Obama Announces New Manufacturing Hub In Michigan
WASHINGTON (WWJ/AP) - Canton, Michigan has been chosen by the federal government to be the home of new technology and innovation hub.
President Barack Obama on Tuesday announced the creation of two Pentagon-led institutes, using public and private resources, to boost advanced manufacturing, help create jobs and perhaps build the next "Iron Man."
The Michigan hub, called the called the American Lightweight Manufacturing Innovation Institute, is a $140 million commitment over the next five years that will focus on research, creating new materials for high-tech manufacturing, and job training.
"Detroit's already helped lead the American comeback in manufacturing," Obama said. "The American auto industry's created almost 420,000 new jobs. And they've already begun using new high-strength steel to make lighter cars that use less gas, save money, help save the planet; cars are still safe because of these new metals."
Michigan U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow says the project is good news for our state.
"Over time we're talking about thousands of jobs," Stabenow said. "This really is about the next step in new materials being used in auto manufacturing as well as other kinds of manufacturing."
The hub will run by the University of Michigan with assistance from other state universities.
Obama said the research will translated into real-world products made by American workers.
"Lighter armored vehicle for our troops, planes and helicopters that can carry bigger payloads," he said. "...Wind turbines that generate more power at less cost; prosthetic limbs that help people walk who never thought they could."
The second midwest center will be in Obama's hometown of Chicago, concentrating on high-tech digital manufacturing and design.
Obama says the hubs will keep America at the cutting edge of technology and innovation. He says that will help ensure the steady creation of good-paying jobs in advanced manufacturing that will help expand the middle class.
The institutes fulfill a 2013 promise by Obama to create three manufacturing hubs with a federal infusion of $200 million.
The third hub is an Energy Department-led project in Raleigh, N.C.
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