The Ohio Senate has passed a resolution that urges the U.S. Department of Defense to establish the “American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute.” The House adopted the resolution October 16.
House Concurrent Resolution 33 is a response to the Department of Defense wanting to establish an institute for “lightweight and modern metals manufacturing innovation.” Over five years, the department will provide $70 million in federal funding, including $70 million in cost matching, to the winning proposal.
Columbus-based Edison Welding Institute (EWI), which develops and applies manufacturing technology innovation, has teamed with The Ohio State University and the University of Michigan to submit a proposal to form the American Lightweight Materials Manufacturing Innovation Institute (ALMMII). Together, the three represent one of only three teams nationally to submit a proposal.
“The dollars infused into Ohio as a result of this Institute is a once in a generation opportunity,” said Rep. Mark Romanchuk. “And just like the defense infrastructure we have from years past, it will shape the future economic and industrial legacy in Ohio. I’m pleased that both chambers of the legislature have passed the resolution.”
The core of the proposal team includes EWI, The Ohio State University, and the University of Michigan as well as industry, research, workforce and economic development partners from Ohio and across the nation.