News

Attendees raised concerns ranging from day-to-day operational hurdles—like transportation and logistics challenges—to broader systemic issues such as talent pipelines and regulatory navigation.

For Rhode Island manufacturers—many of whom rely on imported materials, components, or equipment—refunds could translate into thousands (or more) in returned funds, potentially including interest.

Last week was National Apprenticeship Week and in recognition, Polaris MEP is excited to spotlight new opportunities for manufacturers to strengthen their workforce through Registered Apprenticeships.

In today’s rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, one challenge continues to rise above the rest: the growing skills gap. One of the most powerful solutions? Apprenticeships.

Fire protection in warehouses is not just about sprinklers; it requires ongoing planning, training, and practice to maintain system effectiveness. The best way to address common issues is by embedding fire safety into facility culture.

NIST scientists have developed a new process for packaging photonic integrated circuits so they can survive and operate in some of the most extreme environments imaginable.

Open positions far outnumber available candidates… at least among the traditional talent pool. The good news is that the labor pool is deeper than most think. By looking beyond the usual candidates and tapping into overlooked populations, warehouses can not only fill jobs but also boost retention, productivity and even safety.

AI is quickly becoming a key area of exploration for many businesses. However, understanding how companies are actually using—or planning to use—AI is critical to ensuring the right support and resources are available.

This premier event brings together innovators, industry leaders, government stakeholders, and researchers to showcase cutting-edge maritime and dual-use technologies through live, mission-driven demonstrations.

Rhode Island’s vibrant food ecosystem has fostered many food manufacturing startups, but few are growing to become larger businesses with significant sales and employment. This research explores why food businesses often plateau and identifies the challenges they face in transitioning from startups to second-stage businesses.

The 2025 report combines multiple sources, including industry trend analysis, the Voice of Manufacturing Survey (VOMS), and insights from manufacturers, policymakers, and community leaders.

This integrated solution helps manufacturers achieve measurable and sustainable improvements in productivity, quality, and workforce effectiveness by addressing both the technical and human sides of operations.

Chris Cinieri, Polaris MEP Project Manager, helped Nterprisers develop their new Marketplace to help meet manufacturers’s needs.

The project responds to Rhode Island’s acute manufacturing workforce shortage by strengthening the talent pipeline while opening access to high-wage, high-demand careers for individuals who have been historically excluded from opportunity.

By standardizing how biological and chemical changes are measured in space, the mission supports recent U.S. policy goals to strengthen leadership in the space sector and opens the door for more reliable, data-driven innovation in areas like pharmaceuticals, climate science, and advanced materials.

Polaris MEP seeks proposals from training providers for job training and support services targeting adults seeking full-time, livable-wage employment in the Advanced Manufacturing, Marine Trades, and Blue Economy sectors.