Pre-apprenticeship programs boost career readiness, increase skills
In early April the Department of Labor announced a $42.5 million grant opportunity for the Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Grant Program. The program is to support the development of new or expanding registered apprenticeship programs (RAPs) for youth, including quality pre-apprenticeship programs that lead to a RAP. The grant program supports the president’s executive order and the Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration’s goals to promote pre-apprenticeships, to develop a strong youth apprenticeship pipeline, and to expand access to youth apprenticeships. Such programs provide both a pipeline of educated workers for industries, as well as greater opportunities for youth exploring career options.
Metal X can now 3D print pure copper parts
The US manufacturer Markforged announced last week that it would be possible to 3D print pure copper parts on its Metal X machine – a metal additive manufacturing solution that is relatively more accessible than competing systems. This is interesting news for all users of metal 3D printing as copper remains a difficult material to print using a Laser Powder Bed Fusion process. The addition of copper to its range of materials, in filament form, should enable users of the Markforged solution to produce complex components with high electrical and thermal conductivity.
2020 National Defense Authorization Act
The National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2017 Senate Report “strongly encouraged” the DoD to more aggressively pursue AM capabilities to improve readiness and enable the Military Services to be more self‑sustainable.
DOD Research & Development
DOD invests roughly $70 billion annually in weapon system research and development, including prototyping—the development and testing of a model or weapon system design. When used effectively, prototyping reduces risk and improves the likelihood that weapon systems will be completed on time and within budget. It also keeps DOD’s technology pipeline stocked with innovative technologies that may provide a leap ahead in military capability. DOD has several new prototyping initiatives under way, but has not developed a comprehensive strategy for these efforts.