Advanced Manufacturing

The State of Advanced Manufacturing in Aurora, CO

The manufacturing field is an exciting one to work in because it continually evolves as new technologies and techniques are developed. In contrast to traditional manufacturing, advanced manufacturing refers to the application of cutting-edge technologies and innovative processes that can improve the productivity and efficiency of manufacturing while also reducing waste. Through robotics, automation, additive manufacturing, and other technologies, the field of advanced manufacturing in Aurora, CO, contributes to new product development and improved quality.

If you’re eager to pursue a future in advanced manufacturing, Pickens Technical College should be your top choice. Our career-focused and affordable Advanced Manufacturing training program teaches both manual machine and computer-oriented operations. Our graduates can go on to pursue careers as machinists in the advanced manufacturing field.

Key Trends in Advanced Manufacturing Technology & Techniques

Students who are interested in becoming machinists should stay on top of the latest trends in advanced manufacturing techniques and technologies in Aurora, CO, and beyond. Some of the latest trends include the following:

• Environmental Sustainability – Many manufacturers are becoming increasingly aware of their responsibility to work toward improved environmental sustainability. In particular, advanced manufacturers may consider implementing carbon capture technology and turning to renewable energy resources.
• Internet of Things (IoT) – In recent years, manufacturers have made a push toward integrating the possibilities of IoT into their operations. With IoT, smart sensors can contribute to proactive, predictive maintenance, which can reduce machine downtime.
• B2C and Customization – Digital technologies are increasingly allowing manufacturers to cut out the middleman (retailers) and sell directly to consumers. This also opens the door to greater customization possibilities.

What Are the Benefits of Advanced Manufacturing in CO?

Advanced manufacturing is an approach that combines cutting-edge technologies and strategies to improve the manufacturing process. Its goals include decreasing costs, increasing quality, boosting environmental sustainability, and streamlining production.

• Boosting Productivity – Smart advanced manufacturing strategies can allow manufacturers to produce products more quickly and efficiently.
• Reducing Production Costs – Streamlining manufacturing processes can help reduce operational costs. With the use of technologies like automation and robotics, manufacturers can reduce their reliance on manual labor, which in turn cuts costs.
• Improving Product Quality – Quality is a top concern among manufacturers. Advanced manufacturing technology and techniques can allow for better production quality.
• Reducing Waste – The manufacturing industry hasn’t always aligned with important environmental objectives, but advanced manufacturing is leading the way to a more sustainable future. Improvements in inventory management and additive manufacturing, for example, can reduce raw material waste.
• Paving the Way for New Products – The automation of advanced manufacturing initiatives can often allow manufacturer’s resources to be allocated toward supporting more research and development projects. This means more innovative new products could be brought to the market.

Challenges Facing the Advanced Manufacturing Industry

Although advanced manufacturing techniques and technology offer exciting possibilities, they are not without their challenges. If you decide to join the manufacturing industry, you might one day work on solving or mitigating some of these challenges. The challenges can differ from one manufacturer to the next, but in general, they include the following:

• Supply Chain Disruptions – Supply chain disruptions are a significant barrier to progress, and they are one that manufacturers cannot easily solve, as they are external. Not only are manufacturers reliant on their raw materials supply chain, but they also need to consider the sourcing of the parts necessary to repair and maintain their machines.
• Operational and Organizational Barriers – In order to reap the benefits of advanced manufacturing techniques and technology, it’s necessary to achieve stakeholder buy-in. Thoughtful change of management is also essential.
• Inconsistencies in Production – It’s true that advanced manufacturing offers the potential for quality improvement. However, among newer technologies, such as advanced composite materials, there are still questions about product inconsistencies, as well as scalability concerns.
• Labor Shortages – Another challenge facing the advanced manufacturing industry is shortages of skilled machinists.

Start Developing Your Advanced Manufacturing Skills

If you’re eager to pursue a future in this field, Pickens Technical College can help. Our Advanced Manufacturing training program offers a combination of didactic and hands-on education to prepare you for a successful manufacturing career. You’ll learn how to use everything from CNC machines to 3D imaging software. Contact Pickens Technical College today to learn about the enrollment process at our campus in Aurora, CO.