Frequently Asked Questions

Industry & workforce development:

  • Becoming an AMICSTL partner offers manufacturers significant advantages. Partners have the unique ability to influence and guide AMICSTL’s projects, ensuring that the initiatives directly impact and enhance their products, processes, and workforce. Additionally, partners gain increased visibility and exclusive access to AMICSTL’s growing resources and programming. This includes cutting-edge research, advanced technologies, specialized programs, and networking opportunities with peers in industry. By collaborating closely with AMICSTL, manufacturers can stay ahead of industry trends, drive innovation, and maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.

    Specifically, AMICSTL will provide benefits to industry through:

    Workforce Integration: AMICSTL will provide the leadership and serve as both a convener and a catalyst and provide seamless communication between workforce development and training entities with manufacturers. The facility will also provide applied learning opportunities.

    Research and Development: Offering state-of-the-art resources and collaborative space for groundbreaking research and technological advancements in manufacturing processes.

    Prototyping: Enabling the rapid development and testing of new products and technologies, accelerating the journey from concept to market.

    Community Connection: Creating a hub where manufacturers, educators, researchers, and community members can connect, collaborate, and drive economic growth.

    By focusing on these areas, AMICSTL aims to support the evolving needs of advanced manufacturers and contribute to the economic vitality and innovation within our community.

  • We anticipate that the new AMICSTL facility will be operational by the second quarter of 2026. In the meantime, we are actively engaged in various initiatives to advance our mission. 

  • Yes, AMICSTL is actively engaged in several initiatives ahead of building completion and our efforts will grow. We are collaborating with industry partners on several research and development projects such as developing new processes to enhance efficiency and evaluating the cost-effectiveness of new materials.  Additionally, we are partnering with workforce training and development organizations to attract talent to the manufacturing sector and scale training efforts, increasing the number of skilled individuals available for hire.

    If you have an R&D or Workforce need, reach out through info@amicstl.org

  • AMICSTL will not be a manufacturing production entity. Instead, AMICSTL will support a diverse range of activities focusing on eight key industry sectors:

    1. Aerospace & Defense

    2. Agtech & Plant Sciences

    3. Automotive

    4. Biomedical & Life Sciences

    5. Construction

    6. Energy

    7. Geospatial & Location Sciences

    8. Transportation & Logistics

    Key Features and Benefits:

    Access to Cutting-Edge Equipment: Companies will be able to use and leverage AMICSTL advanced manufacturing equipment and state-of-the-art labs without the need to buy this expensive equipment on their own.

    Expansive Manufacturing Bays: Large, flexible spaces will accommodate various manufacturing processes, allowing for experimentation and innovation.

    Collaborative Environment: The facility will provide direct access to subject matter experts, fostering ideation, problem-solving, and peer support through a unique partnership with AMICSTL.

    Innovation and Development: While not a production facility, AMICSTL will serve as a hub for research, development, and prototyping, helping companies advance their manufacturing capabilities and bring new products to market.

  • AMICSTL is engaging with researchers across the region to develop technology to solve real-world problems for manufacturers. If your company needs assistance on a technical problem, we want to hear from you! Previous examples of assistance include additive manufacturing insertions, digital factory simulations, and advanced metallurgy solutions. To learn more about the capabilities of our research partners, please visit www.amicstl.org/research-and-development or contact us at info@amicstl.org.

  • Yes. AMICSTL ensures that a company’s Intellectual Property (IP) is maintained and protected through robust legal agreements. Additionally, once our facility is complete, we will have access control to research areas and secure network connections.  We will continuously review and implement further measures to safeguard the research and IP of our partners as needed.

  • Yes, entities that are not manufacturers can indeed become AMICSTL partners. Advanced manufacturing encompasses much more than just the production of items. It includes a wide array of ancillary industries such as supply chain management, workforce training, digital technology, sensing, among others. 

    By partnering with AMICSTL, non-manufacturing entities can gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in these areas, foster innovation and contribute to the overall ecosystem. This collaborative approach helps in driving forward technological progress and creating synergies that benefit all stakeholders involved.

  • Effective leadership, collaboration, and integration are the cornerstones of a thriving manufacturing workforce development ecosystem. With a mission to bridge the gap between today’s job market and future career opportunities in manufacturing, AMICSTL will be a workforce integrator—providing the leadership and serving as both a convener and a catalyst, linking workforce development and training entities with manufacturers.

    We are already working closely with workforce training providers and industry leaders to ensure training aligns with industry needs. Once completed, our facility will serve as a central hub for these collaborations, offering opportunities for cutting-edge training and programming to equip both the current and next generation of workers with the skills required for high-tech manufacturing careers.

    AMICSTL will work with industry partners to develop apprenticeship and internship opportunities, providing hands-on experience and practical training. AMICSTL’s goal is to ensure that individuals are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the manufacturing sector. We aim to support the continuous development of a skilled workforce, contributing to the growth and innovation of our regional manufacturing community.

  • Home to 40 colleges, trade schools, and universities, and numerous workforce training organizations and programs, the St. Louis metro area offers a rich environment for the development of the skilled workforce who will solidify the region’s position as an epicenter for advanced manufacturing. AMICSTL is growing its partnerships with area institutions to connect individuals, programs, and manufacturers to streamline and grow the employment pipeline. To learn more about our efforts and growing partnerships, please visit https://www.amicstl.org/workforce-integration or contact us at info@amicstl.org to collaborate with us. 

community:

  • The purpose of the new facility in our community is to foster a vibrant ecosystem that drives innovation and growth in advanced manufacturing. The facility will be dedicated to:

    Workforce Integration: As a regional workforce integrator, the facility may be used by partners and industry to provide cutting edge training and programming to equip the current and next generation of workers with the skills needed for high-tech manufacturing careers.

    Research and Development: Offering state-of-the-art resources and collaborative space for groundbreaking research and technological advancements in manufacturing processes.

    Prototyping: Enabling the rapid development and testing of new products and technologies, accelerating the journey from concept to market.

    Community Connection: Creating a hub where manufacturers, educators, researchers, and community members can connect, collaborate, and drive economic growth.

    By focusing on these areas, the new building aims to support the evolving needs of advanced manufacturers and contribute to the economic vitality and innovation within our community.

  • AMICSTL will have a significant positive impact on the local economy and job market through multiple avenues:

    Job Creation: At full operation, AMICSTL anticipates it will employ approximately 75 full-time employees and numerous part-time workers. Additionally, AMICSTL and its partners will offer internships and apprenticeships, providing valuable hands-on experience and career development opportunities for students and new entrants into the workforce.

    Workforce Integration: AMICSTL will equip with advanced manufacturing skills individuals by working with partners to offer specialized training and education programs, making them highly employable and ready to meet the demands of modern and future manufacturing careers.

    Business Growth: AMICSTL will act as a catalyst for new business growth in the metro area. By fostering innovation and providing resources for research and development, AMICSTL will attract new businesses and support the expansion and growth of existing ones. This will create a ripple effect, leading to broader economic growth in sectors such as residential, retail, and small businesses.

    Entrepreneurship: AMICSTL will provide a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and startups in the manufacturing sector. Access to prototyping facilities, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities will enable entrepreneurs to develop and scale their businesses, contributing to job creation and economic diversity.

    Inclusive Economic Growth: By driving new business and attracting talent to the region, AMICSTL will promote inclusive economic growth. The benefits will extend beyond the manufacturing sector, impacting various aspects of the community, including housing, retail, and local services, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and prosperous local economy.

    By focusing on these areas, AMICSTL will not only create direct employment opportunities, but also stimulate broader economic growth and development, making a lasting positive impact on the local economy and job market.

  • Yes, the construction of the AMICSTL building will create significant employment opportunities for local residents and businesses in several ways. 

    During the building’s construction phase, there will be numerous job opportunities for construction workers, contractors, and subcontractors. However, the construction phase is just the beginning. The development of AMICSTL will stimulate the local economy by attracting new businesses and investments to the area, creating a multiplier effect that generates additional employment opportunities.

  • We are committed to being sound stewards of the environment and are taking several measures to ensure that the AMICSTL project is environmentally responsible. Some examples include:

    Certifications: We are committed to achieving LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. This certification ensures that our building meets the highest standards in sustainable design, construction, and operations.

    Sustainable Design: Our building design includes features that reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption. This includes efficient HVAC systems, high-performance insulation façade, photovoltaic cells on the roof, daylighting strategies to reduce the need for artificial lighting while cutting down on direct sunlight causing glare, electric vehicle charging stations, and energy-efficient lighting.

    Green Spaces: We will be incorporating green spaces and landscaping with a goal to support local biodiversity and provide natural cooling effects.

    Air Quality: The building will include advanced air filtration systems to ensure high indoor air quality, promoting a healthy environment for all occupants.

    By committing to these measures and more, we aim to create a facility that is not only cutting-edge, but also environmentally responsible. 

  • Yes, the new AMICSTL building will provide a variety of training and educational opportunities for community members:

    Maker Space: The facility will feature a multi-use space available to individuals, community groups, school groups, entrepreneurs, and others interested in creating, designing, and building. This space will encourage collaboration and innovation, allowing users to work on projects, learn new skills, and share knowledge.

    Tools and Resources: AMICSTL will provide access to equipment, software, and expertise with the multi-use space. This will help foster a culture of collaboration and experimentation, supporting the development of skills relevant to advanced manufacturing.

    Workforce and Talent Training: We will collaborate with workforce and talent training providers to offer programming at AMICSTL. These programs will be designed to support community members in developing the skills needed for modern manufacturing and related fields.

    Apprenticeships and Internships: AMICSTL will work with industry partners to create apprenticeships and internship opportunities. These programs will provide firsthand experience and practical training, helping to prepare individuals for future employment.

    AMICSTL aims to support the workforce and employers of tomorrow, contributing to the ongoing development and growth of our community.

  • AMICSTL is committed to working to help address the needs of the underserved community through several initiatives:

    Community Partnerships: We are actively partnering with the St. Louis Development Corporation and building relationships with numerous local community organizations, especially the Vandeventer neighborhood where we will be located. This helps us understand the unique needs and challenges faced by the communities in and around our location.

    Listening and Learning: By engaging with community members and leaders, we are committed to listening and learning how best to support and involve them in programs and initiatives.

    Career Pipeline Development: As a workforce integrator, we will be working collaboratively with community organizations to develop a robust career pipeline. This includes creating opportunities for education, training, and career advancement for individuals from historically underserved communities.

    Access to Resources: AMICSTL will provide access to equipment, software, and expertise through collaborative training programs, workshops, and hands-on learning opportunities in our multi-use space.

    Apprenticeships and Internships: AMICSTL will collaborate with industry partners to create apprenticeship and internship programs specifically targeted at underserved communities. These programs will offer practical experience and pathways to stable, well-paying jobs and careers.

    Outreach and Support: We will work with the community to implement outreach programs to raise awareness about opportunities available at AMICSTL and in advanced manufacturing throughout the bi-state metro. 

  • AMICSTL’s goal is to actively participate with local businesses and organizations to enhance community development and revitalization. By focusing on collaborative efforts, we aim to build a solid foundation for community development that delivers broad, equitable, and diverse opportunities.

  • The AMICSTL team aims to be a community partner that provides and supports employment opportunities for residents, has space for those that want to learn, design, and build, and will participate in long-term community revitalization efforts that delivers and grows inclusive opportunities.

    AMICSTL will build strong partnerships with community organizations, educational institutions, and industry leaders which will enable AMICSTL to continuously adapt and expand its impact. These collaborations will drive innovation, attract investment, and strengthen the local economy over the long term.

  • AMICSTL is dedicated to maintaining authentic engagement with the community and will undertake several efforts including:

    Building Relationships: The AMICSTL team will actively engage with community members, leaders, and organizations to build strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect. This includes engagement meetings, outreach efforts, and collaborative initiatives.

    Listening and Responding: We are committed to listening to community feedback and concerns. Through engagement meetings, one-on-one conversations, and more we will gather input to inform decisions and improve programs.

    Transparency and Communication: We will maintain transparent communication channels with the community. This includes sharing updates on our progress, projects, and programs and opportunities for community involvement.

    Open House and Facility Tours: Once operational, we will invite community members to visit AMICSTL and see firsthand what is happening inside the facility. These open house events and facility tours will foster understanding and engagement with our activities.

    AMICSTL aims to establish itself not just as a presence in the community, but as a trusted partner actively contributing to community growth and success. 

  • AMICSTL is committed to community revitalization, aiming to enhance opportunities and overall economic vitality.

    The impact of the AMICSTL facility and neighborhood changes on taxes is primarily driven by local government authorities based on broader economic factors and community needs. Improved property values resulting from revitalization efforts could lead to adjustments in property taxes, as assessed by local authorities. It is important to note that the City of St. Louis does have the Senior Property Tax Freeze Credit program for eligible seniors (please seek tax advice) which may help mitigate potential increases in property taxes due to rising property values.

  • It is anticipated that AMICSTL will have 24/7 security for its facility. The following measures will likely be included which may also benefit the surrounding neighborhood:

    Continuous Surveillance: The facility will be monitored around the clock using advanced surveillance systems. This constant vigilance can help deter criminal activity in the immediate area.

    On-Site Security Personnel: Trained security personnel will be present to ensure the safety of the facility. Their presence may also provide a sense of security to nearby residents and businesses.

    Collaboration with Local Law Enforcement: AMICSTL will work closely with local law enforcement agencies to enhance security measures and respond promptly to any incidents. This collaboration can contribute to improving safety in the neighborhood.

    Lighting and Safety Features: The campus will be well-lit and designed with safety in mind reducing the risk of criminal activity in and around the facility.

    AMICSTL aims not only to protect its facility, but also to contribute to the safety and well-being of the surrounding neighborhood and broader community.