One of the most important jobs of the Legislature is to invest in long-range economic development to ensure future growth across Iowa. When we invest in our state universities, we’re fueling an engine for growth. Our state universities educate our workforce, advance research and development, and provide businesses with innovative services.
The University of Northern Iowa’s Metal Casting Center is a great example. It has positioned itself as a top-notch advanced manufacturing center. The Metal Casting Center was established in 1990 to specialize in research to advance the metal casting industry. The Center has become nationally recognized leader in foundry research, applied technology and technical business assistance.
In 2013, with the help of an appropriation by the Legislature, the Center purchased the largest 3D printer in North America. The Center now provides more than 75 companies with 3D sand-cast moldings, including tractor engine cores and fuel distribution systems for jet engines.
The Center has provided services to such Iowa and regional manufacturers as Deere & Company, Emerson Process Control in Marshalltown, American Pattern Company in Cedar Falls, UES in Waverly, Wellman Dynamics Fanstell in Cresco, Rock Island Arsenal and Sivyer Steel in the Quad Cities.
In addition, the Metal Casting Center is a great worker-training program, providing hands-on instruction to UNI and Hawkeye Community College students. The skills they acquire put them in immediate demand to fills job openings in the advanced manufacturing industry.
For more information on the University of Northern Iowa’s Metal Casting Center, go to www.mcc.uni.edu.