10X by 2027: Advancing Additive Manufacturing in Kansas Through Collaboration

Kansas is on an ambitious path: to increase additive manufacturing (AM) capacity tenfold by 2027. This effort goes far beyond expanding machine counts or material capabilities, it’s about reshaping how we innovate, produce, and sustain critical systems for national security. But 10X by 2027 isn’t a goal any single organization can achieve alone. It requires a shared vision and collective effort from industry, academia, and government partners across the state and beyond. As General Patton famously said, "this individual heroic stuff is pure horseshit." Real progress demands collaboration.

At OnRamp Hub: Kansas, our mission is to accelerate defense innovation by spotlighting and supporting the work of our partners across the state. One of the most impactful initiatives underway is the Workbench for Additive Materials (WAM), led by the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) in partnership with the Department of Defense. WAM is helping to drive AM adoption at scale by standardizing qualification frameworks, improving data sharing, and streamlining production. Rather than siloed advancements, WAM creates an integrated, collaborative ecosystem, ensuring breakthroughs in Kansas contribute to a broader national impact.

The real challenge in scaling AM isn’t just technical, it’s cultural. Organizations often work in isolation, slowing the speed of adoption and innovation. By backing initiatives like WAM and fostering cross-sector collaboration, OnRamp Hub: Kansas is helping to break down those barriers. The research, knowledge, and momentum being built here are meant to be shared and scaled, strengthening the defense innovation community nationwide.

Why does this matter? Because AM is critical to the defense and aerospace sectors, enabling rapid prototyping, faster sustainment solutions, and the on-demand production of mission critical parts. A tenfold increase in AM capacity means reduced lead times, lower costs, and a more responsive, resilient industrial base. 10X by 2027 isn’t just about hitting a number, it’s about ensuring Kansas plays a defining role in the future of defense manufacturing.

We’re proud to support and showcase the organizations leading this transformation. But we know it takes all of us. Whether you're an engineer, executive, policymaker, or researcher, your contribution is essential. Join us in building something bigger than any one organization because this isn't just about additive manufacturing. It’s about shaping a national movement, rooted in Kansas, with far-reaching impact.

Together, we’re building the future of AM—right here in Kansas.