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News | Feb. 21, 2018

Leaders discuss strategies at additive manufacturing summit

By DLA Public Affairs

 The Defense Strategies Institute hosted military and civilian leaders from the defense department and private industry at the second Additive Manufacturing Summit in Tampa, Florida, Feb. 1-2. 

Defense Logistics Agency Director Army Lt. Gen. Darrell Williams addressed issues regarding the modernization of DLA supply chains through additive manufacturing. He said although AM is not a panacea, leaders must learn to maximize the capability. In addition, he noted, if DLA can reduce even a small part of its inventory by using this technology, it could help the agency reinvest in readiness or reduce long lead times.

He stressed that organizations needed to implement strategy, doctrine and policy on the use of AM and determine its niche.

Williams also discussed potential DLA roles as the provider of materials and data storage for AM and the purchasing organization for AM machines. He also mentioned that DLA could provide support in protection against counterfeit and nonconforming parts.

The DSI’s town hall forum offered attendees a unique ability to discuss their mission critical needs in an educational atmosphere that fostered actionable and constructive dialogue. Discussion topics included end-to-end global supply chain management and strategic efforts to align to the DoD AM roadmap.

Notable attendees at the summit were: Maj. Gen. Craig Crenshaw, Marine Corps Logistics Command; Maj. Gen. Edward Dorman, U.S. Central Command; Anthony Sebasto, senior executive from U.S. Army Research Development and Engineering Command; and William Bray, senior executive from U.S. Navy Research Development Test and Evaluation.