Austin Breaks Ground on New High-Tech Manufacturing Center
AUSTIN – A new high-tech manufacturing center has officially broken ground in the heart of east Austin. The Hayes Innovation Center for Advanced Manufacturing (HICAM) aims to be a 50,000-square-foot facility designed to spark innovation and boost workforce development in the manufacturing sector.
HICAM is driven by the mission of economic and workforce development. According to Marcus Metzger, the Executive Director of HICAM, the center will not only offer a space for innovation but will also serve as a co-working environment for startups. Metzger emphasizes the importance of creating a space where individuals can learn and be inspired. “I want people to come through, be inspired and leave knowing more than they did before, and with a brighter outlook on what they can do,” he stated.
Focus on Startups and Innovation
The new center is particularly attractive for startups focused on areas like robotics, machine learning, next-generation additive manufacturing, and artificial intelligence. Metzger highlighted how the center will equip these companies with the necessary tools to develop their technologies at the early stages. “This isn’t just like chat bots,” he explained. “These are AI systems that can control your production floor and can give you reliable feedback.”
To help find suitable startups, HICAM has partnered with a downtown co-working space known as Capital Factory. Joshua Baer, the founder of Capital Factory, shared his insights on the importance of this initiative. “What’s happening with HICAM is so critical right now because it’s helping to bring manufacturing and really high tech manufacturing here to the U.S. and here to Texas,” said Baer.
Structuring the Future Workforce
In addition to fostering innovation, HICAM is committed to enhancing workforce development in the area. Metzger mentioned, “Our first goal is to create 150 new advanced manufacturing jobs in the east Austin area.” The center plans to offer educational programs that will teach students skills like operating robots and using 3D printing.
Moreover, HICAM plans to provide workforce training for a large audience. “Our other goal is to provide workforce training for 1,000 people over the next three years,” Metzger noted. “It’s our goal to run certifications so you can come here and know nothing about robots, and over the course of eight weeks, gain the skills so that you can become an entry-level operator.”
Anticipated Opening and Future Plans
The center is set to open its doors in early 2025. Excitingly, applications for startups interested in manufacturing and robotics will be available later this year. These startups will have the option to either locate their operations within the space or participate in HICAM’s accelerator program.
The establishment of HICAM is a promising development for Austin, highlighting the city’s growing investment in advanced manufacturing and technology. The initiative aims not only to cultivate new businesses but also to empower job seekers with valuable skills for the future.
