Coventry University’s Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering (AME), the UK’s first ‘Faculty on the Factory Floor,’ has revealed a £6m expansion aimed at advancing the industry towards a clean, sustainable, and digital future.
The recent changes, funded by a £5m University investment and a £1m grant from the Government’s Local Growth Fund through the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, include nearly 2,000 sq metres of additional space with new equipment such as laser welders, new laboratories, a robotic and testing area, and digital twin capabilities.
The ‘relaunch’ celebrates nearly a decade of achievement for AME, with over £110m of research & development and commercial projects completed for leading companies like Aston Martin, Ford, Lotus, and Hyperbat, contributing to over £500m in economic benefits for the UK.
The collaborative work involved nearly 175 companies in the supply chain, and more than 400 students have graduated from AME.
Marcos Kauffman, director of AME said: “The AME expansion is more than just physical growth of an additional 2,000 square metres; it’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to bridging the skills and R&D gap between academia and industry. From our inception in 2014 to today, AME has consistently aimed to be at the forefront of innovative teaching and research with our ‘Faculty on the Factory Floor’ model. This expansion is a beacon of our dedication to nurturing industry-ready talent while also fostering pioneering research that helps solve everyday issues.”
“We are more energised than ever to open our doors to the wider manufacturing and engineering supply chain in the West Midlands, giving them access to world-class facilities, equipment, and experts. Together, we will support the UK’s collective journey into a clean, sustainable and digital world.”
The recent £6m funding brings the total investment in the Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering to £18m.
New facilities include a digital twin pilot environment, AI and VR stations, and dedicated laboratories for materials, metrology, lasers, functional materials and chemistry.
Professor John Latham CBE, Coventry University vice-chancellor, said: “With this launch, we’re not just unveiling a state-of-the-art facility, but also setting the stage for the next generation of engineers, innovators, and clean technologies. AME’s vision has always been about creating transformative solutions for the industry and pressing social challenges. With this expansion, we’re poised to increase our reach and have an even greater impact on students, industry, and the local economy.”
