The Government of Ontario has invested $4.2 million to assist in the construction of a high-tech manufacturing facility in Niagara Falls, O.N. at Niagara College. The development, known as the Niagara College Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, will allow students, Ontario-based manufacturers and faculty access to state-of-the-art equipment and research facilities.

“Investing in modern, innovative facilities like the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre is vital to Ontario’s future economic growth,” says Reza Moridi, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. “By connecting students with local businesses, this centre will provide students with the hands-on applied learning they need in the 21st century knowledge economy, while boosting productivity for manufacturers. Together, these benefits will help create the next generation of manufacturing in Ontario.”

With more than 850 small and medium-sized businesses operating in the Niagara region, the centre will allow students and local manufacturers to come together, reducing production costs and time. The facility will also serve as a place to turn hands-on, applied learning directly into real-world skills.

“Ontario’s funding for a permanent home for our Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre will provide local manufacturers with increased access to leading-edge facilities, equipment, technical expertise, training and services,” says Dr. Dan Patterson, President, Niagara College. “The centre’s community will boost the regional economy by developing commercialization solutions, innovating products and processes, and expanding into new markets.”

The centre’s areas of focus will include engineering design, 3D digital scanning technology, lean manufacturing processes and additive manufacturing.