Empowering Small Manufacturers Through Innovation and Collaboration

In the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing, innovation and collaboration are keys to success. Small manufacturers, in particular, face unique challenges when it comes to making informed investments in advanced technologies. That's where Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) comes into play, showcasing a dedication to helping manufacturers become more innovative and competitive in the global marketplace.

A Different Approach to Innovation

At Missouri S&T's Kummer Institute Center for Advanced Manufacturing, the focus is not on pushing the latest technology; it is on understanding the manufacturer's specific needs. They believe that taking the time to learn about the manufacturer's goals and constraints is more crucial than simply advising on the latest and greatest investments. This approach sets the stage for meaningful collaborations, such as the one with John Clark, president and CEO of Masterclock.

Masterclock may be a small manufacturer with 25 employees, but they serve global businesses with high brand recognition. However, they faced a dilemma – the ever-changing landscape of digital printing technology was promising, but making a substantial investment without the necessary expertise was risky.

Dr. Richard Billo, the director of S&T's Center for Advanced Manufacturing, stepped in to help Masterclock. The collaboration provided real-time insights into the market, ensuring that Masterclock didn't miss out on the right investments. As Clark stated, "I no longer have that voice in the back of my head, wondering if I'm missing out on the right investment."

S&T's Commitment to Manufacturers

The collaboration with Masterclock exemplifies Missouri S&T's commitment to manufacturers across Missouri. But this commitment is about to become even more tangible with the groundbreaking of the Missouri Protoplex. This 116,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing research and development facility will serve as the core of a planned manufacturing technology and innovation campus. It will provide equipment accessible to manufacturers and students, creating a hub for collaboration between professional associations, colleges, universities, and tech schools across the state.

Navigating the Complex World of 3D Printing

The manufacturing industry is no stranger to the transformative impact of digital printing technology, particularly in the realm of 3D printing or additive manufacturing. However, for smaller manufacturers, the learning curve can be daunting. Addressing this challenge was at the heart of an engineering analysis conducted by experts at Missouri S&T on behalf of Masterclock, a manufacturer of precise timing systems equipment.

Dr. Richard Billo led the analysis, which highlighted a critical point: while 3D printing holds significant promise, it's essential to weigh the costs against potential savings. This analysis provided Masterclock with the knowledge they needed to make informed decisions. As Clark emphasized, "I got a world-class, real-time review of how what's on the market lines up with what we'd like to do at Masterclock."

A Bright Future for Small Manufacturers

Missouri S&T's efforts extend beyond collaboration; they're creating valuable resources for manufacturing businesses across the state. The Protoplex doesn't just offer a space for manufacturers to learn about new methods and technologies; it also addresses the skills shortage in the workforce. By taking a collaborative approach and understanding the true needs of manufacturers, Missouri S&T is positioning itself as a vital resource.

John Clark and Dr. Richard Billo's collaboration started with a meeting organized by the Partnership to Enhance Innovation, Resilience, and Agility in Missouri's Manufacturers. This partnership streamlines access to the expertise and resources of all four UM System universities, helping manufacturers address the challenges they face.

As we look towards the future, manufacturers like Masterclock are exploring ways to optimize their supply chain and manufacture their products more affordably. By embracing innovation, collaboration, and the expertise provided by institutions like Missouri S&T, they are taking the steps needed to navigate the challenges of the manufacturing industry and build a brighter, more competitive future.

This content was paid for and created by Missouri University of Science and Technology. The editorial staff at The Chronicle had no role in its preparation. Find out more about paid content.