3D printing industry eyed for Guam

The Department of Navy is looking into the possibility of bringing additive manufacturing, commonly known as three-dimensional printing, to Guam, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said Tuesday.

Leon Guerrero said the exploration of this industry was among the topics discussed during her meeting with Undersecretary of the Navy, James Guerts during her recent visit in Washington D.C.

The potential new business opportunity, the governor said, would add to Guam's economic diversification plan.

"We agreed the emerging technology could support Guam’s economic growth and resiliency and strengthen the island’s positionin the Asia-Pacific region by increasing military capabilities at lower costs," the governor said. "Additive manufacturing benefits include flexibility, design freedom, time-to-market, and mass customization and production."

In February this year, the U.S. Department of Defense released its first-ever comprehensive additive manufacturing strategy, which aims to establish a common vision for the use of 3D printing within the nation’s defense program.

The Office of the Secretary of Defense Manufacturing Technology Program Office has drafted the strategy in partnership with the military services and other defense agencies, outlining five strategic goals to broaden the adoption of 3D printing throughout its defense sector.

The governor said she has directed the Bureau of Statistics and Plans to work with the Guam Economic Development Authority and Community Defense Liaison Office to conduct a feasibility study.

"Guam’s economic resiliency is heavily dependenton industry diversification, and our island is in the perfect position to experiment with new technologies, attract investors, and build up our workforce, which I envision could take root at the University of Guam’s School of Engineering, Guam Community College, or even with the Guam Trades Academy," the governor said.

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The governor also announed two grants $2.5 million to support Guam’s travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation sectors as part of EDA’s implementation of the American Rescue Plan Act.

"I look forward to maximizing our grant opportunities in the nearly $3 billion made available by the Economic Development Administration to state, territorial, and local governments," the governor said.

"While our local government will apply for these grants, I’m also glad to share the Deputy Secretary’scommitment to expanding these funds for technical assistance to applicants in forming and implementing plans, ensuring these monies will be used to their fullest potential," she added.

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