Manufacturing Works

What Manufacturing Works does

Manufacturing Works is Wyoming's designated NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Center, operating as a non-profit public-private partnership among the University of Wyoming, the Wyoming Business Council, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology since 2019. Headquartered in Laramie with a regional representative network distributed across the state, the organization provides eight core consulting service lines to Wyoming manufacturers at no direct cost to clients: Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (Industry 4.0 transition), Business Health Assessment, Continuous Improvement (Lean/Six Sigma), Cybersecurity (including NIST 800-171/DFARS), ISO & Quality Management, Prototyping, Supply Chain Optimization, and Workforce Development & Training. Notable technology assets include an Industry 4.0 demonstration lab at Impact 307 in Cheyenne featuring a Glowforge 3D laser printer and co-bots, and the CONNEX Wyoming digital platform (launched September 2022 with i5 Services) that connects Wyoming manufacturers and suppliers via a B2B exchange.

The organization is funded through federal NIST MEP appropriations, Wyoming Business Council state support, University of Wyoming in-kind contributions, and pass-through grants (e.g., Wyoming Department of Workforce Services training grants, Wyoming Business Council certification grants). Services are delivered by approximately seven staff including a Director, Assistant Director, two Account & Project Managers, a Project Manager, Senior Project Coordinator, and Business Manager, supported by a third-party training provider network (The Effective Syndicate for Lean Six Sigma, BlackFox for IPC soldering, Core Business Solutions for ISO 9001, CS Consulting for safety, 4th State Communications for cybersecurity). The team holds specialized credentials including Registered Professional Engineer and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certifications.

Manufacturing Works serves Wyoming manufacturers of every size, from individual entrepreneurs and small machine shops to mid-market industrial firms and large enterprises such as Brunton, L&H Industrial, and Red River. According to its 2023 NIST impact metrics report, the organization scored a perfect 100 on NIST's impact evaluation, with cumulative client outcomes including 471 jobs created/retained, $64.3M in new sales, $10.8M in client capital investment, and $6.7M in cost savings. The organization is not a commercial entity in the traditional sense and does not disclose revenue.

Name

Manufacturing Works

Legal name

Manufacturing Works

Website

https://manufacturing-works.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2019

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Manufacturing Works is Wyoming's NIST MEP Center, a non-profit partnership with the University of Wyoming and Wyoming Business Council that delivers free consulting, training, and prototyping services to Wyoming manufacturers. It also operates CONNEX Wyoming, a B2B supplier-connectivity platform.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Manufacturing Consulting Services

akta.pro primary industry

Consulting, Advisory & Technology Transfer (AM Adoption) (IMAAAJAK)

akta.pro secondary industries

Professional Training & Workforce Upskilling (AM) (IMAAAJAC), Conferences, Workshops & Industry Events (AM Knowledge Sharing) (IMAAAJAL)

Keywords

• Manufacturing consulting services
• Industry 4.0 transition
• Lean Six Sigma training
• ISO certification support
• Workforce development

Headquarters

HQ city

Laramie

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. NIST MEP Federal Funding: As Wyoming's NIST MEP Center, Manufacturing Works receives federal funding through the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership program to provide services to Wyoming manufacturers at no direct cost to clients.
2. Wyoming Business Council State Funding: State funding support through the Wyoming Business Council and Wyoming Innovation Partnership for operations and specific programs including cost-share grants for manufacturers.
3. University of Wyoming Partnership: Operates as part of the University of Wyoming's Business Resource Network, providing access to university resources, facilities, and research capabilities.
4. Grant-Funded Client Services: Services to manufacturers are funded through various grants including Wyoming Department of Workforce Services training grants and Wyoming Business Council certification grants, eliminating direct costs for participating manufacturers.

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

Manufacturing Works is Wyoming's NIST MEP Center providing free consulting and technical assistance to Wyoming manufacturers across eight service lines: Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (Industry 4.0), Business Health Assessment, Continuous Improvement, Cybersecurity, ISO and Quality Management, Prototyping, Supply Chain Optimization, and Workforce Development & Training. Services are delivered through regional representatives positioned statewide and supported by the CONNEX Wyoming online connectivity platform.

Product overview

Manufacturing Works is Wyoming's NIST MEP Center that provides consulting and support services to Wyoming manufacturers. The organization offers a portfolio of eight core consulting services: Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (Industry 4.0 transition), Business Health Assessment, Continuous Improvement, Cybersecurity, ISO and Quality Management, Prototyping, Supply Chain Optimization, and Workforce Development & Training. These services are delivered through their regional representatives positioned throughout Wyoming, drawing on their team expertise and network of resources including the MEP National Network and Wyoming Business Resource Network. Additionally, they operate CONNEX Wyoming, a free online manufacturer database and connectivity platform launched in September 2022 to strengthen local and domestic manufacturing supply chains.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Advanced Manufacturing Technologies Industry 4.0 technology services including Additive Manufacturing/3D Printing, Automation, Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, Cloud Manufacturing, Cyber-Physical Systems, Cobots, Augmented and Virtual Reality, Simulation, and System Integration to help Wyoming manufacturers transition from Industry 2.0/3.0 to Industry 4.0.
• Business Health Assessment A 54-question anonymous online assessment for senior leadership evaluating six key business areas (Strategy, Structure, People Systems, Work Methods, Lateral Processes, and Metrics), delivered with a customized project plan for Wyoming manufacturers.
• Continuous Improvement Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma consulting services focused on creating maximal productivity with minimal waste, including process optimization, waste identification, value stream mapping, and operational efficiency improvements for Wyoming manufacturers.
• Cybersecurity NIST Cybersecurity Framework-based services including configuration and vulnerability management, cryptography, identity and access management, risk management, and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) cybersecurity requirements compliance for Department of Defense supply chain manufacturers.
• ISO and Quality Management ISO certification services including AS9100 for aerospace, ISO 9001 audits, implementation, and training, helping Wyoming manufacturers achieve credibility, process control, and communication standards required for new contract opportunities.
• Prototyping Product design and development services including 3-D printing, conceptual prototyping, prototype testing, finishing and painting, hardware prototyping, and material durability testing for Wyoming manufacturers and inventors.
• Supply Chain Optimization MEP National Network Supplier Scouting program that connects Wyoming manufacturers with U.S. companies for hard-to-find products and supply needs, including high-demand categories like electronics, glass, integrated circuits, metals, and plastics.
• Workforce Development & Training Training services including Leadership Training, Lean Six Sigma certification, Safety/OSHA Training, Sales Training, Solder Training (IPC 610 Certified levels), and Tailored Training Solutions for workforce upskilling at Wyoming manufacturers.
• CONNEX Wyoming A free online manufacturer database and connectivity platform that enables Wyoming manufacturers to connect with suppliers, find local suppliers, discover new business opportunities, manage supply chains, and access a B2B Exchange Center for posting requests for information and quotations.

Quantifiable outcome

• 471 jobs created or retained for Wyoming manufacturers
• +7 more outcomes

Named customers17 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles2 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature4 records

Partnerships

18 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• i5 Services (CONNEX Marketplace)coreTechnology or Integration · 29 September 2022CONNEX Marketplace technology developed by i5 Services connects U.S. manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers. Wyoming is the ninth state to implement this platform, managed by Manufacturing Works as CONNEX Wyoming.
• University of WyomingcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerManufacturing Works is a member of the University of Wyoming's Business Resource Network. The partnership provides access to university research capabilities, facilities, and student resources. Manufacturing Works is physically located at UW and benefits from university infrastructure and academic partnerships.
• Wyoming Business CouncilcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerState economic development agency that supports Manufacturing Works operations and helps secure cost-share grants for Wyoming manufacturers seeking certifications like ISO 9001. Jointly funds workforce training grants and certification programs.
• NIST MEP National NetworkcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerManufacturing Works is Wyoming's designated NIST MEP Center, part of a national network delivering comprehensive solutions to U.S. manufacturers. This partnership provides access to federal funding, best practices, and thousands of manufacturing experts across the country.
• Wyoming Innovation PartnershipminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerState initiative supporting innovation and economic development that collaborates with Manufacturing Works on initiatives like CONNEX Wyoming.
• Wyoming SBDC (Small Business Development Center)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerPart of the network of America's Small Business Development Centers. Collaborates on Data Privacy Week initiatives and shares resources for Wyoming businesses.
• CyberWyoming AllianceminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCybersecurity organization that collaborates with Manufacturing Works on Data Privacy Week initiatives and cybersecurity awareness programs for Wyoming manufacturers.
• Community Builders Inc.minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerNonprofit organization collaborating on Data Privacy Week initiatives, particularly focusing on strengthening privacy protections for local governments and constituents.
• Impact 307minorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerBusiness incubator at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne that houses Manufacturing Works' Industry 4.0 lab, providing demonstration and training facilities.
• The Effective SyndicatecoreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerThird-party training provider delivering Kaizen workshops and Lean Six Sigma training to Wyoming manufacturers. Manufacturing Works organizes workshops tailored to client operational goals in collaboration with this partner.
• BlackFoxcoreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerTraining provider that delivered comprehensive soldering training program with IPC 610 certifications for Pertech Industries and other Riverton manufacturers, funded by Wyoming Department of Workforce Services grant.
• CS ConsultingminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerSafety consulting firm that Manufacturing Works connects with Schlagel Manufacturing for organizational safety improvements.
• Core Business SolutionscoreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerISO 9001 consulting vendor that Manufacturing Works connects Wyoming manufacturers with for certification support. Multiple clients (HCI, Wyoming Completion Technologies) achieved ISO certification through this partnership.
• 4th State CommunicationscoreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerWyoming-based cybersecurity expert with expertise in DOD contracts and government policy. Connected by Manufacturing Works to assist L&H Industrial with NIST 800-171 self-assessment and DLA compliance.
• MakerSpace307coreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerRiverton-based maker space that collaborated with Manufacturing Works to provide 3D printing and prototyping services. Initial prototypes for TITUS Wastewater Solutions were printed using FDM machines at MakerSpace307.
• Pertech Industries Inc.minorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRiverton-based electronic and contract manufacturer that became a Brunton supplier through Manufacturing Works' supply chain scouting. Also collaborates on 3D printing production for other clients.
• Legacy MoldingminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRiverton-based injection molding company identified by Manufacturing Works as a Brunton supplier as part of reshoring efforts.
• HiVizminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorLaramie-based sight manufacturer identified as a Brunton supplier through Manufacturing Works' supplier scouting efforts.

Scale indicators9 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Direct peers

• Catalyst Connection: Pennsylvania's NIST MEP Center offering manufacturing consulting, workforce development, and quality systems support. Same federal-state partnership funding model and very similar service taxonomy as Manufacturing Works.
• TechHelp: Regional MEP serving manufacturers in Idaho, Nevada, and Utah with Lean, quality, and workforce training services. Same NIST MEP funding model and similar operational scale to Manufacturing Works.
• CMTC (California Manufacturing Technology Consulting): California's NIST MEP Center, delivering the same comprehensive suite of consulting, training, and supplier-scouting services to manufacturers. Directly comparable in business model, federal designation, and service portfolio — the only difference is the state served.
• Impact Washington: Washington state's NIST MEP Center providing Lean/continuous improvement, workforce training, and supplier scouting. Same MEP designation structure, similar small-team delivery model, and analogous focus on helping regional manufacturers compete globally.
• MAGNET (Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network): Cleveland-based MEP-affiliated manufacturing innovation organization providing Industry 4.0 consulting, workforce training, and supplier development. Comparable in mission and the mix of consulting-plus-training services for a regional manufacturing base.
• WMEP (Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership): Wisconsin's NIST MEP Center offering Lean, ISO, growth services, and workforce solutions to manufacturers. Identical federally designated structure and comparable service mix to Manufacturing Works.
• IMEC (Illinois Manufacturing Extension Center): Illinois's NIST MEP Center providing strategic growth, workforce, and operational excellence services. Same federally designated model and analogous mid-sized state footprint.

Regional players

• Rochester Manufacturing Initiative (RMI): Regional MEP-affiliated organization serving manufacturers in upstate New York with continuous improvement and workforce services. Comparable in mission and small-team service delivery, though serving a different geography than Manufacturing Works.

Others

• Core Business Solutions: An ISO 9001/AS9100 consulting vendor that Manufacturing Works already partners with for client certifications. Adjacent ecosystem participant — provides the underlying ISO certification methodology that Manufacturing Works delivers to Wyoming manufacturers.
• NIST MEP (National Program Office): The federal parent program of the MEP National Network of which Manufacturing Works is a member. Not a competitor — it sets standards, channels federal funding, and curates best practices for Manufacturing Works and its 50 state/regional MEP center peers.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks7 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/manufacturing-works
• Instagraminstagram.com/manufacturingworks

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles7 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Manufacturing Works