STEAMengine USA was born to enhance the potential that sits at the intersection of industrial design and advanced manufacturing.
Our goal is to help companies realize the benefits of new manufacturing technologies such as additive manufacturing and rapid prototype development, as well as spur new business development opportunities, innovations and growth of workforce talent.
A manufacturing renaissance is possible when we use all of our resources in the most effective combinations.
STEAMengine USA has its roots in Rhode Island, a state that was an historic world leader in manufacturing, is rich in leading academic institutions and research centers, and is renowned for its world class design community. STEAM ENGINE USA is uncovering the possibilities at the point where all of these assets converge.
Integrating the unique perspective of designers with the research and training systems of educational institutions, STEAMengine USA optimizes the process of developing and manufacturing new products. Accounting for workforce development, the function, value and appearance of products, and the materials and processes that go into manufacturing, STEAMengine USA addresses all aspects of business innovation. A new, durable, and nimble approach, we aim to spur diversification and acceleration with design and design thinking as the lynchpin.
Peruse this website to learn more about this initiative and ways you can get involved. For more details and a comprehensive overview, click here to access our Frequently Asked Questions.
In today’s global innovation, manufacturing, and maker economy, design is the key to staying ahead of the curve, fueling product iterations and market realizations.
A thriving, revitalized manufacturing sector requires a healthy ecosystem.
Manufacturers will need to understand new potential markets and product development based on their current operations. Designers will want to find manufacturers that can make their ideas a reality. Workers will need to learn new tools and techniques as companies grow, shift, and modify operations. Gaps will need to be found and resources and tools will need to be established to fill them. All parties will need to find each other and understand how the relationship will help them.
Currently in pilot stage, STEAMengine USA is working to build this ecosystem and test the ideas and tools that hope to bridge the gaps towards larger business and economic success. The key levers of the STEAMengine USA ecosystem are network development, design readiness assessment, industrial design and advanced manufacturing asset sharing, innovation pipeline, and workforce and skills development.