Nikon Advanced Manufacturing (Nikon AM) and ASTM International have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop strategic projects in the field of additive manufacturing. The collaboration focuses on defense applications and workforce qualification programs, particularly in the context of the requirements of the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Navy.
A central element of the partnership is the development of hands-on training and continuing education programs to be implemented at the Nikon AM Technology Center in Long Beach, California. The facility is equipped with large-format laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) systems for metals, as well as laboratories for metallurgy and metrology. The goal is to specifically train technical personnel in the use and advancement of additive manufacturing processes, thereby strengthening domestic production capacity in the long term.
“It has become increasingly clear that advanced manufacturing is critical to national competitiveness, and over the past couple of years, Nikon AM has been executing a strategic plan focused on onshoring these vital capabilities. In order to develop, build and operate the next generation of manufacturing equipment and solutions, we also need to inspire, educate and train the next-generation workforce about AM technology,” said Hamid Zarringhalam, CEO of Nikon AM. “Combined, Nikon AM and ASTM bring nearly 235 years of legacy in quality, precision, and integrity—names that people already know and trust.”
The partnership also aims to facilitate access to publicly funded innovation programs and promote engagement with relevant government agencies. As part of the collaboration, Nikon AM will actively participate in events such as the ASTM International Conference on Advanced Manufacturing (ICAM) and will co-lead workshops on qualification processes, digital transformation, and quality assurance.
“For more than a century, ASTM has helped industries move from possibility to production by transforming markets, enabling standards, and assisting in technological developments,” said Andrew G. Kireta, Jr., President of ASTM International. “This collaboration with Nikon AM brings together two institutions with unmatched legacy and global recognition. Together, we’re reinforcing the connection between workforce development, resilient supply chains, and national security—all while helping accelerate the adoption of advanced manufacturing at an industrial scale.”
The agreement provides an organizational framework for further collaboration, with intellectual property protection and project confidentiality contractually secured. With this partnership, both institutions position themselves as key players in an increasingly security-relevant field of technology.
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