Advancements in Manufacturing Upskilling Program
Empowering the Next Generation of Manufacturing Professionals
At Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC), we understand the critical need to cultivate a workforce equipped with advanced manufacturing skills that meet the demands of today’s rapidly evolving industries. That’s why we’ve partnered with Mississippi State University (MSU) to launch the Advancements in Manufacturing Upskilling Program (AiM UP).
What is AiM UP?
AiM UP is a forward-thinking initiative designed to provide cutting-edge training in advanced and automated manufacturing technologies. Our goal is to create a pipeline of skilled workers who are not only familiar with but also proficient in operating the most sophisticated manufacturing equipment found in the nation’s leading facilities. By leveraging the expertise of MGCCC and MSU, along with guidance from an advisory board of industry experts, AiM UP offers a comprehensive approach to workforce development that is aligned with the current and future needs of the manufacturing sector.
Our Vision
Empowerment Through Education
We aim to equip current and future industry professionals with the hands-on skills and knowledge necessary to excel in advanced manufacturing environments.
Innovation in Training
By simulating real-world manufacturing conditions using state-of-the-art equipment, we prepare our trainees for the challenges they will face in today’s high-tech workplaces.
A Stronger Workforce for Mississippi
Through targeted training and educational programs, AiM UP will help ensure that Mississippi remains a leader in manufacturing, attracting new businesses and fostering economic growth in the region.
Lab Features
The lab features cutting-edge equipment, including robotic CNC machining, PLC controls, automated material handling, additive manufacturing, and more, to create a fully functional manufacturing line for training purposes.
Additive Manufacturing
The DMP Flex 100 is a compact metal 3D printer designed for small, high-precision parts. It uses Direct Metal Printing (DMP) technology to create dense, complex metal components with excellent surface finish and fine detail. The printer is ideal for applications in industries like aerospace, healthcare, and research, where the production of intricate, customized parts is crucial. With its high-performance capabilities, the DMP Flex 100 supports the production of functional prototypes and low-volume production runs, making it a versatile solution for advanced manufacturing needs.
The Nexa3D XiP Pro is a high-speed resin 3D printer designed for industrial applications. It is known for its fast print speeds, large build volume, and high-resolution output, making it ideal for producing detailed prototypes, functional parts, and end-use products. The printer uses LSPc (Lubricant Sublayer Photo-curing) technology, which enables rapid layer curing and contributes to its efficient and precise printing process.
The Sinterit Lisa X is a high-performance SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) 3D printer designed for producing durable, complex, and finely detailed parts. It is suitable for various applications, including prototyping, small-scale production, and research and development. The printer supports a wide range of materials, offering flexibility for different industries, such as automotive, medical, and consumer goods.
Autonomous Mobile Robots
The OTTO 100 is an autonomous mobile robot designed for material transport within industrial and commercial environments. It navigates autonomously, carrying loads between stations with precision and reliability, which reduces the need for manual labor and increases overall efficiency. Its intuitive interface and flexible design make it suitable for various applications, enhancing productivity by optimizing internal logistics and material handling processes.
The OTTO 1500 is a high-capacity autonomous mobile robot tailored for heavy material transport in large-scale industrial and warehouse settings. It can navigate autonomously through complex environments, carrying substantial loads with stability and precision. Its advanced navigation and obstacle avoidance systems improve efficiency in material handling, reduce manual labor, and support seamless integration into existing operations for optimized internal logistics.
Collaborative Robotics
The APT Connected Smart Manufacturing System integrates multiple automated processes to streamline production. It features MTEC for advanced material handling and processing, laser etch for precise marking and customization, and packaging and tray pack stations to efficiently package and organize finished products. This system enhances production efficiency, reduces manual intervention, and ensures consistent quality across the entire manufacturing workflow.
The CRX-5iA is a collaborative robot (cobot) designed by FANUC for material handling applications. It is known for its ease of use, flexibility, and safety features, which allow it to work alongside human operators without the need for safety fences. The robot is ideal for tasks such as pick-and-place, packaging, and palletizing, offering high precision and repeatability. Its lightweight, compact design makes it suitable for a wide range of industrial environments, enhancing productivity while maintaining a small footprint.
The CRX-10iA is a versatile collaborative robot designed by FANUC for welding applications. It is engineered to work alongside human operators safely, offering flexibility and ease of integration into existing production lines. With its precise control and compact design, the CRX-10iA enhances welding efficiency and accuracy, making it ideal for tasks that require consistent quality and reliability in various industrial settings.
Scanning
The Shining3D FreeScan Combo is a compact and portable handheld 3D scanner that combines blue laser and infrared VCSEL technologies, allowing it to achieve metrology-grade accuracy up to 20 microns. This scanner captures detailed 3D models of objects, which can then be used for tasks such as quality inspection, reverse engineering, and product design. Its accuracy and versatility make it ideal for ensuring that parts meet exact specifications or for creating detailed digital replicas of physical objects.
The Transcan C is a high-resolution 3D scanner designed by Shining 3D for capturing intricate details and textures of physical objects. Its purpose is to create highly accurate 3D models that can be used in various applications, such as digital archiving, product design, quality inspection, and reverse engineering.
Join Us in Building the Future of Manufacturing
AiM UP is more than just a training program—it’s a commitment to the future of Mississippi’s manufacturing industry. We invite students, professionals, and industry leaders to join us in this transformative journey. Together, we can build a workforce that is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Learn more about how AiM UP can help you advance your career and contribute to the growth of Mississippi’s manufacturing sector.