Automation Alley, a technology business association based in Troy, today opened a product lifecycle management center at Oakland University in Rochester Hills as a way to grow the talent pipeline for Michigan’s small to medium-sized manufacturers.
The new facility — equipped with computer-aided design, digital factory simulation, and 3-D printing — will provide training and certification in the process of managing a product from conception and design, through manufacture, to sales and service.
The center — located inside OU INC, a business accelerator on the university’s campus — will pair job seekers and students trained in product lifecycle management with local manufacturing companies interested in hiring interns and employees. The facility will also offer a consulting and technical services program to help companies move from traditional design and manufacturing methods to the latest in digital processes.
The opening comes on the heels of Automation Alley’s announcement of a yearlong series that will allow member organizations to gain exclusive access to local leaders. “Trending Topics with Local Leaders” will kick off with Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel on March 10 at the Automation Alley headquarters in Troy.
“It’s important for local business leaders to engage our political leaders and this event series provides the perfect opportunity for our member companies to do just that,” says Ken Rogers, the association’s executive director. “Each year, Automation Alley committees organize impactful events with the needs of southeast Michigan’s technology and manufacturing businesses in mind, adding additional value to their membership.”
To register for the event, visit automationalley.com.
