The Quad Cities Manufacturing Institute (QCMI) is a transformative partnership of Western Illinois University, the University of Illinois System and Iowa State University that aims to create a hub for cutting-edge research, workforce development, technology transfer, and industry collaboration. QCMI aligns directly with the Department of Defense and actively engages with both public entities and private companies.
Our Vision
QCMI is a recognized leader in technology innovation and workforce development, focused on advanced manufacturing and materials technologies that benefit the Department of Defense, the business community, and higher education.
Our Mission
QCMI drives innovation and economic growth by developing new technologies and educating the workforce, creating a prosperous and secure future for U.S. defense and manufacturing.
Collaborate with us
Scope of Collaboration
- Joint research and development
We facilitate collaborative projects that drive innovation, explorecutting-edge technologies, and address industry challenges. - Training and workforce development
We collaborate with educational institutions and industrypartners to enhance the worker skills needed for advanced manufacturing roles. - Shared research facilities and infrastructure
Our shared facilities with cutting-edge equipment andinfrastructure offer a collaborative space for research, experimentation and testing that accelerates technological advancements. - Public and private partnerships
By fostering both public and private partnerships, we createa dynamic ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders. - Supporting the Department of Defense mission
QCMI aligns with the Department of Defense goals bysupporting national defense readiness and contributing to defense-related technologies and workforce development. - Technology creation and demonstration in collaboration with industry, locally and nationally
Through collaborations with industry partners, we matchlocal innovations with practical applications to create real-world impact. - Dynamic engagement model for industry partners
- QCMI’s engagement model encourages active participationfrom businesses.
- By fostering dialogue and collaboration, we create a vibrant ecosystem for mutual growth.
Topics for Collaboration
- Digital manufacturing technologies
Automation and robotics to enhance production efficiency and quality. - Artificial intelligence for manufacturing
AI-driven software tools for optimizing manufacturing processes. - Additive manufacturing
Materials properties, process parameters and part qualification. - Materials engineering
Materials selection, characterization, and new materials design.
