Apple Launches Free Manufacturing Academy to Empower US SMBs

CNBC AI News, July 30 – Apple is doubling down on its commitment to American manufacturing. The tech giant announced it will launch the “Apple Manufacturing Academy” in Detroit on August 19th, according to reports. This initiative will provide free “smart manufacturing” training programs to small and medium-sized businesses across the U.S., aiming to bolster innovation and competitiveness in the American manufacturing landscape.

The Academy is a collaboration with Michigan State University, with Apple engineers serving as instructors. The move is part of Apple’s broader commitment to invest over $500 billion in the U.S. over the next four years, continuing its long-standing investment in domestic innovation and advanced manufacturing.

Recognizing the challenges facing U.S. manufacturing in recent years, including intense global competition, Apple believes that “smart manufacturing” – the integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI into production processes – is key to unlocking future growth. The Academy’s curriculum will cover vital areas such as the application of machine learning and deep learning in manufacturing, automation strategies, data-driven quality enhancement, and digital operational optimization.

While the training sessions will be held in Detroit, companies nationwide are invited to apply. Furthermore, Apple will offer online consulting services to American businesses, allowing them to access expert guidance without the need to travel to Detroit.

“We know that advanced manufacturing is vital to America’s innovation and leadership,” said Sabih Khan, Apple’s Chief Operating Officer. „Building on our long history of working with suppliers across all 50 states, we’re excited to help even more businesses master smart manufacturing so they can grow, create jobs, and help build a stronger future for our country.”

In addition to the core smart manufacturing curriculum, Apple plans to introduce supplementary training programs in project management and manufacturing process optimization later this year. These additions aim to further empower businesses to enhance their overall manufacturing capabilities. The Apple Manufacturing Academy is focused on cultivating a homegrown talent pool in the field of smart manufacturing.