The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC), Automation Alley, and Bay College hosted the Making Michigan Innovation Expo on April 22, 2025, at Bay College’s Joseph Heirman University Center in Escanaba, Michigan, inviting Upper Peninsula manufacturers to explore Industry 4.0 technologies. The free event, held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET, attracted over 100 attendees, including small and mid-sized manufacturers, Delta-Schoolcraft ISD students, and regional leaders. Highlights included a keynote by Andrew Halonen of Amatrium on machine learning and generative AI, and a panel, “Cyber Risk Considerations for Manufacturers,” featuring Steve Mattson (GLSV), Curt Pennala (Karhu Cyber), Bob Scipione (MMTC), and Karl Linderoth (Bay College). Hands-on demos showcased AI, cybersecurity, robotics, and automation, with robots performing tasks like drawing Michigan’s outline and navigating obstacles. MMTC’s statewide roadshow, backed by a $3.05 million MEDC agreement, aims to help 6,200 Michigan manufacturers adopt digital transformation by 2025. Bay College’s Cindy Gallagher noted alignment with its strategic plan for industry partnerships. At the same time, MMTC’s Ingrid Tighe emphasized competitiveness for U.P.’s 2,500 manufacturers. Attendees received lunch and a chance to win a 3D printer.

For the precision machining industry, the Expo’s focus on Industry 4.0 drives demand for precision-machined components in smart manufacturing systems. Robotics and 3D printers showcased require high-accuracy parts, such as servo motor housings and print heads, crafted with 5-axis CNC milling and laser cutting to achieve sub-micron tolerances for seamless automation. Industry 4.0 integration demands precision fixtures and IoT-enabled tools, fabricated using EDM and real-time quality control to ensure reliability in connected factories. The event’s emphasis on AI and cybersecurity pushes machine shops to adopt digital twins and predictive analytics, fostering innovation in lightweight alloys and additive manufacturing. As part of a $50 billion advanced manufacturing market, the Expo creates opportunities for U.P. suppliers, where manufacturing employs 10,000 workers, strengthening supply chains and technical expertise in Michigan’s industrial heartland.

Source:

Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center Press Release, April 19, 2025

Source:

The Daily News

Social Media Buzz (powered by X):

X lit up with excitement for the Making Michigan Innovation Expo, with posts on May 4, 2025, calling it a “must-attend” for U.P. manufacturers. Users praised the robotics demos, with one noting “AI is transforming our factories,” while another highlighted “Bay College bridging skills gaps.” The buzz reflects optimism for digital transformation and regional job growth.

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