Key Takeaways
- The need for speed in additive manufacturing was a recurring theme at MMX 2026
- Matthew Sermon, Executive Director of DRPM Submarines, emphasized the importance of increasing speed to stay competitive
- America Makes is broadening its scope to include adaptive manufacturing, in addition to additive manufacturing
- The organization is driven by the non-profit National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM)
Introduction to MMX 2026
The annual Members Meeting and Exchange (MMX) 2026, held by America Makes in Youngstown, Ohio, kicked off with a focus on the need for speed in additive manufacturing. With several presentations highlighting the importance of accelerating production, it became clear that this was a dominant theme of the event.
The Need for Speed
Matthew Sermon, Executive Director of DRPM Submarines, set the tone for the event with his opening keynote, emphasizing that the progress in additive manufacturing, while real, is "not near fast enough." He stressed that the industry needs to move faster to stay competitive, particularly in comparison to adversaries. As Sermon noted, "It's nothing like the speed that our adversaries move at. We have to move faster."
Institute Updates
America Makes, driven by the non-profit National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM), has been expanding its scope to include adaptive manufacturing, in addition to additive manufacturing. This move is part of the organization's efforts to accelerate advanced manufacturing in the U.S. The following table compares the key features of additive and adaptive manufacturing:
| Technology | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Additive Manufacturing (AM) | Builds products layer by layer | Increased complexity, reduced material waste |
| Adaptive Manufacturing | Combines additive and subtractive manufacturing techniques | Improved speed, enhanced flexibility |
Accelerating Advanced Manufacturing
As one of nearly 20 Manufacturing USA institutes, America Makes is playing a crucial role in driving innovation and growth in the U.S. manufacturing sector. With its expanded scope, the organization is well-positioned to support the development of advanced manufacturing technologies, including adaptive manufacturing.
Bottom Line
The need for speed in additive manufacturing was a clear takeaway from MMX 2026. As emphasized by Matthew Sermon and other speakers, the industry must accelerate production to stay competitive. With America Makes broadening its scope to include adaptive manufacturing, the organization is well-positioned to support the development of advanced manufacturing technologies and drive growth in the U.S. manufacturing sector. By prioritizing speed and innovation, the industry can unlock new opportunities and stay ahead of the curve.