VERSAILLES, Ky. — The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) has received a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) advancing 3D printing practices throughout Kentucky and surrounding regions. 

What You Need To Know

  • The Kentucky Community and Technical College System has received a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation advancing 3D printing practices 

  • KCTCS said the grant's goal is to streamline and advance these technologies to improve manufacturing practices that reduce part lead times, material costs, energy usage and waste

  • KCTCS added its role will focus on workforce development activities and efficient bridging between the education infrastructure and workforce demands

  • Plans involve strengthening the current representation of 3D printing at a group of community colleges

KCTCS said the grant's goal is to advance these technologies to improve manufacturing practices that reduce part lead times, material costs, energy usage and waste, helping make Kentucky an economic hub for 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing. 

KCTCS added its role will focus on workforce development activities and efficient bridging between the education infrastructure and workforce demands. Plans involve strengthening the current representation of 3D printing at a sample of community colleges.

“As the largest provider of skilled talent in the commonwealth, KCTCS is honored to accelerate our work in additive manufacturing technologies,” said KCTCS President Ryan Quarles. “As a core partner, our system has been at the cutting edge of emerging industry innovation by providing opportunities for students to explore additive manufacturing and build relevant skills.”

The grant's two funded partners are KCTCS and the University of Louisville. The Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC) is the award's lead partner, known as the NSF Engines Development award, Advancing Manufacturing and Building Construction Technologies (NSF AMT). 

"We will be laser-focused on collaborating with our partners to expand the pool of qualified individuals who can hit the ground running with companies embracing additive manufacturing technologies across the service region," said Jessie Schook, KCTCS vice president of workforce and economic development. 

Funding comes from the NSF Regional Innovation Engines program, which the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 authorized. 

“We are eager to continue the work and build upon the partnerships we developed as part of our initial NSF Engines proposal through this award," said Terry Samuel, KSTC president and project lead. "It is a testament to the importance and potential of both our region and additive manufacturing technologies."

More on NSF AMT can be found on amt.kstc.org. 

With 16 colleges and a system office created to serve the entire state, KCTCS is Kentucky's largest provider of workforce training and postsecondary education. It has an annual enrollment of more than 100,000 students. 

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