Toyota Announces $8B Expansion at its North Carolina-Based EV Battery Plant
Toyota will invest an additional $8 billion in its first North American electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility, announced the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, adding another 3,000 jobs. The project, dubbed “Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina” (TBMNC) was first announced as a $1.29 billion investment in 2021, with expansions in 2022 and 2023. Now valued at $13.9 billion, the project will create more than 5,000 jobs and is expected to be completed in 2025.
“Through the last few years of building relationships, including my most recent trip to Tokyo and meeting with President Sato, our partnership with Toyota has become stronger than ever, culminating in this historic announcement,” said North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. “North Carolina’s transition to a clean energy economy is bringing better paying jobs that will support our families and communities for decades to come.”
Located on a 1,825-acre megasite in Liberty, North Carolina, Toyota will manufacture batteries for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) using 100% renewable energy. This facility is critical in the expansion of Toyota’s global electrification efforts as the company plans to roll out 30 BEV models globally by 2030.
“Today’s announcement is yet another validation of North Carolina’s national recognition as a hub for innovation and a top location for electric vehicle manufacturers and suppliers,” said Christopher Chung, CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. “Japanese investment has a significant impact in our state, with more than 28,000 North Carolinians going to work for Japanese companies every day. We value and appreciate the ongoing partnership our state has with Japan and the economic impact this partnership will continue to have.”
Policies like the Inflation Reduction Act have helped propel North Carolina to be one of the top four states in electric vehicle investment over the past year, bringing in more than $10 billion. In the last three years, the state has seen more than $11 billion invested in the electric vehicle industry, including a $2 billion investment from VinFast, a Vietnamese auto manufacturer that selected Chatham County in 2022 for the company’s first North American automotive assembly and battery manufacturing plant.
Aside from car companies, the state has also become a hub for electric vehicle component manufacturing, with investments totaling $760 million from Eplison Advanced Materials, Deere & Company and Kresiel Electric GMBH, and Kempower, Inc. announced in the last eight months. In 2022, Wolfspeed, one of the world’s largest producers of silicon carbide wafers used in electric vehicles to increase battery range, announced a $5 billion investment in its newest semiconductor manufacturing plant.
CNBC named North Carolina its Top State for Business in 2022 and 2023. Last year, North Carolina saw a record-breaking $19.3 billion invested in the state and nearly 29,000 new jobs announced, including 10,275 from 30 foreign direct investment projects worth a combined $5.21 billion.
For more information, visit edpnc.com or www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.
ASME Introduces Committee on Sustainability to Strengthen Climate Initiatives, Drive Global Impact
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) has announced the establishment of its Committee on Sustainability, comprising 11 experts from a variety of industry sectors, research disciplines and policy experience appointed by the ASME Board of Governors to help accelerate the Society’s response to climate change. The Committee is responsible for ensuring that ASME has a robust sustainability strategy informed by evidence and supported by qualified leadership.
“With support from this committee of experts, ASME’s climate strategy will drive climate impact through policy, technology and innovation, and workforce initiatives,” says ASME Executive Director/CEO Tom Costabile. “We are grateful for their collaboration. We share their passion for advancing humanity through engineering and the belief that there is more we can be doing to leverage our collective resources for climate action.”
The Committee’s role includes developing impact reporting and evaluation frameworks, collaborating with and empowering ASME sectors and volunteer leaders, providing insights and data driven recommendations on sustainability strategy to the ASME Board of Governors, and advocating and building relationships with external stakeholders to advance ASME’s climate strategy, “which will continue and elevate our work supporting society’s climate goals and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals– to which ASME has been committed since their inception,” says Costabile.
Leading the ASME Committee on Sustainability are chair Sean Bradshaw, senior fellow of sustainable propulsion at Pratt & Whitney and professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University, and vice chair Timo Marquez, sustainability marketing manager for Saint-Gobain.
Bradshaw is based in the U.S. with a primary focus on the development of advanced aircraft propulsion technologies that enable the industry to reduce its footprint. He is the immediate past chair of the Gas Turbine Association, a member of ASME Gas Turbine Technology Group, and an associate editor of the ASME Journal of Engineering for Gas Turbines and Power.
Based in France, Marquez’ career has evolved around defining, developing, and implementing sustainability initiatives for the built environment. He is past chair of the ASME Technology and Society Division and a current member of ASME’s Engineering for Change (E4C) Innovation Steering Committee.
ASME Committee on Sustainability members at large include:
- Asha Balakrishnan
Assistant Director, Science and Technology Policy Institute - Cristina Contreras Casado
Founder and Managing Director, Sinfranova, and Researcher and Instructor, Harvard University - Francesco D'Amore
Postdoctoral Researcher and Consultant, University of Southampton - Craig Hart
Executive Director, Pace University Energy and Climate Center - Bob Hauck
Chief Mechanical Engineer, GE Healthcare (retired) - Alain Lefevre
Sustainability Strategy Director, Schneider Electric - Ryan Macpherson
Climate Innovation and Investment Lead, Impact Investing Lead, Autodesk - Twish Mehta
Senior Director, Engineering and Enterprise Decarbonization, Loblaw Companies Limited - Deepa Poduval
Senior Vice President, Global Advisory Practice and Sustainability, Black & Veatch
For more information, visit https://www.asme.org/about-asme/climate-change and https://www.asme.org/about-asme/climate-change/committee-on-sustainability
America Makes Announces Winners of Delta Qual Project Call Totaling $3.2M
The National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM) and America Makes announced the winners of the Demonstration of Novel Methods for Effective AM Process Qualification/Re-Qualification – Delta Qualification directed project call worth $3.2M. The effort is funded by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).
Additive manufacturing (AM) offers the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and commercial manufacturing sectors groundbreaking opportunities with its ability to quickly produce lightweight designs. However, these benefits cannot yet be fully realized due to the time and cost associated with AM material and machine development and the generation of significant data through testing and analysis needed for qualification/re-qualification. Consequently, the agility of AM processes is hindered, making it challenging to respond to the technological advancements and shifts in the supply chain without first undergoing a costly and time-consuming re-qualification to ensure all rigorous standards for quality and safety continue to be met.
The chosen Delta Qual project teams will tackle these challenges by creating a qualified AM process that offers rapid and affordable flexibility in crucial processes, post-processing, and material feedstock variables, while efficiently validating a qualified AM material through statistical analysis.
“We are excited to announce and celebrate the winners of this project call,” stated Dr. Brandon Ribic, America Makes Technology Director. “Our membership and their collaborative partners consistently impress us with their ability to find dynamic solutions. These cutting-edge industry leaders, researchers, and developers are revolutionizing additive technology and propelling it forward as the future of manufacturing. We have full confidence in their ability to devise optimal solutions to overcome the qualification/re-qualification challenges that slow the expansion of this innovative industry.”
Below is the list of award winners and related topics/projects:
Topic 1: Major Delta Qualification Demonstration
Project 1: Applying Machining Learning to Enable Effective Additive Manufacturing Process Qualification/Re-Qualification
- Team Lead: Senvol
- Project Team: 3Degrees, AoZora Additive, ATI, Battelle, Boeing, Element Materials Technologies, National Institute of Aviation Research (NIAR), and Pilgrim Consulting
Project 2: Model Enabled Delta-Qual (MEDEL-QUAL)
- Team Lead: RTX (Raytheon)
- Project Team: Collins Aerospace Applied Research & Technology, Colorado School of Mines, Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, and Sentient Science Corporation
Project 3: Rapid Qualification Pathway for Metal Additive Manufacturing using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) for Critical Applications
- Team Lead: EOS
- Project Team: 3Degrees, AddiGuru, NSL Analytical, and The Ohio State University
Topic 2: Minor Delta Qualification
Project 1: Fatigue Allowable Curves and Effects of Texture and Thickness (FACETT)
- Team Lead: RTX Technology Research Center
- Project Team: Collins Aerospace Applied Research & Technology, Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, Sentient Science Corporation
Project 2: Demonstration of Novel Methods for Effective AM Process Qualification/Re-qualification
- Team Lead: Honeywell Aerospace
- Project Team: Macy Consulting, Inc.
- Topic 3: Red Team
- Project 1: Thorough Evaluation of AM with Rigorous Expertise and Data
- Team Lead: The Barnes Global Advisors
- Project Team: Blue Forge Alliance, Carnegie Mellon University, NASA, and SAE International
The projects are expected to be completed in September 2025 with data available to America Makes members. Additionally, project teams will report out at TRX and other industry events during the execution phase of the program.
For more information, visit https://www.americamakes.us/
Starrett Appoints New U.S. Territory Managers
The L.S. Starrett Company has recently appointed Mr. Coby Villegas and Mr. Christopher U’Glay as Territory Managers in the United States. Mr. Villegas will cover Southern Texas and Southern Louisianna, and Mr. U’Glay will cover New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, and Eastern Pennsylvania.
“We are very pleased to welcome Coby and Christopher to the company,” said Mr. Michael Connor, Sales and Marketing Director North America, Starrett Industrial Products. “Their respective backgrounds in sales, distribution and manufacturing will provide them each with a strong foundation to manage and support their territories.”
Mr. Villegas has over 20 years of manufacturing and project management experience, and has also spent ten years as a Civil Affairs Specialist in the United States Army. Prior to joining Starrett, he was with Grainger in a metalworking sales role managing Houston and surrounding areas. Mr. Villegas resides in Houston, Texas with his family.
Mr. U’Glay has 27 years of territory sales and sales management experience in commercial and industrial distribution, including the past ten years representing John Deere in Northern New Jersey. Mr. U’Glay resides in Pennsylvania with his family.
For more information, visit https://www.starrett.com/.
JPB Système Spreads its Wings in Poland with New Facility
JPB Système, the leading manufacturer of efficiency-enhancing technology solutions for aerospace, aeronautic and other industries, has announced a significant expansion in Poland with a new production site. The move signifies the company’s ongoing commitment to serving its global client base and achieving ambitious targets moving forward with an increased ramp-up.
The decision was made as a response to support ongoing company growth. Starting in an incubator, JPB Système has experienced a sizeable increase in the need for its manufacturing solutions, necessitating the development of a purpose-built facility to accommodate its operations. This new site will be a crucial asset in continuing to align the company’s Polish operations with its established presence in France.
Strategically located in the heart of the ‘Aviation Valley’, the new location is near Rzeszow Airport, and in close proximity to major aerospace suppliers and JPB Système partners, among them Pratt & Whitney and MTU Aero Engines. Spanning approximately 4,000m2, this state-of-the-art site will be equipped with advanced Industry 4.0 enabled production lines that embrace automatization and robotics. These lines will be deployed to manufacture both the company’s established self-locking devices, as well as more recently commercialized products like the blade locks or future military parts.
Damien Marc, president of JPB Système, says: “When our new Polish site opens next year, it will mark a significant milestone in the company's expansion journey. JPB Système is already a recognized supplier to major aircraft engine manufacturers such as Rolls Royce, Safran, GE and Pratt & Whitney and moving forward our goal is to diversify our customer base as well as to support them with their complex projects. A key objective for the facility will be to prioritize lowering production costs while maintaining our hallmark reputation manufacturing excellence and on-time delivery.”
In addition to enhancing operational capacity, JPB Système is focused on risk reduction, alleviating any potential supply chain and manufacturing issues. As well as production, the company aims to mirror its operations in terms of, HR, finance, and other departments between the Polish site and its new 10,000m2 site in France, which is also under construction.
Marc concludes: “This is a step-forward on our journey and we are immensely grateful for the dedication and hard work of JPB’s Polish team in bringing this project to life. This initiative will enable us to create bridges for sharing best practices and encouraging collaboration with our customers, not only as a supplier but as a partner. The facility will not only symbolize Industry 4.0 in Poland but also play a pivotal role in further expanding JPB Système’s strong presence on the international stage.”
For more information, visit https://jpb-systeme.com/.
Lehigh Valley Companies, Community Partners Launch Industrial Training and Education Consortium (iTEC)
A group of local manufacturers and community partners launched the Industrial Training and Education Consortium of the Lehigh Valley (iTEC). Announced at the Lehigh Valley Manufacturing Forum in Bethlehem, iTEC is a first-of-its-kind regional apprenticeship program established to provide industrial skills training and talent development to meet the needs of the Lehigh Valley’s growing manufacturing sector.
“The iTEC program is fully aligned with Governor Shapiro’s focus on expanding apprenticeship opportunities to support Pennsylvania’s innovation economy,” said Gwen Ross, Director of Workforce Development Initiatives at the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development. A featured speaker at the Manufacturing Forum, Ross added, “This is exactly the kind of public/private partnership we need to create more high-quality jobs with strong potential for upward mobility to drive economic growth in the Lehigh Valley and across the Commonwealth.”
As a Pennsylvania nonprofit corporation, iTEC partners with industry, education, government and community organizations across the Lehigh Valley to promote careers in advanced manufacturing. Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC) has been providing administrative support. Apprenticeship certifications, educational outreach and training for company mentors are managed by the German American Chamber of Commerce.
“The Lehigh Valley is home to more than 700 manufacturers making everything from medical devices to industrial equipment to food products and nearly everything in between,” said Don Cunningham, president and CEO of Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corp. (LVEDC). “Our manufacturing renaissance is driven by the skilled employees in the region. As we grow, it’s critical to continue that talent pipeline. The iTEC apprenticeship program is a terrific vehicle to continue the growth of skilled manufacturing in the Lehigh Valley and beyond.”
“iTEC was envisioned as a way for local manufacturers and their training partners to simplify alternate career pathways and create a pipeline of skilled, diverse talent for the future workforce,” said Morten Rasmussen, Corporate Vice President, Operations Human Resources at B. Braun Medical, and chair of the iTEC Management Council.
Other iTEC officers include Mark Tervalon, Chief Operating Officer at Lutron Electronics (vice chair), Thomas Kolbe, Senior Vice President Competence Center Cement at Heidelberg Materials (treasurer), and Ayesha Herrera, Director of Human Resources at OraSure Technologies (secretary). Other participating companies include Bracalente Manufacturing Group, Hospital Central Services Cooperative, Keurig Dr Pepper, Julabo USA, and Thread Bioscience.
“While learning or upgrading their skills, iTEC apprentices earn a salary on the job with the opportunity to earn a tuition-free college degree,” said Nancy Dischinat, Executive Director of Workforce Board Lehigh Valley. “This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking for a dynamic, rewarding career in advanced, diversified manufacturing.”
Funding for iTEC is provided by member companies and a $183,000 grant awarded to Workforce Board Lehigh Valley in late 2022 by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
iTEC is currently offering state-registered apprenticeship programs in Mechatronics and Industrial Manufacturing Technician career paths. Current training providers include Lehigh Carbon Community College and Northampton Community College. Additional programs and training providers will be available soon.
For more information, visit https://iteclehighvalley.org/.
The Manufacturing Institute Announces The Manitowoc Company as Sponsor of Heroes MAKE America Initiative
The Manufacturing Institute—the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers—has announced The Manitowoc Company, Inc. (“Manitowoc”) as a Bronze sponsor of its Heroes MAKE America initiative. The investment will support the growth and expansion of the Heroes initiative. Heroes MAKE America supports manufacturers and our nation’s military community by creating opportunities to connect through our Department of Defense SkillBridge training programs, virtual and regional events, and career visibility into the greater military community, resulting in increased recruitment and hiring opportunities among a diverse military workforce.
“Manufacturing has averaged 500,000 job openings per month over the past year, and every year, about 200,000 service members transition out with just the kind of skills and experience that would make perfect additions to nearly any shop floor,” said MI President and Executive Director Carolyn Lee. “Careers in modern manufacturing are as diverse as our nation’s military community and provide excellent opportunities to transition their military skills and experience in the civilian workforce. With today’s generous investment by Manitowoc, the MI’s Heroes MAKE America initiative will be able to grow and expand further to help broaden our reach. Manitowoc can engage directly with participants through Heroes Connect events, onsite and virtual career fairs, and career-readiness training. We appreciate Manitowoc for their commitment to this life-changing program and support of our nation’s veterans and their families.”
“Manitowoc is grateful to those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, and the Heroes MAKE America initiative is an excellent opportunity to give back and show our support in a tangible way,” said Manitowoc Executive Vice President of Human Resources James Cook. “Veterans bring the right attitude, technical aptitude and mastery of technology to excel in modern manufacturing careers. We look forward to showcase Manitowoc as a desirable employer to harness their talents in an exciting industry of lifting equipment that help build the communities of the future.”
At the center of the Heroes MAKE America initiative is a full-time, Department of Defense–approved SkillBridge initiative aimed at closing the manufacturing skills gap by training transitioning service members with in-demand qualifications and industry-specific certifications needed for today’s manufacturing workforce. Manufacturers highly value the core elements of military training that allow America’s soldiers to be the best in the world. The teamwork, commitment to mission, communication and critical thinking skills that are essential to mission success are also vital to manufacturing success. Heroes MAKE America has training locations at Fort Riley in Kansas, Fort Cavazos in Texas, Fort Liberty in North Carolina and Fort Stewart in Georgia, as well as a 100% virtual program that is open to transitioning service members and the broader military community throughout all service branches.
Since starting in January 2018, the program has graduated 1,152 participants and issued more than 5,800 industry-recognized certifications. The program has resulted in a 90% placement rate among graduates in more than 350 companies in 48 states, with average salaries of $73,602 and wages of $24 an hour.
In addition to Manitowoc, sponsors of Heroes MAKE America include Johnson & Johnson, The Caterpillar Foundation, Amazon, Howmet Aerospace, Saint-Gobain, Atlas Copco, Union Pacific, Niagara Bottling, WestRock, C.H. Guenther & Son, Honda Foundation, Cargill, FUCHS Lubricants Company, SEMI, Plastics Pipe Institute and NAFEM.
For more information, visit www.nam.org.