Additive manufacturing program to receive $10 million in funding

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Howland, D-13th, announced new funding for an additive manufacturing innovation research program based at an Air Force base in Dayton.

The program, which was created last year at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, will receive $10 million to equip the Air Force with the technology and expertise to use 3-D printing technology and expertise to produce replacement parts for weapons systems at a lower cost. “Additive manufacturing is transforming every sector of our national economy, and it is clear that Ohio is leading the way,” Ryan said in a statement. “I’m proud to assist in the funding of this program that will ultimately help grow manufacturing jobs in our state and across the nation, while at the same time reduce costs for the Defense Department.”

Ryan, a member of the House Defense Subcommittee on Appropriations, was able to obtain the funds for the program in the Fiscal Year 2016 Defense Appropriations Bill, which passed the House Appropriations Committee on Thursday. U.S. Rep. Mike Turner of Dayton, R-10th, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, was able to include authorizing language into the Fiscal Year 2016 National Defense Authorization Act for the program.

“I am proud to be a leader on this program that continues to support Ohio manufacturing capabilities and taps into the talent at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. This is just one example of how bipartisan initiatives can expand opportunities and continue to bring jobs to Ohio and assist the Defense Department,” Turner said in a statement.

Both bills must still be passed by the Senate and signed by the president.