LIFT, a Detroit-based manufacturing innovation institute, announced that Noel Mack will become its vice president of technology.
In this role, Mack will continue to reinforce the institute’s activities by connecting materials, processes, and systems in future manufacturing development and research. He will also implement new technology focus areas to ensure alignment with the Department of Defense’s priorities, direct large scope and complex projects and programs, lead involvement in technology projects, and serve as a mentor to LIFT’s technical and engineering staff.
“Noel brings an extensive background in engineering and manufacturing from the aerospace defense, and automotive sectors, including connecting the virtual and physical worlds, which is critical as we grow as the trusted advisor for future manufacturing,” says Hadrian Rori, chief technology officer at LIFT. “His expertise in hands-on engineering work from industry along with a high-level strategic mindset will be a tremendous benefit to the Department of Defense, LIFT staff, and its members.”
Before coming to LIFT, Mack had 35 years of experience in both engineering and design. He previously served as a product line executive of strategic technologies at American Axle and Manufacturing Inc. and as director and business unit lead of driveline and transmission systems at Ricardo’s Detroit technical center. He’s also held other leadership positions at Magna International Inc. and Magna Steyr.
Mack first began his career in the aerospace and defense industries at Denel Aviation. He served as the principal engineer, stress and design, and as manager of CAD and specialist CAE engineer for combat vehicles, tanks, and heavy and light armored vehicles at Denel Land Systems/Ermetek.
Mack holds six U.S. patents and is a graduate of the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with aeronautical specialization, and the University of Detroit Mercy, where he earned a master of engineering management degree and a graduate certificate in business turnaround management.
LIFT is a public-private partnership between the U.S. Department of Defense, industry, and academia that works to drive the development and deployment of advanced manufacturing technologies and implement talent development initiatives. It is operated by the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute.
