High School, College and Graduate Level Programming – Learn by Doing for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students.
Students will learn by doing in fields that relate directly to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) disciplines, which is an essential way to spur curiosity and innovation, as well as teaching skills that can lead to careers in advanced materials and engineering. Students will be exposed to advanced composite materials like carbon fiber in order to generate an organic interest in the materials. CCI’s strong relationships with local rowing, cycling, motor sports, sailing, and paddling programs will be a natural way to connect learning to the actual day-to-day use of these materials by Chicagoans. Students also will work with industry leading companies who want be a part of this advanced manufacturing movement.
In order for Chicago be become a center for the development of advanced manufacturing, a comprehensive plan to create a pipeline of skilled residents prepared to work is of paramount importance. Advanced manufacturing has the momentum needed to put a large number of Chicagoans back to work, as well as increase their income or wage-earning potential. Advanced manufacturing also will ensure that members of Chicago’s disadvantaged populations and youth have access to these new and unique employment opportunities.
Just like in Silicon Valley or at Chicago’s own 1871, Chicago’s advanced manufacturing industry needs to have a dedicated facility to provide Chicago start-ups with an affordable work space, reliably sourced materials, access to mentors, programming, educational resources, potential investors, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. This hub will be the foundation for the development of new businesses that can rely on Chicago’s newly established advanced manufacturing industry.
Along with student outreach, job training for adults and resources for entrepreneurs, Chicago needs to meet the unique needs of companies seeking advanced manufacturing in order to benefit from this fast-growing industry. The success of this concept relies on Chicago’s capacity to produce technologically advanced products through the coordination of sourced materials, shared manufacturing infrastructure, a well-trained workforce, and a partnership with elected officials all working toward the goal of making Chicago a center for advanced manufacturing.