 2019 CTMA Technology Competition finalists announced!

04-30-2019
Congratulations to the six CTMA Technology Competition finalists! These companies will have ten minutes to present their technology and then five minutes to answer questions on May 8th during the 2019 CTMA Partners Meeting. The JTEG principles will preside over the finalist presentations and the winner will receive ,000 in project funding, take part in a one-year technology demonstration/evaluation project, and a trophy!. The finalists are: Atmospheric Plasma Solutions. Inc. –
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NCMS Introduces Innovative Technology at Technology Showcase at Puget Sound Shipyard July 24-26

04-30-2019
Ann Arbor, MI — The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is hosting the upcoming NCMS Technology Showcase: Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at the Kitsap Conference Center, Bremerton, Washington, July 24-26, 2019. The event will introduce new and innovative technologies, products, and processes that could assist the maintenance and sustainment communities with filling unmet technology needs. Through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program, NCMS is
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Anglicotech Assists the DoD with Technology to Improve Readiness

04-30-2019
Anglicotech, LLC continues to thrive as a partner to NCMS and the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC). Their efforts have had a tremendous impact on USMC operations and readiness and will continue to benefit the DoD into the future. Anglicotech is a Veteran-Owned Small Business specializing in supply chain management, partnering with industry leaders to build innovative products and deliver comprehensive information technology services. For the last few years, Anglicotech has been involved in several CTMA
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NCMS Member MDS Coating Works with NAVAIR to Increase Engine Life and Lower operational costs

04-30-2019
Erosion and corrosion on gas turbine engine compressors is a major problem that costs the DoD billions annually in maintenance and spare parts. During the first Gulf War, the challenges of operating rotary wing aircraft in high-sand and maritime environments clearly brought this issue to the forefront. Engines were removed for low power in some cases after only 50 hours of operation – greatly burdening the warfighters in providing mission-capable air vehicles. Through a CTMA supported
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NCMS Introduces Innovative Technology at Technology Showcase at Puget Sound Shipyard July 24-26

NCMS Member Navitas Systems Announces Dedicated New Building For Starlifter Lithium Material Handling Battery Production

04-10-2019
Ann Arbor, MI, April 8, 2019 – Navitas Systems LLC (www.navitassys.com), a leading provider of lithium energy storage products for commercial, industrial and government customers, announced today that it has secured a new building near its current 48,000 square foot Ann Arbor Michigan R&D and Manufacturing facility to focus solely on production of its popular StarlifterTM line of lithium forklift batteries. “We are seeing very strong growth in both of our main businesses—the commercial
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EPA Announces Environmental Compliance Website for the Crude Oil and Natural Gas Sector

04-09-2019
WASHINGTON - Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a new compliance assistance resource for owners and operators of crude oil and natural gas extraction operations. This new Environmental Compliance Information for Energy Extraction Portal provides easily accessible information to help companies comply with federal and state environmental regulations.” Many small and medium-sized oil and natural gas owners and operators want to comply with environmental
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NCMS Q&A: ReverseEngineering.com

03-27-2019
ReverseEngineering.com recently rejoined the ranks of NCMS members. Their booth at the DoD Maintenance Symposium and participation in several NCMS Technology Showcases has seen a constant flow of interested maintenance decision-makers. NCMS wanted to find out why the technology of reverse engineering is so popular and how ReverseEngineeing.com has helped the DoD save costs and improve warfighter readiness. NCMS: Why is reverse engineering so important these
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Project Success: Blockchain Huge Success Story with Five Demonstrations

03-27-2019
Between February and the beginning of March 2019, the CTMA project Adapting Blockchain Technology for Additive Manufacturing was successfully demonstrated at five depots. Marine Corps Fabrication Lab at Twenty-Nine Palms, CA AMRDEC at Corpus Christi, TX Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, CA Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Keyport, WA Tinker Air Force Base, OK With industry participants’ Guardtime Federal’s technology and MOOG, Inc.’s VeriPart™ 4.0 enabling platform employing
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Attention Industry: Industry Day to Provide an Overview of the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization

03-14-2019
On 8 April, the Department of the Navy (DON) Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), on behalf of the Program Manager Ships (PMS) 555 is hosting an Industry Day to provide an overview of the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP). The purpose of the Industry Day is to define the SIOP for industry, communicate known requirements, answer industry's questions to the greatest extent possible, and receive feedback. The intent of the Industry Day is to begin the needed dialogue between the
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CTMA Partners Meeting Brings Opportunities to Share Best Practices and Network

03-13-2019
Ann Arbor, Michigan -- 3/13/2019 The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and the Office of Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Materiel Readiness (ODASD-MR) have teamed up with the U.S. Navy’s Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW), Coronado, CA to host the CTMA Partners Meeting May 6-8, 2019. NCMS proudly supports the U.S. Navy enterprise-wide and especially FRCSW, which is located on the Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island and will be commemorating the 100th Year
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CTMA Partners Meeting Brings Opportunities to Share Best Practices and Network

2019 CTMA Technology Competition Places Technology in Front of DoD Decision Makers

02-28-2019
Ann Arbor, MI—For industry that would like to get their maintenance and sustainment technology in front of key decision makers within the Department of Defense (DoD), the perfect opportunity is just around the corner. The Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program is hosting the CTMA Technology Competition, Wednesday, May 8 as part of the CTMA Partners Meeting taking place May 6-8, 2019 at the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, San Diego, CA. The winner will receive
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2019 CTMA Technology Competition Places Technology in Front of DoD Decision Makers

Latest News on Select CTMA Army Projects

02-20-2019
NCMS has several Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) projects with the U.S. Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center. Important initiatives are taking place around corrosion, adhesive joining, rubber degradation, and other critical issues that affect functionality, cost, and readiness. Here is a sampling of a few of those projects. Integrated Corrosion Systems Corrosion is a huge problem for all the Services but with their fleet of ground vehicles, the U.S. Army faces
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NCMS to host Technology Showcase at Fleet Readiness Center Southwest

02-20-2019
Don’t miss this opportunity to demonstrate your technology directly to base end-users and decision-makers NCMS is hosting a Technology Showcase at the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRC-SW), Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, California on Thursday, May 9, 2019. Join the effort! As modernization work progresses, there are many technologies the maintenance and sustainment community need. The Technology Showcase will take place at the conclusion of the 2019 CTMA Partners
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NCMS Technology Showcase: Pearl Harbor becomes first ever cross-services showcase

02-20-2019
It wasn’t the balmy weather or palm trees swaying in the breeze that attracted over 1,000 attendees to the Pearl Harbor Technology Showcase, after all, in Hawaii tropical paradise is an everyday occurrence. The draw was the 28 companies that brought their innovative maintenance and sustainment technologies that could offer major advances to warfighter readiness. It wasn’t only the maintainers and leadership from the Pearl Harbor Shipyard who attended. For the first time ever, a Technology
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Register Now for the 2019 CTMA Partners Meeting

02-20-2019
CTMA—Enabling Maintenance for the Next 100 Years When: May 6-8, 2019 Where: Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRC-SW), Naval Air Station North Island, Coronado, California Connect with innovative industry leaders and key government decision-makers at this highly-anticipated annual event. The 2019 CTMA Partners Meeting is a great opportunity to learn about the latest innovative maintenance and sustainment technology, share news, updates, focus areas, and best practices with others in
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Maglogix® magnets recognized by one of the nation’s largest shipyards

02-20-2019
Congratulations to NCMS member Maglogix®, whose multi-pole magnets have become the preferred method to replace tack welds over 80% of the time in the Bulkhead Division of one of the largest commercial shipyards in the country! The shipyard has also been thrilled with the safety of the hand lifter magnets, which has lowered the hand injury rate at the shipyard from one injury a week to zero. The shipyard has now certified the MXL-1000 magnets for use below the hook. Way to go
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Be a Presenter at the 2019 JCAMS Annual Meeting

02-20-2019
Don’t let this opportunity slip you by! NCMS is accepting submissions for speakers highlighting new technologies at the 2019 Joint Composite & Advanced Materials Sustainment (JCAMS) Annual Meeting. Presenting at the JCAMS Annual Meeting is an exceptional opportunity to tout your organization’s achievements, current projects, and specialized expertise to a broad cross-section of industry and the defense maintenance community. Subject matter should be related to composite materials and
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Visit NCMS member Temple Allen at MRO America, Booth #451

02-20-2019
Temple Allen Industries (TAI) proudly designs and manufactures EMMA (Easily Manipulated Mechanical Arm) and SAM (Standup Abrading Machine) in the USA for both commercial and military aerospace sanding operations. They collaborate with clients to improve ergonomics, health & safety, and productivity. The EMMA and SAM technologies are 100% pneumatic deployment systems, wielding tools that are commonly utilized in industry. Customers have typically found that the systems pay for themselves in
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NCMS Member Spotlight: Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC)

02-08-2019
Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC) is a nonprofit, applied scientific research and development institution specializing in the creation and implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies. CTC offers in-depth experience and a wide range of technical capabilities, including additive manufacturing, engineering solutions for maintenance and sustainment, corrosion services, secure coatings design, custom fabrication solutions, prototype tool development, data management and
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Complex Geometry: Highlights Additive Manufacturing; AMMP and Army Partnership

01-28-2019
From Army.mil Additive manufacturing shines with promise. The discipline, also known as 3D printing, holds the promise of being the most powerful, efficient and versatile method of manufacturing, enabling a whole new world of products--complex shapes, compound geometries and compound materials that no designer could envision without it. It also holds the promise to speed logistics, reduce waste in materials and processes, and enable customization to a degree unimaginable with conventional
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NCMS Congratulates Dr. Thomas Kurfess on New Role as the Department of Energy Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Chief Manufacturing Officer

01-24-2019
Ann Arbor, Michigan The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) congratulates NCMS Board of Director Dr. Thomas Kurfess Ph.D., FSME, P.E. on his new position as the Chief Manufacturing Officer of Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL.) In addition to supporting ORNL’s pioneering research in advanced manufacturing, Dr. Kurfess will provide leadership on the development of new manufacturing platforms and controls systems that will enable autonomous manufacturing through robotics and
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NCMS Congratulates Dr. Thomas Kurfess on New Role as the Department of Energy Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Chief Manufacturing Officer

CTMA Magazine: Have a Presence in the 2019 Edition of the CTMA Magazine, an industry stand out!

01-23-2019
For the 7th straight year, NCMS will be publishing its CTMA Magazine highlighting CTMA projects, industry insights, and editorials from technical SMEs. NCMS is offering the chance to directly reach DoD decision-makers and NCMS member companies by purchasing an advertisement in this year’s magazine. Rates are extremely competitive. If interested reserve your spot by February 15, 2019. Space is limited and fills quickly. Download the 2019 CTMA Magazine rate and information guide.
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NCMS Hosting Pearl Harbor Shipyard Technology Showcase

01-22-2019
NCMS introduces innovative technology at Technology Showcase at Pearl Harbor Shipyard Jan 22-24 Pearl Harbor Shipyard, Hawaii — The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is hosting a Technology Showcase at the U.S. Naval Shipyard at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, January 22-24, 2019. The event will introduce new and innovative technologies, products, and processes that could assist the maintenance and sustainment communities with filling unmet needs. Through the Commercial
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NCMS Hosting Pearl Harbor Shipyard Technology Showcase

NCMS Technology Showcase taking place this week at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard

01-21-2019
NCMS is excited to host the first Technology Showcase at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Thirty-two companies are taking advantage of the opportunity to demonstrate their innovative technologies in front of key decision-makers. Organized through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program, maintenance and sustainment staff from across the island including nearby Hickam Air Force base and the Marine Corps base will also be attending this inaugural event. “This event
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2018 DoD Maintenance Symposium Confirms Maintenance is Key to Readiness

01-18-2019
2018 DoD Maintenance Symposium confirms maintenance is key to readiness Maintenance is the generator of readiness. Get the parts and we’ll generate the weapons systems—generate the readiness. Throughout the 2018 DoD Maintenance Symposium, held in Tampa, FL, December 17-20, recurring topics of innovation, collaboration, and empowerment underpinned the event theme of Maintaining America’s Lethal Competitive Edge. With a centrally-located, award-winning 20’ X 30’ booth, NCMS and the Commercial
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NCMS Member Maglogix® Wins 2018 Maintenance Innovation Challenge People’s Choice Award

01-18-2019
Congratulations to Jim Michael, president of Maglogix® LLC, who wowed the audience at the Maintenance Innovation Challenge, part of the DoD Maintenance Symposium that took place December 17-20 in Tampa, FL. His presentation, along with supporting testimonial from Susan Simms, NAVSEA Tactical Implementation Manager at the Puget Naval Shipyard, beat out the other 73 submissions and made a huge impact clearly demonstrating how the Maglogix® magnets can save time and effort, lower injury rates,
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NCMS Members Universal Synaptics and Lockheed Martin Sign Agreement to Solve Intermittent Anomalies

01-18-2019
Congratulations to Universal Synaptics and Lockheed Martin on their agreement to work together to help the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) solve intermittent faults. With a DoD goal of 80% mission-capable rates for certain critical aircraft platforms, Universal Synaptics’ Intermittent Fault Detection technology will be used to discover random fault anomalies in multi-domain electronics as well as wiring harnesses. This issue currently drives an estimated billion in annual maintenance costs
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NCMS Wins Best Large Booth at the 2018 DoD Maintenance Symposium

01-18-2019
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) was voted “Best 10 X 20 or Larger Booth” for its interactive footprint at the 2018 DoD Maintenance Symposium held in Tampa, FL from December 17-20, 2018. The 20’ X 30’ centrally-located space hosted seven technologies that ranged from fluid analysis to stand-up abrading machines, and wet blast deep cleaning and more. The booth was also home to two of the Maintenance Innovation Challenge finalists: Wet Technologies and Maglogix (winner
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REACT Lab awarded MIC Overall Winner for their AM Metal Tooling and Testing Equipment

01-18-2019
Congratulations to the 76th Commodities Maintenance Group, Tinker Air Force Base, who took home the Maintenance Innovation Challenge Overall Winner Award at the 2018 Defense Maintenance Symposium. They are working diligently to sustain the U.S. Air Force’s aging KC-135 Stratotanker, B-1 Lancer, B-52 Stratofortress, E-3 Sentry, and E-6 Mercury aircraft. With the difficulty of obtaining some parts for these legacy systems, the engineers at the Reverse Engineering And Critical Tooling (REACT) Lab
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Wishing our NCMS Members, Partners, and Friends a very Healthy, Happy and Successful New Year!

12-21-2018
As we close 2018 and prepare for 2019, we want to thank you for your continued support of advanced manufacturing, innovative technologies, and collaborative partnerships which are the strengths of NCMS. Here are a few highlights from this year that we are grateful for: 20th Anniversary of NCMS’ signature program, Commercial Technologies and Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Two wildly successfully NCMS Technology Showcases, with over 2700 attendees, one in Yokosuka Japan and one at the
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CTMA Wraps 2018 with Record Growth

12-20-2018
NCMS congratulates our Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) partners on the outstanding program performance in 2018. CTMA celebrated its 20th anniversary and continued gaining strength by posting another stellar year. A significant increase in the number of new projects attests to the ongoing maintenance and sustainment needs within the DoD. CTMA is integral to the solution for maintaining legacy equipment beyond its expected lifecycle and for supporting weapon system
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Next Stop: Hawaii

12-18-2018
The upcoming NCMS Technology Showcase: Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, January 22 - 24 2019, will host 28 companies looking to take advantage of the opportunity to demonstrate their technologies in front of key decision-makers. Organized through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program, maintenance and sustainment staff from across the island, including nearby Hickam Air Force base and the Marine Corps base, will also be attending this inaugural event. “This
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NCMS Member Perisense Digs Deeper to Illuminate Maintenance Challenges

12-18-2018
Having skilled maintainers is important to any lifecycle plan. Beyond skill level, having a clear picture of the Mean Time To Repair (MTTR) is a vital aspect of understanding the repair process. How long do tasks take? Where do bottlenecks occur? Having this information radically increases efficiency and productivity when it comes to weapon systems availability. There is a new approach to MTTR using data captured by sensors and then interpreted to pinpoint such important issues as:
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CTMA Program Supports Secretary of Defense Aircraft Maintenance Mandate

12-18-2018
On September 17, 2018, the Secretary of Defense General James Mattis sent a memorandum across the DoD: Mission Capability of Critical Aviation Platforms. In it he states: “As current Military Department program objective memorandums make clear, our Department faces budget constraints and shortfalls in aviation squadrons across the force. As a result, our aviation inventory and supporting infrastructure suffer from systemic underperformance, overcapitalization, and unrealized capacity.” It
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Free Cyber Readiness Program Offers SMBs A Path to Improved Cybersecurity

12-17-2018
If you’re not worried about cybersecurity, you should be. Cyber attacks are on the rise – last year there were 53,000 cyber incidents, according to Verizon’s latest Data Breach Investigation Report. This news is tough for all companies, and particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). According to the Ponemon Institute's 2017 State of Cybersecurity in Small & Medium-Sized Businesses report, the percentage of small businesses that have experienced a cyber attack in the past 12
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IT Briefcase Exclusive Interview: The Evolution of 3D Printing Technology

12-11-2018
From IT Briefcase 12/10/2018 While 3D Printing is drastically changing the future of manufacturing in America, its susceptibility to cyberattacks has made blockchain technology a necessary ingredient in securing data in the digital supply chain. Dr. Cosima Boswell-Koller, a Senior Project Manager at the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), discusses the importance of blockchain, as well as a new partnership between NCMS and the U.S. Army Research Laboratory – the
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NCMS member United Global Group brings data unity to DoD Maintenance Symposium

12-10-2018
Partnering with Hendrick Motorsports to analyze their innovative data collection process which determines when in a race their car should pit for gas or change tires, United Global Group (UGG) wants to provide the DoD with similar real-time sensor information using their new Commando Jeep. This year, the UGG booth, #527, will demonstrate the various ways that data can be collected including a drone operating in a cage, the Powernoodle™ — platform, the R3CMA Knowledge Management System, the
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Super magnet company Maglogix garners attention at the 2018 DoD Maintenance Symposium

12-07-2018
At his first DoD Maintenance Symposium last year, Maglogix president Jim Michael was pleased with the interest in his industrial patented multi-pole magnets. This year, the innovative magnets will take center stage in front of hundreds of DoD maintenance and sustainment decision makers as he presents as a finalist at the Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC). “I think one of the reasons that my Multi-Pole magnets were chosen as a technology finalist was because of the safety they provide
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New NCMS Member SurClean Sets Sights On Maintenance Innovation Challenge!

12-07-2018
SurClean, Inc.'s laser coating removal and surface preparation systems caught the eye of the MIC judges. They now have an opportunity to present their innovative technology in front of an audience filled with DoDdecision-makers. Their new mobile system premiered at the NCMS TechnologyShowcase at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and garnered lots of attention. Unlike legacy chemical, abrasive, and water blasting methods, SurClean’s laser ablation systems are very precise, energy
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Wet Technologies Has the Opportunity to "Clean Up" in the Maintenance Innovation Challenge

12-07-2018
Surface preparation is not new technology, but the technology developed by Wet Technologies closed loop Wet Blasting systems, is cleaner,safer, more efficient, faster, and more effective than the others. Frederick Greis,founder and CEO of Wet Technologies began using his technology at nuclear powerplants to decontaminate components after a power outage to remove the alpha andbeta particles. Then came the aviation MRO industry with its bevy of corrosion,dirt, paint, and other problems,
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Expert Educator Team Releases Final Report: Aligning Lightweight Technology and Manufacturing Talent Development

12-03-2018
College & University Faculty Team Concludes Series of Recommendations Addressing Competencies and Workforce Strategies for New Lightweighting Technologies DETROIT – Higher education and industry need to work together to adapt current curricula to reflect the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in work environments deploying new lightweighting technologies, materials, and processes according to a fourth and final report from LIFT’s Expert Educator Team (EET). Titled Aligning
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Expert Educator Team Releases Final Report: Aligning Lightweight Technology and Manufacturing Talent Development

NCMS Member MELD Named "Market Disruptor" at R&D 100 Awards

11-28-2018
From http://meldmanufacturing.com/ MELD Manufacturing Corporation’s patented MELD™ technology has earned a spot in the 2018 R&D 100 Awards, an international competition that recognizes the 100 most exceptional innovations in science and technology from the past year. MELD™ was selected as the single most disruptive new technology and received a special Market Disruptor award. MELD™, which was named an R&D 100 finalist in August, is a revolution for additive manufacturing and
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NCMS Welcomes New Member Intent Design

11-26-2018
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) would like to welcome new member Intent Design. A global company headquartered in Farmington Hills, Michigan, Intent Design is a diverse innovative team of engineers, designers, and artists who provide optimally engineered solutions for electrical, electronic, electro-mechanical, and mechanical products. Their team has an extensive innovative product portfolio across multiple industries with a collaborative process and a disciplined
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Visit the NCMS Booth at the DoD Maintenance Symposium

11-26-2018
Once again NCMS will have the prime location at this year’s DoD Maintenance Symposium held at the Tampa Convention Center, right in the middle of all the action. Mirroring the theme of the overall symposium, the NCMS booth will highlight innovative technologies that will assist with the lethality of our warfighter, through maintenance and sustainment. This year, the NCMS booth offers interactive, hands-on experiences. Our industry partners will enlighten attendees about technology that
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Meet the Staff: Marc Sharp

11-21-2018
In 1999, Marc Sharp enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Sharp has spent years honing his skills and reaching the rank of Gunnery Sergeant, leading Marines and training Marines on the basic fundamentals of combat marksmanship while maintaining 40+ heavy equipment machines. His Marine Corps travels have taken him to Africa, Eastern Europe, and Japan. In 2003, Sharp transferred into the Marine Corps Reserve, finished his bachelor’s degree at the University of Toledo, and entered “mostly”
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Lisa Strama: Protecting Additive Manufacturing Workflow with Blockchain Technology

11-08-2018
From CEO World Magazine Each December, CEOWorld magazine identifies the top five technology trends poised to transform the world in the New Year. In 2018, Blockchain and Additive Manufacturing/3D Printing were two digital platforms recognized for the dramatic impact they have on global enterprise, particularly in leading industries such as manufacturing, government, and supply chain. As more industries are realizing the benefits of additive manufacturing (AM), it follows that the
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LIFT Releases Report Highlighting Four Critical Imperatives Universities Must Take to Improve Engineering Work-And-Learn Models

11-06-2018
DETROIT – LIFT – Lightweight Innovations For Tomorrow, a Manufacturing USA institute, today announced the release of “Engineering Work-and-Learn: Imperatives for Innovation,” a report aimed to support universities work in better preparing engineering students for the workplace. The report captures four key imperatives for university faculty, administrators, and industry partners to innovate work-and-learn models to better prepare engineering students for work in industry. The four
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NCMS Technology Showcase at Portsmouth is the Beginning of a Long-Term Relationship

11-06-2018
Thirty-six companies and educational institutions attended the NCMS Technology Showcase at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Oct 24-26. Attendees from all over the shipyard were impressed and inspired by the innovative technologies. Word spread quickly that this was an event not to be missed. The presented technologies included metrology, fluid analysis, wiring fault finding, surface preparation and many others which, when implemented, will save time, improve production, and reduce costs. As a
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LIFT Releases Report Highlighting Four Critical Imperatives Universities Must Take to Improve Engineering Work-And-Learn Models

NCMS Technology Showcase at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Supports Warfighter Readiness

11-01-2018
While the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard was busy repairing and modernizing a variety of Los Angeles-class attack submarines, approximately 1,700 shipyard staff prioritized time to attend the recent NCMS Technology Showcase. The event introduced new and innovative technologies, products, and processes that could assist the maintenance and sustainment communities with filling unmet needs at the best cost. There were over 36 industry, academia, and non-profit exhibitors from across the U.S. that
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Maintenance Innovation Challenge Finalists Announced; Three NCMS Members Included

11-01-2018
The 2018 Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) finalists have been announced. Included in the six finalists this year are three NCMS member companies including Wet Technologies, SurClean, Inc., and new member, Maglogix, LLC. Joining these are submissions from the U.S. Army and Air Force. All finalists have been invited to present their technologies on Monday, December 17 at the DoD Maintenance Symposium in Tampa, Florida. The Joint Technology Exchange Group (JTEG) principals chose these
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19 NCMS Members Exhibiting at the 2018 DoD Maintenance Symposium

11-01-2018
The 2018 DoD Maintenace Symposium, starting December 17th in Tampa, Florida, is the only event sponsored by the Office of the Secretary of Defense solely focused on the maintenance and sustainment of weapon systems and equipment. NCMS has been an active participant in this event for many years and strongly encourages our member companies to participate and exhibit their innovative technologies. This year at least 19 NCMS members will be exhibiting. These companies include: Booth 321 -
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Maryland Dignitaries, Nation’s Top Manufacturers and Universities Convene in Aberdeen for AMMP Program Launch

10-26-2018
Maryland, Harford County Celebrate Region’s Selection and Support at NCMS, Army Research Lab AMMP Kickoff National Defense Technology Revolution with Additive Manufacturing Prowess ABERDEEN, Md. – 12:01 a.m. ET Friday, October 26, 2018 Aberdeen, Maryland, is the hub for a major additive manufacturing (3D printing) initiative leading to unprecedented speed in parts production, new weapon system design and materials, dramatic cuts in costs and delivery times, and point-of-need part
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Maryland Dignitaries, Nation’s Top Manufacturers and Universities Convene in Aberdeen for AMMP Program Launch

NCMS Appoints Two New Board Members

10-11-2018
Two New Members Join NCMS Board of Directors Neal Orringer and A. Donald Steinman strengthen mission to develop and transition innovative technologies Ann Arbor, Michigan -- 10/9/2018 The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) announced the addition of two new members to its Board of Directors today. The appointments of Neal Orringer, 3D Systems’ vice president of alliances and partnerships, and A. Donald Steinman, executive vice president and general manager,
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Thermal Wave Imaging Technology Successful

09-27-2018
The extensive use of composite materials in modern military aircraft poses a significant challenge to existing non-destructive inspection (NDI) technologies. In older aluminum aircraft, NDI could be performed by an inspector either visually or audibly, using a coin tap. Composite aircraft are more complex, since severe defects (e.g. ballistic impact damage, fluid ingress, delamination, adhesive disbonds) may not be visually detectable at the surface. Thermal Wave Imaging, Inc. (TWI)
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Sources Sought: Robust Wireless Technology Needed by NCMS Aviation Industry Partner

09-27-2018
NCMS is assisting an aviation industry partner to seek and evaluate technologies that can gather telemetry engine data via a wireless system to communicate between engine sensors and airframe. The system should be able to withstand: The “under engine cowl” environment during normal operation of commercial aircraft Temperature range outer limits estimated to be -30 - 350 degrees F, (-34 – 176 degrees C) Vibration and barometric pressure not considered to be extreme in this case,
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Project Spotlight: Improving the Effectiveness of Combat Wounded Warfighters

09-27-2018
When military equipment breaks, CTMA responds by developing tools and technologies to return assets to the fight with increased efficiency and effectiveness. CTMA is exploring improvements to return our most precious assets, our people, once they have been injured on the battlefield. Moving injured people safely and effectively is not a unique issue to the military. However, urban emergency responders with high-tech gurneys do not fit the needs of remote emergency responders, such as the
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New Marine Corps Just in Time Learning site goes live

09-20-2018
With technology and processes changing at lightning speed, the days when Marines could take the time to read and digest a manual to upgrade their skills and knowledge is gone. However, quickly learning new technologies and processes is no longer a challenge because the Marine Corps Global Combat Support System unit has a new “Jump Site” developed from the collaborative partnership between the Marine Corps, IR Technology, and NCMS. “One of the many benefits of the Just-in-Time Learning
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NCMS Appoints Lisa Strama as New President and CEO

09-17-2018
Ann Arbor Michigan – September 17, 2018. The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) Board of Directors is pleased to announce Lisa Strama will become the fifth NCMS President and CEO of this 32-year organization created by Executive Order to assist U.S. manufacturing. Lisa will succeed Rick Jarman who has led NCMS to an exciting period of sustainable growth and “we expect Lisa’s leadership to enhance our role in building and strengthening US manufacturing” said Courtney Hill, NCMS
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NCMS Member PTC Leads Charting Digital Transformation with IIoT Use Cases with Automation Alley

09-10-2018
Technology has the potential to transform every aspect of manufacturing, but charting the digital transformation journey and realizing its value can be overwhelming. Manufacturers around the globe and across industries struggle to decide where to begin, when to integrate digitization into business outcomes, and how to select the right high-value use cases. Learn
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Press Release: NCMS Ignites the Advanced Manufacturing Revolution with U.S. Army Research Laboratory

08-13-2018
August 13, 2018 Ann Arbor Michigan NCMS Partners with ARL on AMMP to Solve the Complexities of Additive Manufacturing The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), a leader in innovation through collaboration, has reached an agreement with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) in Aberdeen, Maryland to manage the Advanced Manufacturing, Materials, and Processes (AMMP) program. The newly established AMMP, a collaboration of government, industry, and academic partners will lead to
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The New Decentralized Model of Secure Manufacturing

08-07-2018
Originally published 7/31/2018 at Industry Today As more and more industries are realizing the benefits of additive manufacturing (AM), the transportation, distribution, and security of the needed digital files has become a major topic of consideration. The products of AM are only as viable as the integrity of the digital files and the printers that create them. The Department of Defense (DoD) is using AM for several maintenance activities and the security of those pieces cannot be left to
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NCMS' AMMP Consortium Launches First RPP

08-06-2018
Last week, NCMS released the first request for prototype proposal (RPP) for the newly founded Advanced Manufacturing Materials and Processes (AMMP) Consortium. As with all future AMMP RPPs, RPP 18-01, “Additive Manufacturing of Next Generation High Strength Aluminum Alloys,” is now open to response from AMMP members. To learn more about AMMP and AMMP membership, visit https://www.ncms.org/ammp/. For questions about AMMP RPP 18-01, AMMP members may
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First ever Technology Showcase at U.S. Naval Facility in Japan attended by record crowd

08-03-2018
Despite record heat and humidity, over 1,000 people attended the first-ever NCMS Technology Showcase at the U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility in Yokosuka, Japan. The repair facility is responsible for repairing and maintaining the entire 7th fleet and is the largest overseas U.S. Naval installation. It is considered one of the most strategically important bases in the U.S. military. Most categories of naval vessels are serviced there including command ships, aircraft carriers, destroyers,
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Funding Deadline for New CTMA Projects August 17

08-02-2018
Important deadline!: The window for project funding through Commercial Technology for Maintenance Activities (CTMA)’s Cooperative Agreement is closing very soon. Funding must be received in house no later than Friday, August 17 in order to leverage this contract vehicle for all obligated projects. For more information contact Debbie
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Project Spotlight: Advanced Mobile Universal Electrical Tooling (AMUET) Brings ATE Avionics Anomaly Detection to the Flight Line

07-25-2018
NCMS’ industry partners have been involved for years in the development of technologies to improve identification and repair of anomalies in complex electrical systems. These anomalies are a common source of maintenance problems, but as electrical systems grow more complex, they become more difficult to locate. Traditionally, technicians would use automatic test equipment (ATE) or handheld meters to resolve them, but the latter are time-consuming to use and vulnerable to human error, while the
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NCMS Releases "Protecting the Additive Manufacturing Workflow with Blockchain Technology" White Paper

07-23-2018
As more and more industries are realizing the benefits of additive manufacturing (AM), the transportation, distribution, and security of the needed digital files has become a major topic of consideration. The products of AM are only as viable as the integrity of the digital files and the printers that create them. The Department of Defense (DoD) is using AM for several maintenance activities and the security of those pieces cannot be left to chance. Today, the sheer volume of data produced
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NCMS Welcomes Three New Staff Members

07-18-2018
NCMS is glad to welcome three new additions to the team, Cosima Boswell-Koller, Jennifer Khoury, and Eleanor Shelton! Coming from diverse backgrounds and each supporting different aspects of NCMS’ work, their arrival will be a major help as NCMS continues to grow its portfolio of projects and initiatives. We’re excited to have them on board! Cosima Boswell-Koller, PhD joins NCMS as a Senior Project Manager. She comes to us from NAVAIR Patuxent River, where she has worked in the Materials
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NCMS Member Merit Network Expands Cybersecurity Footprint with Cyber Range

07-11-2018
Most of Michigan’s citizens conduct online business with companies every day. You may be one of the millions of residents in our state that, possibly hundreds of times a day, downloads and uploads web-based information. Everything from business to banking, from education to property, from medical to transportation, and from defense to entertainment is hosted as digital information. And the unfortunate reality is that all of it is at risk to cyberattacks every day. Consider the broad
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Follow NCMS Updates by Email and on Social Media

06-27-2018
We’re midway through the 20th year of NCMS’ Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program, and so far, it has been a whirlwind. We don’t know if you’ve been keeping track—sometimes, it’s hard for us too! In our roster of programs, CTMA has been joined by the Advanced Manufacturing Materials and Processes (AMMP) Working Group; NCMS staff have organized, manned booths, and spoken at a spate of industry and Department of Defense events; and, this week, NCMS and several partners
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2018 Maintenance Innovation Challenge Competition Open

06-27-2018
Submissions for the 2018 Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) are being accepted! The competition, announced by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Maintenance Policy and Programs (OASD MPP), will take place at the Department of Defense (DoD) Maintenance Symposium in Tampa this December. The MIC identifies promising new maintenance technologies with the potential to enhance the maintenance operations of the U.S. Armed Forces, bolstering their readiness and the nation’s
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NCMS Investing in Additive Manufacturing: NCMS to Open New Manufacturing Center in Maryland

06-25-2018
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is pleased to announce plans to establish a new manufacturing innovation center in Harford County, Maryland. Focusing on developing next-generation industrial additive manufacturing, materials, and processes, this facility will house leading engineers and the world’s most powerful production technology. Collaboration at the center will lead to scientific breakthroughs in metallurgy and plastics, as well as the launch of new factory
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Project Spotlight: Degradation Prevention for Long-Term Tire Storage Sustainment

06-25-2018
Improving Tire Durability in Storage with PPG Protective Coatings A serious problem affecting vehicle maintenance operations is the degradation that tires and rim sets undergo when kept in long-term storage. “For years,” the automotive web publication Edmunds reports, “people have relied on a tire's tread depth to determine its condition. But the rubber compounds in a tire deteriorate with time, regardless of the condition of the tread.”[1] This problem affects car, truck, bus, and tractor
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NCMS This Quarter: Non-Destructive Inspection

06-25-2018
NCMS is dedicating the third quarter of 2018 to non-destructive inspection (NDI)—the methods and technologies that allow systems and components to be assessed while leaving them unaltered. Many common inspection methods rely on placing stress on, extracting samples from, or damaging an object in a controlled way to assess its performance or integrity. However, the modern world is full of examples of infrastructure, vehicles and vehicles systems, and machinery—engines, aircraft wings, bridge
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NCMS Welcomes Q2 New Members, Additions to AMMP

06-25-2018
The second quarter of 2018 has been a busy one for NCMS. May saw both our annual Members Meeting and the CTMA/DLA Partners Meeting in May in Richmond, VA, at which the range of our membership’s capabilities was on full view. Elsewhere, we helped organize the Michigan Manufacturers Association’s 2018 MFG Forum, gave out our first CTMA Leadership Award, and crowned this year’s winner of the CTMA Technology Competition. We were also joined by eight new members, including some new members of the
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2018 DoD Advanced Composite Maintainers TIM Recap

06-21-2018
NCMS thanks all the presenters, exhibitors, and attendees who joined us at North Island Naval Air Station for the 2018 DoD Advanced Composite Maintainers Technical Interchange Meeting. This year’s event took place in Coronado, CA at the Island Club at North Island Naval Air Station between June 12 to 14. The event featured speeches, working group sessions, and a tabletop reception at which participants showcased their technologies, all focusing on the manufacturing, tooling, deployment, and
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2018 Advance Composite Maintainers TIM Recap

06-20-2018
TUESDAY, June 12 7:30-8:30 Registration 8:30-8:45 Introduction/Opening Remarks Ken Patterson, AFLCMC, Air Force 8:45-9:00 Welcome Capt. A.K. Jaramillo, FRC-SW Commanding Officer 9:00-9:30 Your Role in OSD Maintenance Strategies for Advanced Materials Greg Kilchenstein, OSD Enterprise Maintenance Technology 9:30-10:00 Composite Maintainer’s TIM Organization and Future Direction Jared Wright, NAVAIR, and Kevin Tienda, AFRL 10:00-10:30 Break – Visit Table Top Displays 10:30-10:50 Newer
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Bureau of Labor Statistics: Employment Continues to Grow in Manufacturing, across Economy

06-08-2018
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLM) reported strong job growth and falling unemployment rates in May, with over 18,000 manufacturing jobs added last month: “Total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 223,000 in May, and the unemployment rate edged down to 3.8 percent, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Employment continued to trend up in several industries, including retail trade, health care, and construction.” “The unemployment rate edged down to 3.8 percent in May,
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Twenty years in the making, CTMA Partners Meeting celebrates the program's accomplishments

06-04-2018
The 2018 CTMA/DLA Partners Meeting was an intensive three days of engaging speeches, interactive maintenance focused technology panels, multiple project presentations tracks, and a stimulating technology competition that concluded the event. With the theme of “Supplying Game Changing Technology to the DoD’s maintenance community,” it was a gathering of government and industry partners all focused on enhancing warfighter readiness. Partners at the meeting were offered a tour of Defense
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NCMS, APLU, & LIFT Host Workshop on Revamping Work-and-Learn Strategies in Higher Ed

05-24-2018
On June 4-5, NCMS, along with the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities (APLU) and Lightweight Innovations for Tomorrow (LIFT), a Manufacturing USA institute, will be holding a meeting titled “Securing the Future of American Engineering & Manufacturing,” subtitled “A Workshop on the New, Re-Imagined World of Universities and Work-and-Learn Workforce Development Strategies,” in Washington, DC. Over the past year, NCMS has been engaged in a partnership with APLU and LIFT to
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2018 CTMA/DLA Partners Meeting Recap

05-17-2018
NCMS would like to thank all the participants, presenters, and exhibitors at the 2018 CTMA/DLA Partners Meeting! Thanks also go out to the sponsor of this year’s event, Siemens, and the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for hosting it at DLA Distribution Richmond. CTMA Partners Meetings serve as lively, engaging, and informative venues for project participants from government and industry to learn and connect. Our three days together provided a welcome opportunity to network face-to-face, share
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Project Spotlight: Composite Inspection with a Wide Field of Vision: Thermal Wave Imaging’s LASLAT System

05-17-2018
Large-Standoff, Large-Area Thermography (LASLAT) Nondestructive testing has played a central role in the long-running struggle against aviation accidents. In the 1990s, technicians used dye penetrant inspection and magnetic-particle and fluorescent-particle methods to detect fine cracks in engine components, a step up from trying to spot cracks with a borescope or the naked eye. It was these methods that would be lumped together under the name “non-destructive inspection” (NDI). Of
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Meet the Staff: John Keippala

05-17-2018
One of John’s earliest memories was flying to Pakistan as a five-year-old when his father got a new a job as a primary school teacher. This first intercontinental flight is the experience to which John attributes his love of all things aerospace. At the age of 24, he was enrolled at the University of Michigan, continuing his path toward becoming an aerospace engineer. After he graduated in 1996, he was hired by Hughes Space and Communications. In 2000, Hughes was purchased by Boeing, and John
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Michigan Manufacturers Association Forum Recap

05-17-2018
NCMS extends its thanks to all the Michigan manufacturers and business leaders who participated in the Michigan Manufacturers Association’s 2018 MFG Forum. The theme of this year’s forum was the fourth industrial revolution or Industry 4.0; the event focused on the impact that automation, digitalization, the Internet of Things, and modern energy storage technologies will have on the Michigan economy and how Michigan companies can adapt to and leverage emerging technologies to attain
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NCMS Celebrates CTMA’s 20th Anniversary with its First Annual Member Meeting

05-16-2018
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) hosted its first annual NCMS Membership Meeting last week in Richmond VA. Designed to highlight the variety of ways NCMS members benefit from their membership, the meeting was attended by potential, new, and experienced members. “Our intention was to provide our members the opportunity to receive updates on NCMS and network in a small group, face-to-face environment for maximum connectivity. Hearing from other members how they best use
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Department of Defense recognizes the first CTMA Leadership Award winner

05-16-2018
Angela Padgett, Fleet Readiness Center (FRC) East 4.0 Advanced Technology IPT Lead, receives first CTMA Leadership Award Ann Arbor, MI, May 16, 2018 — Angela Padgett, advanced technology lead with the Fleet Readiness Center (FRC) East, at Cherry Point, NC received the first CTMA Leadership Award for her dedication to the Product Lifecycle Management program in support of the NAVAIR community. Presented during the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Annual Partners
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Maglogix, LLC Wins 2018 CTMA Technology Competition with Multi-Pole Permanent Magnets

05-11-2018
On Wednesday, May 9, Maglogix, LLC won the 2018 CTMA Technology Competition at the CTMA/DLA Partners Meeting in Richmond, VA. Maglogix, LLC presented on the use of phase-cancelling multi-pole permanent magnets (MP magnets) to improve the safety and efficiency of manual work in maintenance settings. Maglogix incorporates MP magnets into mounts, fixtures, and handlifters that help technicians manipulate heavy tools, equipment, and material, e.g., for mounting power drills and holding metal
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Minnesota Wire: Fast, Flexible, and Adaptable Wiring Assembly Manufacturing

05-10-2018
Member Spotlight: Minnesota Wire An array of industries—medical, defense, instrumentation, smart clothing, and telecommunications—require custom wiring solutions, and NCMS member Minnesota Wire supplies wire, cable, and interconnect assemblies to all of them. The company is a market and R&D leader in electrical signal integrity, low-noise cable, and radio-translucent wire, and its vertically integrated structure allows it to execute solutions from concept to production flexibly, quickly,
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Adding Blockchain Capabilities for DoD and IC Customers

05-04-2018
NCMS and Guardtime Federal Sign Contract for KSI Blockchain Ann Arbor, Michigan -- 5/4/2018 The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences and Guardtime Federal have signed a contract as the key supplier for KSI Blockchain software and services. Guardtime Federal provides a US-based, permission-based blockchain that differs from the typical Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) approach as it does not proliferate the customer’s information to a large community as part of a root of
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Enhancing Volumetric Accuracy of Large Machine Tools

04-25-2018
From Modern Machine Shop https://www.mmsonline.com/blog/post/enhancing-volumetric-accuracy-of-large-machine-tools MARK ALBERT Editorial Director, Modern Machine Shop Large, monolithic parts are the trend in many aerospace and defense systems. These parts call for machine tools with the capacity to process them, often in three, four or five axes. However, it is difficult to maintain the accuracy of large machine structures, especially in the outer reaches of axis movement. Calibrating
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Universal Synaptics Ken Anderson, Featured NCMS Member Meeting Panelist, Promoted to President & CEO

04-23-2018
Congratulations to NCMS member Universal Synaptics on the recent promotion of Ken Anderson to President & CEO. Join Ken at the upcoming NCMS Member Meeting in Richmond, VA on May 7th. Ken Anderson, who for the past 10 years has served as the company’s Vice President – Sales and Business Development, will serve as President and Chief Executive Officer. Jon Lee will join the company as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Nate Johnson has been appointed Vice President
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PPG Adhesives Help Vehicle Manufacturers Build Lighter, Stronger

04-20-2018
When automotive engineers look to improve the fuel economy of their vehicles, increasing the efficiency of their engines is only half of the equation. Maximizing the number of miles an engine can eke out from one gallon of fuel only goes so far before they have to consider the weight of the car that engine propels. That’s the reason lightweighting has become a major area of interest for vehicle manufacturers; a lighter vehicle burns less fuel than a heavier one to accelerate by the same amount.
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NCMS Attends MRO Americas

04-19-2018
From April 10-12, NCMS attended MRO Americas Aviation Week, a leading industry event for commercial aviation and air transport. MRO Americas provided an outstanding opportunity to share knowledge and best-practices, catch a glimpse of industry trends and innovations, and promote the maintenance and sustainment capabilities of NCMS and its network. This year’s MRO featured over 800 exhibitors. MRO Americas regularly hosts over 15,000 attendees who come from air carriers, distributors,
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Join NCMS, Universal Synaptics, Automated Precision today at MRO

04-10-2018

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Emerging Project Exploration: Aircraft Lightening Strikes

04-04-2018
As part of an emerging project exploration, an NCMS partner is seeking images of planes that have been damaged because of lightning strikes to the aircraft. After a strike, many times there is visible exterior damage – a superficial entry or exit wound – or minor injury to the plane’s electrical systems, but a strike typically leaves little or no evidence. However, if photographs have been taken of the strike site, even with no visible damage, these images would also be welcome. Any
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The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) Signs Agreement with Moog to Perform Co-Funded Work Supporting Adaptation of Blockchain Technology for Additive Manufacturing

04-03-2018
Ann Arbor MI, April 2, 2018 – The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B) have signed an 18 month contract to perform co-funded work in support of applying Moog’s VeriPart™ solution, adapting blockchain technology for additive manufacturing. This agreement will allow Moog’s VeriPart™ solution to be demonstrated via Microsoft Azure Blockchain. NCMS will provide project and contract management while leveraging this project to enhance Department of
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NCMS Welcomes Q1 New Members, Additions to AMMP

03-28-2018
2017 was a momentous year for NCMS, filled with new partnerships, initiatives, and offerings for its membership. Now, in the first months of 2018, NCMS has been joined by seven new members, including members of its new Advanced Manufacturing Materials Processes (AMMP) working group. AMMP is a new partnership with the Army Research Lab (ARL) to apply Additive Manufacturing (AM) to needs in today’s defense manufacturing landscape, accelerating production, increasing the cost-effectiveness and
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NCMS This Quarter: Focus on Composites and Advanced Materials

03-27-2018
Next month, NCMS is launching the first of its theme quarters, dedicated to highlighting the work of NCMS and its partners on a specific technology or area of manufacturing. The theme for April-June 2018 is Composites and Advanced Materials, focusing on materials that combine multiple substances in layers or more complex configurations to create amalgamations with unique properties. Numerous NCMS projects involve the design, production, application, and maintenance of these materials, and the
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Perisense Sensors Retrofit Shop Floors with IIoT Connectivity

03-27-2018
The modern shop floor poses an interesting conundrum for manufacturers: In one sense, it operates more efficiently than it ever has, with numerous machines performing more work with minimal human supervision or intervention. In another, that lack of human involvement creates a blind spot—absent major breakdowns or failures, manufacturers have little knowledge about how well their machines are actually operating. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) based technologies are rushing in to remedy
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Thermal Wave Imaging, Honeywell, Show Potential of CTMA Technology Competition Wins

03-27-2018
NCMS is currently accepting submissions for the 2018 CTMA Technology Competition, and submissions will be accepted until April 6. Participants can download and submit an abstract and quad chart here. Finalists' presentations for the CTMA Technology Competition will take place at the CTMA/DLA Partners Meeting, May 7-9, 2018 in Richmond, VA; register now to attend. From Presentations to DoD Partnerships: The CTMA Technology Competition Winners NCMS’ CTMA Technology Competition has been a
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The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences and the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing Announce New Collaboration

03-22-2018
Prince George County, Va. — Today the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CCAM) announced they have entered a mutual Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This MOU indicates CCAM will join NCMS effectively immediately; NCMS will join CCAM as a Government Member. NCMS is expected to officially be voted into the consortium during CCAM’s May 3rd board meeting. The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is one of the
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NCMS Member Merit Network and Partner Security Vitals Partner on New Initiative

03-19-2018
NCMS congratulates member Merit Network which will be collaborating with Security VItals on product reviews for SC Magazine. Press release provided by Security Vitals: Security Vitals has been awarded a new contract with Haymarket Media, publisher of SC Magazine. After an extensive search and review process, Haymarket Media selected Security Vitals as the firm to conduct SC Magazine product reviews beginning in 2018. This latest venture reinforces Security Vitals’ thought leadership in the
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Manufacturing Talent in a High Tech World podcast features NCMS' Pam Hurt

03-15-2018
NCMS' Pam Hurt joined Michigan Spotlight Radio's Business Rap Program for "Manufacturing Talent in a High Tech World," with a panel of experts including, Gary Carr, Bekum America Corp., Tom Alongi, UHY Advisors, Brett Gerrish, Michigan Manufacturers Association (M.M.A), moderated by Elyse Kopietz, of the M.M.A. This 4 part series covered the following topics: Industry 4.0: Opportunities & Threats for the Michigan Manufacturer; What is Industry 4.0? Looking back 10 years, what
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NCMS Members API, MCT Present Automated Measurement and Inspection Technology at FRCE

03-13-2018
Last month, NCMS member, Automated Precision, Inc. (API) presented updates on a new “time spectral measurement interferometry” (TSMI) sensor technology to a technical team at Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) in Cherry Point, NC. As part of the Logistics Innovation Project (LIF), API is developing a semi-automated measuring system for non-destructive inspection (NDI) of turbine engine rotor compressor blades. The system incorporates several of API’s technologies including their TSMI sensor
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NCMS, LIFT, APLU Release New Set of Recommendations to Prepare Higher Education Students for Lightweight Manufacturing Advancements

03-06-2018
NCMS leadership worked with APLU and LIFT to establish a second report with recommendations on Aligning Technology and Talent Development. College & University Faculty Team Recommends Paths to Building Competencies and Workforce Strategies for New Lightweighting Technologies DETROIT – A new report from leading higher education and workforce experts details a second set of recommendations for colleges and universities to modify current curricula to reflect the knowledge and skills
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SAS Institute, NCMS Bridge NAVAIR Aircraft Maintenance Gap

02-22-2018
For the U.S. Navy Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), keeping aircraft operational and ready for flight is an integral part of its role in protecting national security. The issue of how to make maintenance more efficient, conserve resources, and deliver increased uptime for the time and effort expended is of some urgency for NAVAIR; for several years, it has struggled with an “RBA gap” that has constrained its readiness and capability. Data analytics capability is a major barrier—and a crucial
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NCMS Congratulates Members Navitas and Lockheed Martin on New US Lithium Custom Cell Manufacturing Line

02-20-2018
Navitas Systems LLC (www.navitassys.com), a leading provider of lithium energy storage products for commercial, industrial, and government/military customers, announced today that it has installed a new, automated lithium-ion cell production line at its Advanced Solutions Group facility in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This state-of-the-art facility has the capability to produce more than one million custom format pouch cells per year, enabling Navitas to design, prototype, and produce advanced cell
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NCMS’ Senior Vice President Rebecca Taylor approved for a seat on the DHS’ Critical Manufacturing Sector Coordinating Council

02-13-2018
NCMS Joining Department of Homeland Security’s Critical Manufacturing Sector Coordinating Council Ann Arbor, Michigan -- 2/12/2018 The executive committee of the Department of Homeland Security’s Critical Manufacturing Sector Coordinating Council has approved NCMS’ Senior Vice President Rebecca Taylor to represent the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences as a member of the Council. To effectively utilize industry and government resources devoted to security, the Council has been
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NCMS' Dana Ellis cited in "Test and Measurement Gear Evolves to Measure AM Parts"

02-06-2018
AdvancedManufacturing.org cites NCMS' Senior Program Manager Dana Ellis on the importance of Additive Manufacturing in the DoD. A look at some of the more challenging AM applications, as envisioned by the US Department of Defense, illustrates the direction some of the technical solutions may take. According to Dana Ellis, senior project manager for the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (Ann Arbor, MI), the DOD is heavily researching AM as a way of solving some of its unique problems.
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CTMA Technology Competition Extended to April 20

01-24-2018
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Maintenance Policy and Programs are pleased to announce that the CTMA Technology Competition will be returning this year! NCMS will begin accepting submissions in early February. The deadline for submissions is April 20, 2018. The six finalists will be announced on April 12 and will be invited to present their submissions in person on May 9. Presentations need to be in
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NCMS Calls for Presenters to Showcase Technologies at DoD Advanced Composite Maintainers Technical Interchange Meeting

01-24-2018
NCMS is accepting submissions for speakers highlighting new technologies at the 2018 Department of Defense (DoD) Advanced Composite Maintainers Technical Interchange Meeting (TIM). Presenting at the TIM is an exceptional opportunity to tout your organization’s achievements, current projects, and specialized expertise to a broad cross-section of industry and the defense maintenance community. Subject matter should be related to composite materials and maintenance. Submission is open to all
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IFDIS Intermittent Fault Detection Incorporated into F/A-18 Engineering Specifications

01-24-2018
The IFDIS (Intermittent Fault Detection and Isolation System) project reached a new milestone: The F/A-18 Fleet Support Team (FST) Avionics Branch, working closely with the Advanced Technology Innovation (ATI) Team at the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, incorporated full IFDIS testing into the Local Engineering Specifications (LES) of the Generator Converter Unit (GCU) of F/A-18A-D Block Super Hornet aircraft. The F/A-18 is a supersonic, multi-role combat aircraft used by the US Navy. The GCU
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SVP Rebecca Taylor Talks 21st-Century Manufacturing at Bentonville Conference

01-24-2018
NCMS Senior Vice President Rebecca Taylor spoke last week at the Bentonville Conference on American Life hosted by Walmart. Ms. Taylor was part of a panel of experts that discussed American manufacturing in the 21st century and how the workforce of the future will evolve to accommodate emerging technologies. The event brought together leaders from industry, academia, and think tanks to discuss how American families are living and working in their communities and how technological change will
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Meet the Staff: Nicholas Brown

01-23-2018
Nick Brown has always known what he likes: organization, logistics, and processes that make sense. He readily admits that he is a list person and often begins the day with a list of tasks he can cross off. “I am a very organized person. I like to plan things out and keep track of projects to make sure that I am going in the right direction,” Nick says. He received his bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Operations Engineering and a certificate in Entrepreneurship, both from the University
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Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for 2018 from NCMS!

12-13-2017
A message from Rick Jarman, NCMS President: As we approach the holidays, we look back on an exciting year for NCMS. 2017 was a year full of great strides and new opportunities that saw NCMS successfully complete over two-dozen collaborative projects with government and industry partners and launch over 40 more. In the meantime, our organization broadened its resource offerings to our network, and we continue to expand and strengthen its network of relationships with federal agencies seeking
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NCMS Announces Retirement of Haynes, Chenevert

12-11-2017
NCMS is announcing the retirement of two of our senior program managers – Tony Haynes and Bill Chenevert. They both have had distinguished careers with NCMS with a combined 39 years of service. Tony Haynes joined NCMS in 1992 following 29 years with Texas Instruments. Over his 25 years with NCMS he’s led the CTMA team as Senior Program Manager and served as the Interim Director of CTMA. Additionally, Tony has managed several projects to Defense Maintenance Excellence and R&D 100
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Advertise Your Organization in the 2018 CTMA Magazine

12-11-2017
Production of the 20th-anniversary edition of the CTMA magazine is underway, and NCMS is offering the opportunity to advertise in its pages to both members and non-members. The CTMA magazine features expert contributions on industry trends, highlights developments in commercial maintenance technology, and showcases the work done by NCMS partners through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) program. It is released every year in May and reaches an engaged audience of
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2017 Maintenance Innovation Challenge Winner Announced

12-11-2017
Congratulations to Justin Massey and Andrea Boxell from NAVAIR for winning the 2017 Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) at the DoD Maintenance Symposium. Their winning technology, DRIFT Composite Heat Damage Evaluation of V-22 Wing, aims to solve the problem of uncertainty of undetected incipient heat damage in composite materials used on DoD aircraft after a high-temperature event. Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform (DRIFT) is a chemical analysis technique used for
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U.S. Air Force Logistics Honored with Prestigious General Spencer Award for Innovation

12-11-2017
One Network and NCMS Accelerate U.S. Air Force Logistics and Acquisitions The Logistics Information Technology Innovation Team was recently presented with the prestigious Gen. Larry O. Spencer Innovation Award, an annual award intended to recognize an individual or team whose actions demonstrate innovation in cost and manpower savings to improve efficiency, operational readiness, and replication of the innovation across the Air Force enterprise. Lieutenant Colonel Bradley Fisher was
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NCMS Welcomes 6 New Members in Q4

12-05-2017
In the last quarter of 2017, NCMS added six new members who bring a wide assortment of capabilities and expertise to our organization. The American Ceramic Society, Analatom, Delta, Elevate, and Minnesota Wire joined NCMS since October, deepening and strengthening its roster of partnerships and helping to bolster the largest cross-industry, collaborative research and development consortium in North America. We welcome our new members and look forward to collaborating with them on their
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NCMS and the DoD celebrate 20 years of collaboration through CTMA

11-30-2017
Ann Arbor, Michigan -- 11/30/2017 The U.S. military has become more efficient, more productive, and better prepared because of its partnership with the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS). To protect our country, the Department of Defense (DoD) has looked to organizations such as NCMS and its Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) program to provide solutions to its equipment, sustainment, and maintenance needs. CTMA enables the military to work with NCMS
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NCMS to Livestream Portions of DoD Maintenance Symposium

11-30-2017
NCMS will be livestreaming 3 sessions during the 2017 DoD Maintenance Symposium. These sessions include: Maintenance Innovation Challenge Panel Monday, December 4, 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm EST Tech Data, Intellectual Property, and Weapon System Sustainment Wednesday, December 6, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm EST CBM+: A Materiel Readiness Enabler Thursday, December 7, 10:00 am - 12:00 am EST. All sessions can be livestreamed at: https://ncms.adobeconnect.com/mxsymposium/ More information
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Booz Allen Hamilton, NCMS Provide Roadmap to Augment USAF Energy Assurance

11-29-2017
NCMS Project Spotlight: Minimizing the Air Force Vulnerability During Smart Grid Upgrades NCMS and member Booz Allen Hamilton are increasing the U.S. Air Force’s awareness of energy solutions and areas in which new technologies can be incorporated into Air Force facilities. Their efforts support a thrust by the Air Force Secretariat to sustain and improve installations’ electric service. Assuring reliable access to energy and increasing the resilience of energy infrastructure have become
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Meet the Staff: Lisa Stobierski

11-29-2017
Ms. Lisa Stobierski is a Senior Project Manager at NCMS overseeing major collaborative R&D projects between industry, academia, and the government, sponsored by DoD and the EPA. These projects include, but are not limited to, the development and evaluation of innovations for coatings and their applications processes, including thermal spray and powder coating, light-weighting applications for next-generation combat vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and projects for the combat support
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Aerospace Manufacturing and Design Spotlights Siemens, NCMS CNC Project

11-20-2017
Results of a CTMA project, Volumetric Accuracy for Large Machine Tools completed in 2010, play a prominent role in a recent feature article in Aerospace Manufacturing and Design Magazine. The CTMA project was a collaboration of Siemens Energy and Automation, The Boeing Company, Cincinnati Machine (now a part of FIVES Automation), Automated Precision Inc. (API), Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, and the Naval Foundry and Propeller Center. The feature article of the October 2017 issue of
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Aerospace Maintenance Council Hosts First Ever Defense Maintenance Competition

11-16-2017
The Aerospace Maintenance Council will host the first Defense Maintenance Competition Monday, December 4 from 12:30-1:00 p.m. and then 4:30-7:00 p.m. during the Defense Maintenance and Logistics Exhibition. This competition recognizes and celebrates aviation/defense maintenance technicians and raises awareness of the knowledge and skill required to maintain safe, airworthy aircraft, worldwide. The competition provides an opportunity for current and future maintenance v bprofessionals to
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Meet NCMS at the 2017 DoD Maintenance Symposium

11-16-2017
The 2017 DoD Maintenance Symposium will be held from December 4-7 at the Calvin L. Rampton Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City. The symposium is a venue for knowledge-sharing and networking among maintainers, industry leaders, military and government officials, and all other members of the DoD maintenance community. This year’s theme is “Maintaining the Joint Force Competitive Advantage through Innovative, Agile, and Adaptive Capabilities.” Event details and registration information
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NCMS Sr. VP Rebecca Taylor to speak at new Industry 4.0 conference, Integr8™, Nov. 9 in Detroit

11-02-2017
Rebecca Taylor, Sr. VP of NCMS will be speaking at Integr8™, a new cross-discipline global conference focused on Industry 4.0 technologies, Nov. 9 in Detroit. The conference, the first of its kind to tackle the integration of the eight technologies currently disrupting the manufacturing industry, is being hosted by Automation Alley. Rebecca will be sharing her expertise in cybersecurity for IT/OT, one of eight technologies associated with Industry 4.0, also known as the fourth industrial
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Pendaran offers free training to NCMS Member organizations.

10-31-2017
Pendaran is continuing an exclusive offering to NCMS members. During the Pendaran training sessions in December and January, NCMS member organizations have the opportunity to send 3 participants to Pendaran Virtual Workplace – Experience Simulator, free of charge, a 00 value. These sessions will be held at the NCMS facility in Ann Arbor. Member organizations can spread their 3 free courses across the scheduled classes found on the NCMS events page. Not an NCMS Member? You can start
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Applying Blockchain Digital Asset Technology to Additive Manufacturing

10-26-2017
“The future of Air Force logistics will find Airmen tapping into a secure digital network of archived additive manufacturing specifications, allowing for the 3D-printed creation of a weapons system component whenever and wherever needed.” General Pawlikowski, AFMC Commander, AFA Conference Sept 2017. Blockchain is a distributed ledger that provides a way for information to be recorded and shared within a network or organization. The information could represent transactions, contracts,
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Join NCMS at the DoD Maintenance Symposium Dec 4 - 6

10-25-2017
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) will be exhibiting in booth 319 in support of the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) program at the 2017 Department of Defense (DOD) Maintenance Symposium and Exhibition in Salt Lake City, UT. In the booth, along with NCMS are six partners; Analatom Inc, Automated Precision Inc., Benchmark Electronics Inc, Hexagon Manufacturing, Spectro Scientific, and Universal Synaptics Corporation. For bios about these NCMS member
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2017 Maintenance Innovation Challenge Finalists Announced

10-25-2017
The 2017 Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC) finalists have been announced. The 6 finalist will present their MIC submissions at the DoD Maintenance Symposium in December. Expeditionary Hydraulic Fluid Analysis Yurko, Robert / Henning, Patrick Spectro Scientific Small Unmanned Aerial System (sUAS) Morris, Timothy / Ivory, Charles U.S. Air Force, 412th Test Wing, 412th Maintenance Group DRIFT Composite Heat Damage Evaluation of V-22 Wing Thompson, Robert / Massey,
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Save the Date for the 2018 CTMA Annual Partners and Integrated Project Meeting

10-25-2017
Join NCMS for the 2018 CTMA Annual Partners and Integrated Project Meeting, 7-9 May 2018 in Richmond, VA at the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). The focus of this year’s event is “Supplying Game Changing Technology to DoD’s Sustainment Community”. The CTMA program has the ideal collaborative model for manufacturers, academia, and DoD with the unique ability to cut through “red tape” and launch a new project within 45 days of receiving approval to proceed with a project or initiative.
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NCMS Joins GE Minds + Machines Exclusive Event

10-23-2017
With an exclusive invitation, NCMS' Rebecca Taylor will join the GE Minds + Machines General Counsel Forum: Policy Challenges around the Industrial Internet. This forum, held Wednesday, October 25, brings together some of the nations foremost thought leaders in regards to cybersecurity policy and procedure. Learn more about this event at
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Remembering Richard Morley

10-20-2017
A special note from NCMS President Rick Jarman: It is with deep sadness that I am announcing that Dick Morley passed away Tuesday, October 17, 2018. Dick was affiliated with NCMS for many years as a member and leader on our Strategic Technology Board where I got to know and appreciate him. In the late 90’s he was elected Chairman of the NCMS Board and began the reinvention of NCMS that put us on the successful path we have taken. He was one of the country’s most brilliant
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Present your Point of Maintenance Aid to JTEG

10-19-2017
NCMS is seeking speakers to present October 31 at the October JTEG Technology Forum featuring Point of Maintenance Aids. JTEG Technology Forums are a venue for manufacturing leaders to share knowledge and discuss new advances and technology applications in their fields, especially as they apply to U.S. Armed Services maintenance needs. The forums give participants the opportunity to showcase their work and tout their accomplishments to an audience of industry peers and
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NCMS' Marc Sharp Speaks to Benefits of Propane for Fleet Vehicles

10-19-2017
In 81st LRS takes action to conserve energy, a recent article on DVIDS hub, NCMS Marc Sharp shares initial research comparing the benefits of propane and gasoline for fleet use. In addition to being length="500".50 cheaper per gallon than gasoline, Sharp explains more benefits of using propane. “Vehicle fleet managers integrating propane as the primary fuel for their fleets have seen significantly lower operating costs while experiencing improved maintenance efficiencies, fewer fuel-related
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7 Key Steps to Help You Achieve NIST 800-171 Compliance

10-12-2017
NCMS and Rob Cote, CEO of Security Vitals, offered for a free educational webinar discussing the implications of and steps toward compliance with the NIST cybersecurity guidelines. The presentation covers a 7-step process on how to achieve NIST 800-171 Compliance by the fDec. 31, 2017, deadline. Because NIST 800-171 demands specialized resources to implement, manage, and maintain, addressing NIST requirements can put a real strain on manufacturing organizations. With the added risk of lost
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DoD Manufacturing USA Institutes Features NCMS' Efforts With LIFT

10-02-2017
"DoD Manufacturing USA Institutes" recent issue highlights some of the work NCMS has collaborated on with the Lightweight Innovations for Tomorrow (LIFT) Department of Defense (DoD) Manufacturing USA institute. The Manufacturing USA institutes are tasked not only with facilitating the advancement of new technologies into the marketplace, but also with helping to ensure the pipeline of workers has the knowledge, skills, and abilities to use those technologies in the workplace. With
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TARDEC Releases 30-Year Strategy Value Stream Analysis

10-02-2017
NCMS Partner TARDEC, The United States Army Tank Automotive Research, Development, and Engineering Center, recently released their 30 Year Strategy document. This release highlights the Army's ground vehicle technology needs as TARDEC continues to develop, integrate, and sustain advanced manned and unmanned ground system capabilities for the current and future force. Read full release here: TARDEC 30-Year
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NCMS welcomes new Q3 members Benchmark Electronics, PTC, PwC, and UBT

09-29-2017
In the third quarter of 2017, four new members joined NCMS, adding their unique strengths and specializations to NCMS’ diverse member base. NCMS welcomes Benchmark Electronics, PTC, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Unified Business Technologies as they become part of the largest cross-industry, collaborative research and development consortium in North America. We look forward to supporting their groundbreaking work and engaging their capabilities and expertise. Benchmark Electronics Benchmark
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Eclypse Test Equipment Pins Down Elusive Wiring Faults

09-28-2017
NCMS Member Spotlight: Eclypse International Wire degradation produces costly and difficult-to-identify faults that can endanger operators, limit aircraft readiness, and lead to additional failures down the road. This month, NCMS is spotlighting one of its members whose products help the U.S. military and private industry isolate degraded wiring, drastically reduce the necessity of repair, and conduct aircraft maintenance in a fraction of the time it took using older methods: Eclypse
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Celebrate Manufacturing Day Friday, October 6th!

09-28-2017
Friday, October 6, 2017, is Manufacturing DaySM, a day designated to highlight the achievements of North American manufacturing and to celebrate the role of manufacturers in the economy and their communities. To mark the occasion, on October 6 and in the following weeks, universities, manufacturing companies, and industry associations are hosting events that range from school field trips to open houses to networking events and job fairs for STEM graduates. These events are prime opportunities
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Fostering the Industrial Internet to Accelerate Economic Growth and Transformation

09-15-2017
The global economy is undergoing a profound transformation as industry and society integrate the sophisticated information technology systems often referred to as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) into modern engineering, production processes, and economic activity. NCMS Rebecca Taylor recently spoke with industry and legislative leaders on this transition. Taylor remarks "Manufacturers are starting to see the value of the industrial internet – when operating technology meets
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Maintenance Innovation Challenge Deadline Extended to 9/28

09-14-2017
Over the past month, our country has seen numerous natural disasters from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma to numerous wildfires affecting the west from California to Washington. The impact of these disasters will be felt for years to come. Additionally, many of our corporate, government, and academic partners that make the MIC a successful competition from year to year were also greatly affected over this period. Due to this crisis, the deadline for the Maintenance Innovation Challenge (MIC)
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Sources Sought: Production of M109A6/A7 M284 Breech Firing Train Kit

09-14-2017
Self Propelled Howitzer (SPHS) is currently coordinating with ARDEC-Benet Labs and the Aniston Army Depot (ANAD) to design and procure an M109 Breech Firing Train Kit. These components were released as a Kit through an ECP approved in July 2017. The Watervliet Arsenal (WVA) is the legacy government source for all M109 Breech Mechanism Assemblies and sustainment parts. SPHS is currently in discussions with WVA to determine their capability for providing these kits. Through these discussions,
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CompositesWorld: Highlights from 2017 Dept. of Defense Advanced Composite Maintainers meeting

08-31-2017
From Composites World: Leaders from military and private industry present and discuss latest developments and future directions for composite structures design, maintenance, repair, and sustainability. The 2017 US Department of Defense (DoD) Advanced Composite Maintainers Technical Interchange Meeting (TIM) was held Aug 22-24 at the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences, Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The annual event focuses on the unique challenges of composite materials, repairs,
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2017 DoD Advanced Composite Maintainers TIM Recap

08-30-2017
Thank you to all presenters, attendees, and tabletop exhibitors at this year’s DoD Advanced Composite Maintainers Technical Interchange Meeting. This year’s event was hosted by the U.S. Army, was presented by NCMS, and took place at The Landing at Hill Air Force Base, UT. From the event kickoff to the event-closing working group discussion, this meeting was informative, productive, AND fun. The positive feedback for speakers, the energetic buzz for the industry tabletop reception, and the sold
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NCMS Member Automated Precision Inc. supports Fermilab's use of Radian Laser Trackers in the Alignment of their Particle Accelerator

08-16-2017
Fermilab uses Radian Laser Trackers in the Alignment of their Particle Accelerator Scientists at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) are working on research projects that aim to answer fundamental physics questions. How did the universe begin? What are dark matter and dark energy? What is the mass hierarchy of neutrinos? Are there other undiscovered particles beyond the currently known Standard Model of Particle Physics? To address these questions, Fermilab – the premier
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NTT: Cyber-attacks on manufacturers should be a "red flag" for CISOs

08-11-2017
NCMS' Rebecca Taylor is quoted in V3's NTT: Cyber-attacks on manufacturers should be a "red flag" for CISOs: Cyber-attacks rose 24 per cent QoQ worldwide in Q2'17, with manufacturers a ‘key target'. NTT Security's Q2 Threat Intelligence Report, which showed the findings, is based on events identified across the company's global client base during the second quarter of the year. 34 per cent of all attacks that NTT tracked affected manufacturers and these companies appear in the top three
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Present at These Coming JTEG Technology Forums

08-03-2017
NCMS is seeking speakers to present its August and September JTEG Technology Forum on (respectively) Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) and automated painting and laser and automated painting removal. JTEG Technology Forums are venue for manufacturing leaders to share knowledge and discuss new advances and technology applications in their fields, especially as they apply to U.S. Armed Services maintenance needs. The forums give participants the opportunity to showcase their work and tout their
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Speaking Opportunity: JTEG Technology Forum: Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI)

07-31-2017
Experts in Non-Destructive Inspection are encouraged to present their thoughts and experience on this topic on Tuesday, August 29th, 2017 (1:00pm – 3:00pm EDT) during the monthly Joint Technology Exchange Group (JTEG) virtual Monthly Technology Forum. This speaking opportunity will put you front and center with the DoD maintenance community and lasts approximately 15 – 20 minutes. Presenters only need a computer and telephone to participate in this forum. Interested parties should
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Education and Workforce Experts Provide Recommendations for Aligning College Curricula and Other Workforce Strategies with Advanced Manufacturing Needs

07-24-2017
Team of College & University Faculty Recommends Paths to Address Lightweighting Technology Competencies in Curricula and Workforce Strategies DETROIT – A new report from leading national higher education and workforce experts says colleges and universities should work with industry to modify their curricula to ensure students gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities they will need upon graduation for jobs that involve new lightweighting technologies, materials, and processes. The
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FBI, NCMS Partner on Cyber Security Private Industry Notification

07-18-2017
NCMS has partnered with the FBI to develop a Private Industry Notification (PIN) focused on current and future cyber security considerations for manufacturers especially those using smart manufacturing technologies. This notification is based on anticipatory analysis of emerging technology vulnerabilities and historical cyber intrusion activities. The PIN is available for limited release. For additional information and access, please contact NCMS Senior Vice
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Pendaran Offers Free Training to NCMS Members

06-25-2017
What if there was a way to transform your employees into problem solving innovators in just 5 days? What if there was a Flight Simulator for Problem Solving? There is. It's called Pendaran and it is currently being used by the United States military. Now, it's available to you and your organization. Create the unstoppable team you deserve. Pendaran, A Transformative Experience NCMS member, Pendaran Inc., is offering each NCMS member organization the opportunity to send 3 participants to
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Reverse Engineering, 3D Scanning, or Prototyping Speaking Opportunity

06-22-2017
Experts in Reverse engineering, 3D scanning, or prototyping are encouraged to present this coming Tuesday, June 27th, 2017 during the monthly Joint Technology Exchange Group (JTEG) virtual Monthly Technology Forum. This speaking opportunity will put you front and center with the DoD maintenance community and last approximately 15 - 20 minutes. Presenters only need a computer and telephone to participate in this forum. Interested parties should contact Debbie Lilu Conference call in
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Call for Technology: Sustainment and Refurbishment of Demilitarized Warheads

06-21-2017
The US Navy is pursuing an advanced lightweight torpedo capable of prosecuting and defeating challenging adversary submarine targets. To successfully meet this need, a warhead capable of addressing this challenge is required. Inadequate solutions to engage the emerging threats could lead to catastrophic results in the fight for at-sea superiority. A solution to this problem potentially exists within our Navy. The MK 122 Mod 0 warhead, the explosive component of the MK 50 Lightweight Torpedo,
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Call for Technology: Electronics Obsolescence and Requirements Sustainability for the Electronics Sub System

06-21-2017
Due to obsolescence and the inability to procure the required electronics, the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) is looking for a replacement to the Electronics Sub System (ESS) of the Fleet Exercise Section (FES) found in torpedoes. Obsolescence issues exist in the electronics section of the FES, causing significant impact in maintenance, supportability, and the time to identify and isolate failures. Complicating this issue is the lack of adequate card-level test set capabilities to assist
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Navitas Systems Announces First UL Recognized StarlifterTM Lithium Batteries for Both the Heavy Duty Class 1 and 2 Lift Truck Markets

06-21-2017
Navitas Systems LLC (www.navitassys.com), a leading provider of heavy-duty lithium energy storage products for commercial, industrial and government/military customers, announced today that it has achieved the UL Recognition for its complete line-up of Starlifter 24 Volt, 36 Volt, and 48 Volt lithium forklift batteries for the Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 Lift Truck categories. This marks the first time that UL has concurrently tested and certified heavy duty Class 1 and Class 2 lithium
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F/A-18 GCU Fault Detection System Paying Off for FRCSW

06-21-2017
From Navair News: http://www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.NAVAIRNewsStory&id=6561 A Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW) investment one year ago is paying dividends in the command’s efforts to provide dependable, mission-ready components to the fleet. The Intermittent Fault Detection and Isolation System (IFDIS), purchased by FRCSW to troubleshoot the F/A-18 Hornet airframe’s Generator Converter Unit (GCU) chassis, recently resolved an issue with a GCU that had
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Warner Robins AFB Technology Insertion Manager, Frank Zahiri Receives Prestigious Award

06-21-2017
Frank Zahiri was selected as a winner of the Small Business Technology Council’s (SBTC) 2017 Champion of Small Business Technology Commercialization Award. Earlier this year, SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) companies were asked around the country to nominate PMs, PEOs, COs, and other government workers who, in their determination, went above and beyond their responsibilities in helping their company develop and receive commercialization and follow-on funding for their technology.
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NCMS Seeks Support for Sensors, Communications, and Electronics Consortium

06-05-2017
NCMS is seeking letters of support for a new consortium. On behalf of the US Army – Aberdeen Proving Ground, NCMS is responding to a solicitation request for a proposal to organize and operate a consortium of sensors, communications, and electronics technology providers to be governed by a Prototype Other Transaction Agreement (pOTA). The technical areas to be addressed in the pOTA include: Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Cyberspace Operations Electronic
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NCMS Member Anglicotech supports US Marine Corps through CTMA

05-25-2017
Anglicotech, LLC is a Veteran-Owned Small Business that specializes in Logistics Information Technology, Cyber Security, Technical Training, and Sensor Technology. Anglicotech (AT) is part of an impressive partner network of Fortune 500 companies and small niche companies allowing for high quality, innovative, and tailored solutions. Anglicotech is a global company and has extensive experience in delivering responsive solutions to complex problems in the harshest of environments. Our team
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NCMS sponsors DoD Workshop Tracks at RAPID + TCT

05-25-2017
NCMS attended the 2017 RAPID + TCT event two weeks ago in Pittsburgh, PA. Over 5,000 attendees and 350 exhibitors networked and shared their technical knowledge and subject matter expertise. Mike McManus from AutoDesk kicked off the event; Phillipe Cochet-GE, Ric Fulop - Desktop Metal, and Terry Wohlers were keynotes; and Dr. Ramille Shah was a riveting keynote for the Medical Manufacturing Innovations Series. We attended in support of our AMMO and RARE teams, as well as our DoD, Army, Navy,
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Business Model Wargame II Recap

05-25-2017
In partnership with the Additive Manufacturing for Maintenance Activities (AMMO) Working Group and the America Makes Maintenance and Sustainment Advisory Group, the Business Model Wargame II was successfully held on 16 – 17 May at the Lockheed Martin Global Vision Center in Crystal City, VA. Over 100 people attended the event, which included individuals from academia, industry, government, and non-profit organizations. The event was well received by all and deemed a success by the event
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NCMS, BMW, UD-CCM Join Forces on Computing, Performance, Composite Material Study

05-24-2017
Drivers could be the big winners in this new study released by NCMS, BMW, and the University of Delaware-Center for Composite Materials (UD-CCM). The team has completed research proving the accuracy of high-speed computing for modeling and simulation to predict the quality and effectiveness of a material that is both lightweight and safety-tested. This effort has demonstrated design, materials, manufacturing, and joining methods for continuous carbon fiber thermoplastics to meet automotive,
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SurClean Featured in Forbes

04-28-2017
NCMS Member SurClean has a growing enterprise based on their mission to provide off-the-shelf laser surface preparation equipment. Following a firm foothold in the private sector, SurClean is developing more relationships with the DoD, specifically Air Force personnel, who have been heavily involved in laser de-paint applications. The SurClean product, focused on the laser beam delivery system, which is the workhorse of any laser system, has been found to correct deficiencies noted in the
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Sources Sought: Engine Life Management Assistance

04-27-2017
On behalf of the USAF Propulsion Enterprise, NCMS is seeking sources with capabilities in the domain of life management program for engine fracture critical components to ensure engine flight safety. Life Management is a comprehensive and continuous effort using analytical modeling and empirical data to determine fatigue life limitations/fracture points of critical safety items under applicable mission use. Typically this effort is provided by the engine OEM via the Component Improvement
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Boeing Executive Dr. Leo Christodoulou Joins NCMS 2017 Board of Directors

04-27-2017
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), the nation’s leader in collaborative technology development is pleased to announce the election of Dr. Leo Christodoulou, Boeing’s Enterprise Technology Strategy Leader, to the NCMS Board of Directors. Both NCMS and The Boeing Company are deeply committed to building a strong manufacturing infrastructure that is highly competitive, innovates and applies advanced technologies, and creates maximum value for all. As part of his formal role,
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Hexagon joins NCMS member base

04-21-2017
While specific industries have their own unique challenges and motivations, productivity is central to manufacturing success across the board. Manufacturers must find the right balance of speed, efficiency, cost and quality for their product and ensure they remain productive at those levels. Sometimes there might be a payoff between factors – in the case of a luxury item where top quality is expected, you might choose to work more slowly and therefore push the cost up. For a cheaper mass-market
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Call for Technology: Spin Pit Testing of Jet Engine Fan Disk in TF33

04-20-2017
An NCMS partner is looking for product solutions to fulfill a specific need. This Call for Technology process allows industry, academia, and other organizations the opportunity to meet the requested need. If your organization has a capability or product that can fill the requested call for technology, please complete the following form and thoroughly explain your proposed solution. All submissions will be reviewed and compiled for the NCMS team. Primary contacts will be notified of the
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Call for Technology: On-Wing Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) of Jet Engine Fan Disk

Sources Sought: Reverse Engineering for Air Force Components

04-20-2017
On behalf of the Department of the Air Force/Air Force Materiel Command, NCMS is seeking sources with capabilities in the domain reverse engineering and reproduction of Air Force Components. Various components of the KC-135, F107, and T-38 family of aircraft are in need or upgrade or replacement. The Department of the Air Force/Air Force Materiel Command has requested information on companies capable of reverse engineering such components and providing Complete Technical Data Package and
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Congratulations to Thermal Wave Imaging; Winners of the 2017 CTMA Technology Competition

04-20-2017
Thermal Wave Imaging Wins 2017 CTMA Technology Competition The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Maintenance Policy and Programs (MPP) are pleased to announce Thermal Wave Imaging, Inc. (TWI) as the winner of the 2017 Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Competition. TWI’s winning submission, the Large-Standoff Large-Area Thermography (LASLAT) system, submitted by Project Engineer Maria Beemer and TWI
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Relive Michigan Robotics Day Now

04-19-2017
Thank you for attending the 2017 Michigan Robotics Day the nation’s premier event celebrating National Robotics Week co-hosted by the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) and the University of Michigan College of Engineering. Welcoming Remarks - Rebecca Taylor Senior Vice President, National Center for Manufacturing Sciences Michigan Robotics Day Introduction – Governor Rick Snyder Congressional Greeting – The Honorable Debbie Dingell, US House of
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SurClean Joins NCMS Membership Base

04-13-2017
SurClean is an advanced technology manufacturer located in Wixom, Michigan. SurClean focuses on leveraging laser ablation processes to remove surface coatings, debris and oxides in the most precise, safe, energy efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly way available today. SurClean competes with traditional methods of chemical, abrasive and blasting. SurClean’s proprietary laser beam delivery systems and patented sensor system are integrated with OEM laser sources. This laser
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Robotics, Autonomy, and Drones- OH MY! 2017 Michigan Robotics Day

04-10-2017
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), the nation’s leader in collaborative technology, is hosting the seventh annual Michigan Robotics Day tomorrow, April 11, at the North Campus Research Complex in Ann Arbor, with the University of Michigan (U-M) School of Engineering. Ford Motor Company is the exclusive sponsor of this event, which has grown into the nation’s premier event celebrating National Robotics Week. National Robotics Week was launched by the U.S. Congress to
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Thank you for attending the 2017 CTMA Annual Partners and Integrated Project Meeting

04-07-2017
Thank You to all attendees, tabletop exhibitors, and technology competitors at this week’s CTMA Annual Partners and Integrated Project Meeting From the sold out tours on Monday, through keynotes, panels, presentation and networking receptions to the final announcement of the 2017 CTMA Tech Competition winner – it was informative, productive AND fun. Congratulations to Thermal Wave Imaging for surviving the Shark Tank and winning the Tech Competition! All materials presented at the event will
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NCMS releases the "Balancing Productivity and Security: The New Cybersecurity Challenge for Manufacturers" white paper

04-04-2017
NCMS, SVP Rebecca Taylor, release Cyber Security White Paper Provides Cyber Security Awareness and Prevention Focus for Manufacturers Ann Arbor, MI – April 4, 2017 - The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) sees cyber security awareness and prevention in manufacturing as an emerging challenge and competitiveness issues that manufacturers are facing. In response, NCMS has released a new whitepaper, written by Senior Vice President Rebecca Taylor, “Balancing Productivity and
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Sources Sought for Military Grade Brackets

04-03-2017
On behalf of a DoD Sustainment customer, NCMS is seeking sources with capabilities in the domain of the design and manufacture of military grade aluminum brackets and supports. The family of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles is undergoing RESET refurbishment and upgrading, and replacement brackets and supports are a major requirement. NCMS plans to determine qualified suppliers from which it can solicit products as need arises. The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences
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MARRS Provides Cost Savings, Improved Readiness for Army NG and Reserves

03-30-2017
Over the past few decades, business globalization has imposed significant changes in the way companies plan and execute major events. Synchronization of resources often requires access to information housed in multiple database systems. Typically, legacy software systems required layered software approaches not designed around an open architecture capability. These systems were costly and time consuming to build, maintain, and upgrade. They lacked the ability to interact effectively across
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Müller-BBM VibroAkustik Systeme Features Innovative PAK System Platform

03-30-2017
Müller-BBM VibroAkustik Systeme is part of the Müller-BBM group, an engineering company based near Munich, Germany, founded more than 50 years ago. The Müller-BBM group is an international company providing consulting services and sophisticated technical products, systems, and software at the highest level. Passionate about innovation and technology leadership, Müller-BBM VibroAkustik Systeme is continuously striving for excellence in acoustics and vibration. Our tight partnership with
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Announcing the New National Surface Technology Environmental Resource Center Just Launched

03-28-2017
March 28, 2017 - The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), the National Association for Surface Finishing (NASF), and the AESF Foundation announce the launch of the Surface Technology Environmental Resource Center (STERC), previously known as the National Metal Finishing Resource Center (NMFRC). STERC is the result of a new partnership among these organizations and continued grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and provides a wealth of useful environmental
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NCMS Welcomes New Member GasTOPS

03-24-2017
GasTOPS Inc. (GTI) is a US majority owned small business headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in application of advanced products and services for machinery condition assessment and Condition Based Maintenance to improve operational effectiveness. GTI is partnered with GasTOPS LTD developer of innovative fluid sensing and analysis systems utilized on and in support of Pratt and Whitney (P&W) F119, F135 and Geared Turbo Fan (GTF) engines. Utilizing an established expertise of
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NCMS Opportunity: Power and Signal Cable Reverse Engineering and Development of Improved Maintenance and Reduce PM MRAP Material Shortages

03-01-2017
Deteriorating and aging cables that need replacing are a growing concern, but simply amassing and storing varieties of cables – which might not even fulfill the specific requirements – does not solve the problem. Instead, reverse engineering specific cables provides a faster, better solution to building just what is needed for a specific project. The MRAP Product Manager (PM) is conducting a RESET and standardization of their vehicle fleet. Many items provided to the Army during initial
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Automated Precision Inc. – Pioneering Advanced Dimensional Metrology Solutions

02-23-2017
Automated Precision Inc. is a global company providing advanced dimensional metrology solutions for industry. Founded by Dr. Kam Lau in 1987, API has pioneered progressively higher standards of accuracy through its 30 years of operation by commercializing innovative hardware and software that offer advanced digital information to its customers. API supplies a comprehensive range of manual and automated dimensional inspection and 3D scanning products and software. Products include but not
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Getting to know Ridgetop Group, Inc.

02-23-2017
Founded in 2000, Ridgetop Group, Inc. was established to develop advanced tools, IP libraries, and design services for mission-critical applications operating in harsh environments. Achieving functionality and reliability under adverse conditions — whether the stresses stem from extreme temperatures or intense radiation exposure — requires “best of class” solutions. These solutions may involve “radiation hardening” or shielding for microelectronics, and/or “prognostic-enabling” critical
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LIFT, APLU, and NCMS Create Expert Educator Team to Align Higher Education Curricula with Manufacturing Workforce Needs

02-23-2017
The initiative will engage educators and manufacturing scientists to ensure instruction aligns to industry needs for a skilled workforce. Lightweight Innovations For Tomorrow (LIFT), APLU, and the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) named six educators to its Expert Educator Team (EET). The EET will collaborate with LIFT to identify how colleges and universities can modify their curricula and related industry certifications to meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities workers
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Funding Available for Environmental Technology Demonstrations

02-20-2017
ALEXANDRIA, VA, January 5, 2017—The Department of Defense (DoD), through the Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP), supports the demonstration of technologies that address priority DoD environmental requirements. The goal of ESTCP is to promote the transfer of innovative technologies through demonstrations that collect the data needed for regulatory and DoD end-user acceptance. Projects conduct formal demonstrations at DoD facilities and sites in operational settings
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Sources Sought for Military Grade Cables Directory

02-15-2017
On behalf of a DoD Sustainment customer, NCMS is seeking sources with capabilities in the domain of the design and manufacture of military grade cables. The family of Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles is undergoing RESET refurbishment and upgrading, and replacement cables are a major requirement. NCMS plans to develop a database of qualified suppliers from which it can solicit products as need arises. Please complete the following form to be considered for the directory. If
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NCMS, MMA Present 2017 MFG Forum

02-02-2017
Please see details on the event
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Troika Solutions plans for EFAC program deployment across the Department of Defense

01-20-2017
Troika Solutions is conducting a study to recommend a deployment plan for the Expeditionary Fluid Analysis Capability (EFAC) program across the Department of Defense ground vehicle fleet. This study is the result of another positive NCMS sponsored project for the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD). EFAC was designed to be a low cost, effective, deployable oil analysis device that helps maintain equipment availability and readiness while saving money and time for ground vehicle fleet
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Submission Opportunity: SOCOM Seeks Automotive Power Train Market Insights

01-12-2017
USSOCOM is seeking submissions via a Request for Information (RFI) concerning hybrid, fuel cell, and electric powertrain systems for a four (4) passenger Light Tactical All-Terrain Vehicle (LTATV), with a Vehicle Curb Weight (VCW) less than 2,500 lbs. The purpose of this RFI is to determine the types, suitability, and maturity of hybrid, fuel cell, and electric power trains available in the LTATV market place. Respondents should respond to all parts of this RFI. Respondents shall provide
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Industry Comments Requested by GAO

01-06-2017
US Government Accountability Office's Readiness Assessment Guide has been made publicly available for comment: GAO TECHNOLOGY READINESS ASSESSMENT GUIDE: Best Practices for Evaluating the Readiness of Technology for Use in Acquisition Programs and Projects--Exposure Draft From August 11, 2016 - August 10, 2017, GAO is seeking input and feedback on this Exposure Draft from all interested parties. Please click on this link https://tell.gao.gov/traguide to provide us with comments on
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RIT named to lead new Manufacturing USA Institute on clean energy

01-06-2017
NCMS congratulates the Rochester Institute of Technology’s Golisano Institute for Sustainability (GIS) which was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy, as part of its Manufacturing USA initiative, to lead its new Reducing Embodied-Energy and Decreasing Emissions (REMADE) Institute—a national coalition of leading universities and companies that will forge new clean energy initiatives deemed critical in keeping U.S. manufacturing competitive. NCMS is proud to be one of 85 partners and will
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Wishing our NCMS Members, Partners, and Friends a very Healthy, Happy and Prosperous New Year!

01-03-2017
A message from Rick Jarman, NCMS President: Thank all of you for making 2016 a very successful and exciting year. NCMS takes pride in leading cross-industry collaboration that creates technology innovation which forms the foundation of all our manufacturing programs. We look forward to working together to achieve even greater gains in these areas in the new year! In 2016, the Commercial Technology for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) Program managed by NCMS continued its significant growth
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One Network - Air Force, NCMS and Industry Collaborate on Next Generation Expeditionary Logistics Systems

12-16-2016
Air Force, NCMS and Industry Collaborate on Next Generation Expeditionary Logistics Systems This December's Air Force Combat Ammunitions Center (AFCOMAC) training program at Beale Air Force Base, Sacramento, CA, is hosting a major National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) Program Event to prove out expeditionary logistics systems deployed under a unique partnership between the United States Air Force (USAF) and Industry. This is part of a 9-month Risk Reduction program sponsored by
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J Chadwick Co Optical Micrometer replaces "Fingernail Test" used by Army

12-16-2016
J Chadwick Co’s Optical Micrometer is a portable inspection microscope for measuring the depth of scratches, corrosion pits, and flaws on critical components. Defect classification is a vital aspect of maintenance and NDT simply because repair-or-replace decisions have a profound effect on cost and safety. When surface damage is found, maintainers must determine if a component is within tolerance or must be replaced. The Optical Micrometer outperforms legacy methods including the pit gage and
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NCMS Member Navitas Systems Announces Award to Deploy StarlifterTM Lithium Forklift Batteries at Major Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Location

12-16-2016
Press Release: Navitas Systems Announces Award to Deploy StarlifterTM Lithium Forklift Batteries at Major Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Location Contract with National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) Enables DLA’s Largest Worldwide Site to Assess Performance Versus Lead Acid Forklift Batteries in Demanding Material-Handling Environment Woodridge, IL –December 5, 2016 – Navitas Systems LLC (www.navitassys.com), a leading provider of energy-enabled system solutions, energy
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NCMS Members have strong showing at 2016 DoD Maintenance Symposium

12-16-2016
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) had an exhibit booth in support of the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) program at the 2016 Department of Defense (DOD) Maintenance Symposium and Exhibition in Albuquerque, NM. In the booth, along with NCMS were six CTMA partners; Automated Precision Inc., Honeywell, One Network, Syntech, Navitas Systems, and Thermal Wave Imaging Inc. For bios about these NCMS member companies, abstracts are available below. Through
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NAVAIR/Thermal Wave Imaging, Inc. Win 2016 Maintenance Innovation Challenge

12-16-2016
We would like to publically thank each of the 2016 MIC finalists for your outstanding performance during the entire MIC process. From participating in the coordination meetings, to providing professional briefing materials to quality and time standards, presenting to a packed house of roughly 400 maintainers, and representing not only your technology, but our community in the MIC booth in the exhibition hall. We also want to congratulate our 2016 MIC award winners: The winner of the 2016
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NCMS Speaks on Cybersecurity Panel at DMC

11-29-2016
On November 29th, 2016, NCMS' SVP Rebecca Taylor will be joining the DMC panel discussion titled: Advanced Manufacturing Enterprise - Cybersecurity for Advanced Manufacturing. The DMC, being held in Denver, CO, is where top government and industry leaders and manufacturing subject matter experts get together to communicate and collaborate on policies, strategic direction, best practices, funding opportunities, and the latest innovations in support of defense manufacturing
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NCMS Technology Showcase Recap

11-15-2016
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), in partnership with the Department of Defense (DoD), sponsored a technology showcase at the Letterkenny Army Depot (LEAD). The showcase took place on November 2nd and 3rd with Depot tours on the afternoon of November 2nd and showcase and demonstrations on the 3rd held in buildings 370 and 350. The LEAD Command Briefing and NCMS/CTMA program briefings are available for download here. Industry participants showcased their innovative
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SME Installs 2017 Officers of its Board of Directors including NCMS' Taylor

11-14-2016
SME Installs 2017 Officers of its Board of Directors, Elects 10 to College of Fellows Board of Directors will take office in January 2017 SME has recognized several professionals who will assume new leadership roles in the organization for 2017. These manufacturing professionals were recognized at the annual SME banquet on Nov. 12. Officers of SME are chosen by a nominating committee and selected by the SME Board of Directors. These directors are elected annually by the entire voting
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NCMS Welcomes Ridgetop Group

11-11-2016
New NCMS member, Ridgetop Group, has found immediate benefits to their partnership through exposure at two recent NCMS Technology Showcases. Ridgetop Group has a strong background in developing and delivering innovative, electronic and electromechanical systems. Ridgetop offers a unique portfolio combination of integrated circuit IP, including sensors, software, engineering services, and products. For more than 16 years, Ridgetop has been providing complex on demand design
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Panther Global Technologies brings innovative production manufacturing to NCMS network

11-11-2016
Welcome new NCMS member Panther Global Technology. Panther began in 1985 as Panther Machine, Inc., a small company specializing in the machining of powder metal components, primarily for the automotive industry. The company quickly earned a reputation for precision-made products, superb quality and reliable delivery. Today Panther GLobal Technology focuses on innovative production manufacturing of metal components and assemblies. Panther finds success by partnering with customers to
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Thermal Wave Imaging Joins NCMS

11-11-2016
NCMS welcomes Thermal Wave Imaging to our membership network. Thermal Wave Imaging (TWI), established in 1992, is well-known as the leader in the development and manufacture of thermographic Non-Destructive Test and Quality Assurance solutions for the aerospace, power generation and automotive industries. TWI has played a key role in transitioning thermography from the laboratory to the “real world”, developing and implementing numerous advances that have become industry standards. Thermal
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Manufacturing Day 2016

10-06-2016
MFG DAY addresses common misperceptions about manufacturing by giving manufacturers an opportunity to open their doors and show, in a coordinated effort, what manufacturing is — and what it isn’t. By working together during and after MFG DAY, manufacturers will begin to address the skilled labor shortage they face, connect with future generations, take charge of the public image of manufacturing, and ensure the ongoing prosperity of the whole industry. Supported by a group of
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Welcome to the new NCMS.org

10-03-2016
Inventing, developing, commercializing and transitioning new technology is not simple, cheap or quick. At NCMS, we are committed to helping our member companies and partners be successful by creating an environment of collaboration where this can happen more efficiently with less risk and less cost. WELCOME TO THE NEW NCMS WEBSITE One way we support collaboration is by making information available and easy to find. We’ve gathered together NCMS relevant content and resources that
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Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) Society Annual Meeting

10-03-2016
CTMA will be sponsoring a CBM+ panel at the upcoming Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) Society Annual Meeting in Denver, CO, October 2-8, 2016. The NCMS panel will include representatives from industry, academia & government with a focus on CBM+. PHM leaders attended the recent CTMA Partners Meeting and found the topic and the best practices shared to be relevant to their industry. The following individuals will be presenting or speaking at the conference: Luminary
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NCMS Featured In Noise Reduction Report

07-18-2016
NCMS' Senior Vice President, Rebecca Taylor, is twice featured in Reducing Employee Noise Exposure in Manufacturing Best Practices, Innovative Techniques, and the Workplace of the Future, a workshop based report hosted by The National Academy of Engineering in Washington, D.C. The first report, 5.7 The FRITA14 Project: Reducing Noise and Improving Safety describes an innovative method for removing rivets from airplanes using an electro-discharge machining method. The project is called FRITA
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Announcing New NCMS Partnership to Enhance the National Metal Finishing Resource Center

06-16-2016
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), the nation’s leader in collaborative technology development, is pleased announce it has entered into a new partnership with the National Association of Surface Finishing (NASF) to enhance the National Metal Finishing Resource Center (NMFRC). The new partnership will allow the NMFRC, a long standing on-line resource for environmental compliance assistance for metal finishers, to grow and provide new features and content. The new relationship
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CTMA Project Announcement: Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) for Aircraft Sustainment

12-07-2015
Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) for Aircraft Sustainment and Support to Develop a Function Teamcenter 3D Configuration Manufacturing Environment at the Fleet Readiness Center (FRC) East Cherry Point – Phase IV Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) – Configuration Management of the F/A 18 Teamcenter/NX 3D Software Aircraft and Component 3D Models atFleet Readiness Center Southwest San Diego – Phase IV Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) for Aircraft Sustainment with Teamcenter 3D at Fleet
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Robotics Technology Consortium Announces First Research Projects

06-18-2009
The Robotics Technology Consortium, Inc. (RTC) today announced the winners of its first seven projects. These teams will undertake the research to develop innovative technologies that will add capabilities to the currently deployed unmanned ground vehicles and will enable future unmanned ground systems.
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