Outreach Activities

The Center for Manufacturing Research (CMR) strives to accommodate the needs of all manufacturers, no matter the size or project requirement. Following are descriptions of the several types of partnerships available to outside organizations.

Externally Funded Projects

Externally funded projects offer organizations outside the academic community the ability to request and receive access to specific, detailed research equipment and experienced personnel. These projects frequently require interdisciplinary collaborations, bringing together faculty and staff from several departments and colleges. The process of establishing a project involves, first, ascertaining the vital requirements of the external organization. This is followed by a proposal from the CMR outlining the time frame, finances, equipment and personnel that will be essential to successfully completing a company’s custom research needs.

Testing

The Center’s own facilities, combined with access to academic resources and personnel from other departments and colleges, make it possible to provide a wide variety of testing services to companies throughout the state. CMR possesses the expertise to perform testing projects in all areas listed under the Strategic Foci; however, specific testing needs can be tailored to a variety of organizational needs.

Industry Work-Study Program

The Center for Manufacturing Research at Tennessee Technological University has established an Industry Work-Study Program to mutually benefit both local industries and TTU students (most undergraduates). Students have benefited greatly by gaining hands-on experience while earning money to apply to their educational expenses. This program has also proven to be a very flexible employment process for industry.

Centers of Excellence Affiliate Program

The Affiliate Program available in each Center of Excellence provides business and industry the opportunity to participate in research and development (R&D) activities annually. The program is primarily designed to give organizations ready access to high quality R&D work. Affiliates receive the benefits associated with a full-time R&D program while making a small investment of resources.

Mission, Vision and Core Values
Strategic Foci
Outreach Activities