The Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute is a partnership between Western Illinois University, the University of Illinois System and Iowa State University that will focus on research and development and workforce development in advanced manufacturing and materials.
“The launch of the Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute marks a pivotal moment in Western Illinois University’s commitment to innovation and workforce development,” WIU Interim President Kristi Mindrup said. “This collaboration between educational institutions and industry will drive technological advancements and nurture a highly skilled workforce for the Quad Cities region and beyond.”
QCMI aims to foster collaboration between the U.S. Army Rock Island Arsenal, regional businesses, participating universities and local community colleges. A new facility will be built on WIU’s river campus in Moline, in addition to the existing space at the Rock Island Arsenal.
“The University of Illinois System drives economic opportunity throughout the state by engaging in partnerships with the private sector and like-minded institutions of higher education,” system President Tim Killeen said. “The Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute is a powerful example, working with our partners from Western Illinois University and Iowa State University to seize a significant opportunity and leveraging our expertise to help deliver results that build a better future for all of us.”
The institute will focus on advanced research and development in the field of additive manufacturing and materials. It will work closely with defense industry partners to put technological breakthroughs into practice while training skilled workers.
“Iowa State University is proud to be part of this groundbreaking partnership to establish the Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute,” Iowa State University President Wendy Wintersteen said. “This initiative will bring to bear our strengths as a land-grant university – fostering collaboration, conducting advanced research and developing innovations that support the local workforce and drive economic growth.”
One example of QCMI’s work is materials research for the U.S. Department of Defense. Researchers, including William P. King of the University of Illinois and Peter Collins of Iowa State University, are developing new materials that better protect military troops, equipment and facilities. These materials are lighter and stronger than conventional materials while providing more protection.
“I am eager to see this exciting new partnership with our higher education institutions drive innovative opportunities for manufacturing growth that will create jobs and hope for the entire region,” Illinois State Sen. Mike Halpin, D-Rock Island said. “My commitment is to work closely with the partners in the QCMI to do everything we can in the Legislature to support manufacturing and economic opportunities in the Quad Cities and across the state of Illinois. Congratulations to all on such an important initiative.”
The QCMI will not only contribute to defense readiness, but will also foster collaboration between universities, industry and the community to develop new technologies and maintain a world-class skills base. This will strengthen both the region and the national security and manufacturing landscape in the long term.
“The launch of QCMI is a giant leap forward in positioning the Quad Cities a leader in manufacturing innovation,” Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Peter Tokar said. “The combination of Tier 1 research institutions, community collaborators and local industry leaders will cement the Quad Cities as an economic powerhouse and innovation hub of the Midwest.”
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