Obama Administration Visits NextFlex Along with PARC CEO Stephen Hoover; Discussion Surrounds ‘Future of Manufacturing’

PARC has been developing novel printed electronics technologies for more than 15 years. Working with a variety of partners in material science, novel 2D and 3D printing, process-driven design, and others, PARC is pleased to support NextFlex, a consortium of companies, academic institutions, nonprofits, and governments. With a mission to advance the U.S. manufacturing of flexible hybrid electronics, NextFlex encourages investment in the manufacturing ecosystem for this exciting technology, in return for receiving intellectual property, new product ideas and partners.

The idea of applying printing to electronics and manufacturing — in order to increase innovation in manufacturing, lower costs, and make products that are smarter and more personalized — is coming to fruition. And, it has the support of the U.S. government. Last month, Dr. Jill Biden visited NextFlex as part of a nationwide effort to promote the importance of community colleges and their role in America’s future. Dr. Biden was joined by prominent Silicon Valley business leaders – including Dr. Stephen Hoover, CEO of PARC – in technology and manufacturing industries to discuss how employers can play a role in President Obama’s America’s College Promise Initiative.

NextFlex announced last month: NextFlex was the ideal host for this prestigious panel given its strong commitment and ongoing efforts to foster education and workforce development in the area of flexible hybrid electronics and advanced manufacturing.

PARC also recently announced its support for NextFlex by attending their opening event in August and showcasing a number of technologies in the printed and flexible electronics field.

“3-D printing gets a lot of attention, but even perhaps more profound is the larger sea change,” said Hoover. “I’m talking about the democratization of product development and manufacturing, which has reached a turning point as various technologies and services make it easy for entrepreneurs to design, manufacture and get funding. PARC is pleased to be creating technologies, and partnering with industry leaders and the government, to help create disruption, and giving way to new industries.”