The National Science Foundation funded National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing is proud to announce the remarkable success of the NCNGM Summit 2025, which was held at the headquarters of FANUC America Corporation. This event was organized in collaboration with the National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC), bringing together groups of industry leaders, researchers, educators, and stakeholders dedicated to advancing the field of manufacturing and technician education.
The NCNGM Summit 2025 served as a vital platform for discussing the latest innovations and trends in next-generation manufacturing technologies. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions, share best practices, and explore collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing the manufacturing sector's competitiveness and sustainability. The summit featured keynote speeches from prominent figures in the industry, including Matt Kirchner, Drew Crowe, Karen Wosczyna Birch, Paul S. Lavoie, Paul Aiello, Anthony Nighswander, Michael Cook, Paul Lavoie, Suj Chandrasekhar, Ph.D, Ann Beheler, Dayonte Grimes, Tim Baber, Jerry Muller, Joe Baldiga and more. They addressed critical topics such as automation, robotics, additive manufacturing, bridging the workforce gaps, and the integration of artificial intelligence in production processes.
In addition to the keynote presentations, the summit included a series of interactive sessions that allowed participants to delve deeper into specific areas of manufacturing, including: Mechatronics & Connected Systems
Collaborative Robots
Welding & Additive Manufacturing
CNC Machining & Hybrid Tech
Smart Manufacturing, Data Monitoring, Virtual Reality & AI
These sessions facilitated knowledge exchange and networking opportunities, enabling attendees to forge valuable connections that could lead to future collaborations. The emphasis on hands-on learning and practical applications ensured that participants left with actionable insights that could be implemented in their own curricula.
The event also highlighted the importance of workforce development in the manufacturing sector. With an ever-evolving technological landscape, the need for a skilled workforce capable of navigating new tools and methodologies has never been more critical. Discussions centered around educational initiatives, training programs, and partnerships between academic institutions and industry leaders aimed at equipping the next generation of workers with the necessary skills to thrive in a high-tech manufacturing environment.
The partnership with FANUC America Corporation not only provided an excellent venue for the summit but also underscored the significance of collaboration between academia and industry. FANUC's commitment to innovation and excellence in automation and robotics made it an ideal host for this gathering of thought leaders and change-makers. As the NCNGM Summit 2025 concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer vision of the future of advanced manufacturing and technical education. The insights gained and connections made during the event are expected to drive forward the mission of the National Center for Next Generation Manufacturing, fostering an ecosystem that supports innovation, education, and the advancement of manufacturing practices across the nation. The success of this summit marks a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to shape the future of the manufacturing industry and ensure its continued growth and relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Relive and explore all the Summit had to offer via our Flickr albums! Day 1 Day 2
