Participants gain the following skills through the CAML program:

• Advanced manufacturing concepts and processes
• Lean manufacturing
• Workplace Skills: document reading and use
• Project Management
• Health and safety
• 6-Sigma
• CNC Machining
• Workplace Skills: Numeracy and data analytics
• Quality assurance
• Leadership skills

Employers can post projects spanning advanced manufacturing, including but not limited to projects suited to the skills of advanced manufacturing technicians, drafting and CAD technicians, CNC machining technicians, CNC machinists, manufacturing technicians, mechatronics and industrial automation technicians, production planners, production operations managers, production supervisors, quality control inspectors, quality assurance managers, process improvement specialists, operations managers, and project managers.

Below are a few examples of projects:

Optimizing Manufacturing Processes

Project: Conduct a comprehensive process mapping or value stream analysis to optimize production efficiency.

Description: Analyze the production process, from raw material acquisition to product delivery, using process or value stream mapping techniques. Identify waste areas, such as overproduction, excess inventory, or unnecessary transportation, and propose lean solutions to streamline operations and reduce costs.

Optimizing Manufacturing Processes Of 3D Printed Product

Project: Aim to optimize the manufacturing process of a 3D-printed product, focusing on improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality.

Description: Project could include any elements of below - 

Initial Design and 3D Modeling:

• Create a detailed 3D model of the selected product using CAD software like SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or AutoCAD.
• Optimize the design for 3D printing by considering factors like print orientation, support structures, and layer thickness.

Cost Analysis:

• Conduct a detailed cost analysis, including material costs, energy consumption, labor costs, and equipment depreciation.
• Identify potential cost-saving measures, such as optimizing material usage, reducing print time, and streamlining post-processing.

Quality Control:

• Establish quality control procedures to ensure consistent product quality.
• Implement inspection techniques like visual inspection, dimensional measurement, and functional testing.
• Use statistical process control (SPC) methods to monitor and improve process performance.

Sustainability Considerations:

• Evaluate the environmental impact of the 3D printing process, including energy consumption, material usage, and waste generation.
• Explore sustainable practices like using recycled materials, energy-efficient 3D printers, and responsible waste disposal.

Potential Extensions:

• Automation and Robotics: Integrate automation and robotics into the 3D printing process to increase efficiency and productivity.
• Additive Manufacturing Techniques: Explore advanced additive manufacturing techniques like metal 3D printing or 4D printing.
• Material Science: Conduct research on new materials and their potential applications in 3D printing.
• Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM): Optimize product designs specifically for 3D printing, considering factors like manufacturability, strength, and weight reduction.

Designing and Implementing a Sustainable Manufacturing Process

This project aims to design and implement a sustainable manufacturing process for a specific product, focusing on reducing environmental impact and improving resource efficiency.

Description: Project could include any elements of below - 

Sustainable Material Selection:

• Research and select sustainable materials with low environmental impact.
• Consider factors like recyclability, biodegradability, and renewable sources.
• Explore the use of recycled or reclaimed materials.

Energy Efficiency:

• Identify energy-intensive processes in the manufacturing process.
• Implement energy-efficient technologies and practices, such as energy-efficient equipment, lighting, and HVAC systems.
• Explore renewable energy sources like solar or wind power.

Waste Reduction:

• Implement waste reduction strategies like waste minimization, recycling, and composting.
• Design products for easy disassembly and recycling.
• Optimize production processes to minimize material waste and scrap.

Water Conservation:

• Identify water-intensive processes and implement water conservation measures.
• Use water-efficient technologies and practices, such as water recycling and rainwater harvesting.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA):

• Conduct an LCA to assess the environmental impact of the product throughout its life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal.
• Identify areas for improvement and set targets for reducing environmental impact.

Green Manufacturing Certification:

• Explore obtaining green manufacturing certifications like ISO 14001 to demonstrate commitment to sustainability.
• Implement the required environmental management systems and procedures.

Employee Training and Awareness:

• Train employees on sustainable manufacturing practices, including waste reduction, energy conservation, and safe chemical handling.
• Promote a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Potential Extensions:

• Circular Economy: Design products for circularity, considering end-of-life options like reuse, repair, and recycling.
• Biomimicry: Apply principles from nature to design sustainable and efficient manufacturing processes.
• Social Responsibility: Implement fair labor practices and ethical sourcing of materials.