#United States #Jackson #JAMA #Lean Rocket Lab #AMTC

Introduction to the ManuTech Prototyping Center

A significant advancement in the Jackson region's manufacturing capabilities is on the horizon with the upcoming launch of the ManuTech Prototyping Center. Set to officially open on December 14, 2026, this innovative facility will support local startups and small to medium-sized manufacturers in transforming their ideas into tangible prototypes within a single afternoon. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will mark the beginning of a new era in manufacturing and technology in Jackson, serving as a hub for creativity and innovation.

Event Overview

The ManuTech Prototyping Center's inauguration will be part of the ManuTech LIVE Innovation Experience 2026, an exciting public event running from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM at the Advanced Manufacturing Training Center (AMTC) on Scheele Drive in Jackson. This event will showcase how startups utilize the new facility and will feature tech companies demonstrating their latest products on the AMTC’s live factory floor. Through this initiative, various stakeholders, including manufacturers, educators, and community leaders, will converge to witness the intersection of technology and practical applications in manufacturing.

What the Center Offers

The ManuTech Prototyping Center embodies a comprehensive digital-to-physical workflow, combining essential resources for both physical products and electronic hardware under one roof. Participants will have access to advanced tools, including:

• - Handheld 3D scanners for precise digital capture of objects,
• - A large-format resin 3D printer that produces high-detail prototypes,
• - Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printers for creating durable functional parts,
• - A SOLIDWORKS workstation for modifying designs from scratch.

Brandon Marken, the CEO of Lean Rocket Lab, emphasized that the facility will bridge digital design with actual production, allowing users to explore innovative ideas in a supportive environment.

Support for Startups and Workforce Development

One of the critical advantages of the ManuTech Prototyping Center is the guidance available to users. With Lean Rocket Lab's Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Steve Tebbetts, overseeing operations, startups will receive hands-on support throughout their product development journeys. This assistance is crucial for entrepreneurs who might otherwise struggle to navigate the complexities of transitioning from concept to finished product.

Additionally, the Prototyping Center will strengthen existing training programs at the AMTC, providing JAMA apprentices and Shop Rat Foundation students with firsthand experience using the same tools and technologies that industry leaders are adopting.

Community Impact

Olivia Steele, the executive director of JAMA, expressed that today's manufacturing landscape is rapidly evolving, necessitating a workforce that can learn and grow alongside these changes. Initiatives like ManuTech LIVE are designed to enlighten participants about potential career paths, particularly in apprenticeships that prepare individuals for the demands of modern manufacturing.

The Shop Rat Foundation, which engages over 4,000 young people annually, views this new center as a gateway for youth to explore technical careers. Kelly Kofflin, the foundation's executive director, highlighted the importance of inspiring young individuals on the functionality of manufacturing and its opportunities.

Technologies Showcased at ManuTech LIVE

During ManuTech LIVE, several startups will display technologies catering to real-world industry challenges. Detect-It will present AI-powered vision technology designed to enhance inspection processes, while Jendamark will unveil the Odin Workstation, an AI-driven system tailored to assembly line tasks. Moreover, companies such as Veriti, Cerebion, and Machine AI Solutions will highlight their innovative solutions that integrate well with the region's manufacturing needs.

Conclusion

The ManuTech Prototyping Center's grand opening marks a pivotal moment for Jackson's manufacturing ecosystem. By providing crucial resources, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities, this facility is set to empower local businesses, inspire innovations, and educate future generations of manufacturers, ensuring a robust and dynamic future for the industry. To participate in this defining moment in Jackson, mark your calendars for the ManuTech LIVE event on December 14, 2026.

For further details or to register, visit Lean Rocket Lab Event.