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What is the University of Michigan manufacturing partnership with LS Manufacturing?
by altabunny9_at_gmail.com＠mail.d2l.msu.edu 01 Nov '25

01 Nov '25

In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the manufacturing sector stands at the intersection of innovation and technology. From 3D printing (additive manufacturing) to CNC machining (subtractive manufacturing), modern engineers are required to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. Recognizing this growing need, the University of Michigan’s College of Engineering has established a ground-breaking partnership with LS Manufacturing, a leading global on-demand manufacturing company. This collaboration—centred around the University of Michigan manufacturing partnership initiative—aims to provide students with hands-on experience in additive and subtractive manufacturing education, bridging academic theory with real-world industrial practices. Together, they are shaping the next generation of manufacturing engineers, innovators, and entrepreneurs. <ol> <li>Introduction</li> </ol> Manufacturing today is not just about producing parts; it’s about producing ideas, efficiency, and sustainability. The rise of additive manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing, alongside traditional subtractive manufacturing methods like CNC machining, has transformed how engineers design, test, and create. Yet, one challenge remains constant in academia—how can students gain real-world manufacturing experience before entering the workforce? Hands-on education is crucial to understanding how concepts like material tolerances, design for manufacturability (DFM), and prototyping translate from theory into production. To address this, the University of Michigan Engineering Department, in partnership with LS Manufacturing, launched a forward-thinking initiative to blend classroom learning with industrial collaboration. This partnership emphasizes rapid prototyping for academic research, student project sponsorship in CNC machining, and opportunities for real-world manufacturing experience for students through capstone project sponsorships and innovation-focused technical grants. <ol start="2"> <li>The Partnership’s Vision & Goals</li> </ol> The University of Michigan manufacturing partnership with LS Manufacturing was born from a shared vision: to cultivate a new generation of engineers fluent in both the digital and physical realms of production. Goal 1: Enhance Student Learning At its core, the partnership focuses on improving how students learn and apply manufacturing principles. By providing access to industrial-grade manufacturing equipment, students can design, prototype, and refine projects using professional tools like high-precision CNC machines and advanced 3D printers. This approach transforms the University of Michigan’s classrooms and labs into dynamic, industry-connected learning environments. Students don’t just learn about manufacturing—they experience it firsthand. Goal 2: Bridge Theory and Practice Engineering theory provides the foundation for design, but practice makes it meaningful. Through this partnership, students engage directly with industry partners from University of Michigan Engineering and LS Manufacturing experts. They receive practical insights into design for manufacturability (DFM), rapid prototyping, and low-volume production—critical skills that align with modern industry expectations. For instance, when developing prototypes, students can leverage rapid prototyping for academic research, gaining experience in both additive and subtractive processes. This real-world engagement ensures they are not only technically proficient but also ready to innovate efficiently. Goal 3: Foster Innovation Innovation thrives at the intersection of creativity and capability. The University of Michigan partnership supports student-led initiatives such as the Solar Car Team, Robotics Club, and Formula SAE by providing manufacturing expertise, technical feedback, and production services. From concept sketches to final assembly, LS Manufacturing’s involvement helps these teams iterate faster and smarter. This collaboration empowers students to push the boundaries of engineering innovation while gaining the confidence to lead future industry breakthroughs. <ol start="3"> <li>How the Partnership Works: The “LS Manufacturing Technical Grant”</li> </ol> At the heart of this collaboration lies the LS Manufacturing Technical Grant, a unique sponsorship-in-kind program designed to empower student innovation. Through this grant, LS Manufacturing offers selected University of Michigan student projects and faculty research initiatives a combination of expert DFM feedback, rapid prototyping services, and production support using state-of-the-art CNC machining, 3D printing, and injection molding technologies. This model represents a corporate sponsorship in manufacturing that prioritizes educational value and accessibility. Rather than a traditional cash grant, it provides students with tangible, high-impact resources—professional-grade components, real-time consultation, and access to global production networks. Application Process The process is simple and inclusive. Student teams, faculty members, or research labs can apply through the University of Michigan Engineering Department’s partnership portal. Applicants outline their project goals, design needs, and desired manufacturing processes. Selected participants receive LS Manufacturing’s technical support to bring their designs to life. This initiative promotes student project sponsorship in CNC machining and similar technologies, encouraging students to prototype and test ideas efficiently. It’s a hands-on, learning-by-doing opportunity that merges academic ambition with industrial capability. <ol start="4"> <li>Expected Impact & Benefits for UM Students</li> </ol> The collaboration’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. It delivers a transformative learning experience by combining advanced technology, mentorship, and real-world exposure. Access to Global Manufacturing Networks Through LS Manufacturing’s online instant quoting platform, students gain access to a vast global manufacturing network. They can upload designs, receive cost estimates instantly, and understand how design choices affect pricing and feasibility. This mirrors real-world industry practices, preparing them for professional engineering roles where digital manufacturing tools are essential. Reduced Project Costs and Lead Times Student projects often face challenges such as limited funding and long turnaround times. LS Manufacturing helps address both issues by providing cost-effective production support and faster lead times. Whether it’s producing a prototype for a capstone project or components for research testing, students can move from concept to prototype at record speed. Skill Development and Industry Interaction Beyond technical proficiency, this partnership develops professional skills—teamwork, communication, and project management. Students interact directly with LS Manufacturing’s engineering experts, gaining feedback on design feasibility and manufacturing optimization. Such exposure provides a window into real-world manufacturing experience, helping them bridge the often-cited gap between academia and industry. Accelerated Research and Innovation For faculty and graduate researchers, access to LS Manufacturing’s rapid prototyping services means faster testing and iteration cycles. Projects that once took months to prototype can now progress in weeks, enabling researchers to focus more on innovation and less on logistical barriers. Ultimately, this partnership enhances not just student outcomes, but the entire research ecosystem at the University of Michigan. <ol start="5"> <li>About LS Manufacturing</li> </ol> LS Manufacturing is a global leader in on-demand manufacturing and rapid prototyping services, empowering innovators and engineers to move from prototype to production with speed and precision. Their core capabilities include CNC machining, 3D printing, injection molding, and sheet metal fabrication—making them a one-stop solution for any stage of the manufacturing process. Through collaborations with academic institutions, LS Manufacturing demonstrates its commitment to supporting education, innovation, and workforce development. By working with the University of Michigan, the company is investing in the future of engineering talent and helping shape the next generation of manufacturing leaders. To learn more about their services and mission, visit <a class="external" href="http://www.lsrpf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.lsrpf.com</a>. <ol start="6"> <li>Conclusion & Looking Ahead</li> </ol> The partnership between the University of Michigan and LS Manufacturing exemplifies what’s possible when academia and industry work hand in hand. By merging additive and subtractive manufacturing education with real-world applications, the collaboration equips students with the tools, experience, and confidence to lead the future of manufacturing. Through the LS Manufacturing Technical Grant, University of Michigan students are not only designing innovative products but also learning how to manufacture them efficiently—a skill set that’s indispensable in the global economy. As this partnership continues to grow, it promises to inspire new research collaborations, support entrepreneurial initiatives, and redefine how engineering education meets the demands of modern manufacturing. The future of the industry depends on creative thinkers, hands-on problem solvers, and innovators—and this program ensures they’re ready to lead. <ol start="7"> <li>Call to Action (For the UM Audience)</li> </ol> Faculty and student teams interested in exploring manufacturing innovation or applying for the LS Manufacturing Technical Grant are encouraged to contact the University of Michigan College of Engineering Department of Mechanical Engineering or visit the UM Engineering Partnership Page for more information. This is more than a sponsorship—it’s a movement toward redefining how students learn, design, and build. Together, the University of Michigan and LS Manufacturing are crafting the future of engineering education—one prototype at a time. FAQs <ol> <li>What is the University of Michigan manufacturing partnership with LS Manufacturing?</li> </ol> The University of Michigan manufacturing partnership with LS Manufacturing is a collaborative program designed to give students hands-on experience in modern manufacturing technologies. It combines additive (3D printing) and subtractive (CNC machining) education, helping students bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world industrial practice. <ol start="2"> <li>How does the LS Manufacturing Technical Grant benefit University of Michigan students?</li> </ol> The LS Manufacturing Technical Grant provides selected students and faculty projects with in-kind sponsorship. This includes DFM (Design for Manufacturability) feedback, rapid prototyping services, and production support using advanced manufacturing technologies. It reduces project costs, shortens lead times, and gives students direct access to industry-level expertise. <ol start="3"> <li>Who can apply for the LS Manufacturing Technical Grant at the University of Michigan?</li> </ol> The grant is open to University of Michigan students, faculty members, and research teams involved in academic or innovation-based projects. Applications can be submitted through the University of Michigan Engineering Department’s partnership portal, detailing project goals and manufacturing requirements. <ol start="4"> <li>What kind of real-world experience do students gain through this partnership?</li> </ol> Students gain real-world manufacturing experience by collaborating directly with LS Manufacturing engineers, learning about design for manufacturability, rapid prototyping, and low-volume production. They also gain exposure to digital tools like instant quoting platforms and online manufacturing networks, preparing them for careers in modern industry. <ol start="5"> <li>How can faculty or student teams learn more about the LS Manufacturing partnership?</li> </ol> Interested participants can visit the University of Michigan College of Engineering’s Partnership Page or contact the department directly for detailed program information. The page includes application guidelines, eligibility details, and examples of past capstone project sponsorships supported by LS Manufacturing.

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