Aiken, SC, August 12, 2025
News Summary
The Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC) has officially opened its doors at the University of South Carolina Aiken, marking a major development in advanced manufacturing and technology. This $66 million facility covers 63,000 square feet and aims to foster innovation in various fields, including manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and biomaterials. Expected to employ around 100 scientists, the center will provide valuable internship opportunities and job training while bridging the gap between education and industry needs.
Aiken, SC – The Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC) has officially opened on the University of South Carolina Aiken campus, marking a significant milestone in the area of advanced manufacturing and technology. This state-of-the-art facility spans 63,000 square feet and has been developed over a decade, culminating in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 7, 2025, attended by notable figures including Energy Secretary Chris Wright, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, and U.S. Representative Joe Wilson.
Costing $66 million and taking three years to build, the AMC is a joint project between the U.S. Department of Energy’s Savannah River National Laboratory and the University of South Carolina Aiken. Although the construction is complete, the center is not yet operational as equipment is still being moved in to support a team of about 100 scientists who will ultimately be working there.
The AMC is designed to foster innovation in various fields of technology including manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), and biomaterials. Among its key features are a mini data center for AI research, a two-story room accommodating large-scale projects, and a specialized lab dedicated to manufacturing biomaterials. The center’s existence is expected to bridge the gap between education and industry needs, providing valuable internship opportunities and job training for students at USC Aiken.
Strategically located just 15 miles from the Savannah River Nuclear Site, the AMC is poised to support the ongoing development of crucial technologies required by private sector companies. This proximity to the nuclear site underlines the project’s alignment with national energy initiatives, specifically those aimed at enhancing nuclear power generation and encouraging advanced manufacturing practices. The Savannah River site is notable for being the only federal facility recycling tritium for nuclear weapons, as well as preparing for potential plutonium recycling activities, making the AMC’s role even more critical.
Originally envisioned more than a decade ago, the AMC’s development has ties to the previous administration’s efforts to stimulate American manufacturing and harness cutting-edge AI technology. Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized the center’s potential to attract additional private investment to the region, positioning the AMC as a central hub for collaborations between scientists and industry partners. By delivering technological breakthroughs, the center aims to become an economic engine for the area, fostering innovation and generating new job opportunities.
Senator Lindsey Graham highlighted the significance of the funding secured for the AMC, viewing it as a vital investment in community job creation and national security. The facility is also expected to support advancements in energy resilience, AI-driven automation, and additive manufacturing, thereby positioning the region as a leader in these emerging fields.
As the facility prepares to open its doors to staff and operations, the local community is optimistic about the opportunities it will bring. The comprehensive capabilities of the AMC are set to redefine the dynamics of advanced manufacturing in the region, paving the way for future technological advancements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Center?
The purpose of the AMC is to advance research and development in manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and biomaterials, while providing internship opportunities and job training for students.
How much did it cost to build the AMC?
The construction of the AMC cost $66 million.
How large is the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Center?
The AMC spans 63,000 square feet.
Where is the AMC located?
The AMC is located on the University of South Carolina Aiken campus, just 15 miles from the Savannah River Nuclear Site.
When was the opening ceremony held?
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the AMC was held on August 7, 2025.
Who participated in the opening ceremony?
Energy Secretary Chris Wright, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, and U.S. Representative Joe Wilson participated in the opening ceremony.
Key Features of the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Center
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 63,000 square feet |
| Cost | $66 million |
| Location | University of South Carolina Aiken campus, 15 miles from Savannah River Nuclear Site |
| Team Size | Approximately 100 scientists |
| Key Facilities | Mini data center, two-story room for large projects, biomaterials manufacturing lab |
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Facility at USC Aiken Aims to Help Advance Future Energy
- Wikipedia: Advanced Manufacturing
- SC Daily Gazette: $66M Manufacturing and Research Center Opens at USC Aiken
- Google Search: Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Center
- The Augusta Press: Secretary of Energy and Lindsay Graham Among Celebrants at Grand Opening of SRNL’s Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Facility
- Google Scholar: Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Center
- Index Journal: $66M Manufacturing and Research Center Opens at USC Aiken
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Advanced Manufacturing
- Post and Courier: Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Opens with Graham, Wilson
- Google News: Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Center
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