Navigating Forward :
Updates from the AAMMC Tech Hub
Recently , I had the pleasure of talking with Jacob Bonwell , CEO of ATC Manufacturing , and Maria Lusardi , marketing director with Lakeside Companies , about what ’ s happening with the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center ( AAMMC ) Tech Hub .
Joanna Boatwright
Washington State Department of Commerce , Aerospace International Trade Specialist
WASHINGTON STATE DEPT . OF COMMERCE
If you recall , the AAMMC consortium is one of 31 Regional Tech Hubs selected from a pool of 400 EDA Tech Hub applicants . Each of the designated Regional Tech Hubs is focused specifically on improving — or supercharging , if you will — the technology ecosystem in their area and working towards being a global leader in that technology . Maria , Jacob and I had only 30 minutes , so we got right to discussing the timeline and funding process , workforce development and training programming , and the technological advancements and global competition that this region is up against compared to Europe and Asia .
Today , the AAMMC is awaiting acceptance of their Phase 2 application that was submitted back in February of 2024 . However , the critical piece , according to Maria , was “ getting the designation in Phase 1 , because the designation is permanent .” This is a pivotal milestone for the region as it ensures a future for additional EDA funding and attracting investment opportunities , creating a foundation for ongoing development and innovation .
What does all this mean in dollars ? The EDA is expected to distribute $ 480 million in grants to five to ten designated Tech Hubs ; awards of $ 40 to $ 70million will be announced this summer , with distribution expected in the fall . In addition , major OEM industry partners in our region have committed to match a portion of the funding .
52 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS