Statement on $320 Million Investment in Digital Lab, Creating High-Tech Manufacturing Jobs
Washington, D.C.– Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky released the following statement after attending President Barack Obama’s announcement of a $320 Million Investment in Digital Lab, creating high-tech manufacturing jobs in Illinois.
“I commend the Obama Administration for choosing the UI Labs of Chicago for a very significant investment into the high-tech manufacturing sector through the Digital Lab for Manufacturing. The proposal, led by the University of Illinois, with the help of Governor Pat Quinn, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, the Illinois Congressional Delegation, and other academic and business partners will help create good manufacturing jobs and expand economic growth through the use of cutting edge technologies. This investment will help Chicago lead the 21st century manufacturing renaissance.
“The Digital Lab is an applied research institute that will develop manufacturing technology and commercialize these technologies across industries. The Department of Defense awarded Digital Lab $70 million, and with that investment an additional $250 million has been promised from other government entities, businesses, academic institutions and community groups.
“This type of public-private partnership demonstrates how innovative collaboration can lead to high-paying jobs and quality access to technology for manufacturers. As the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, I am a strong supporter of public-private investments to develop our workforce and increase America’s competitive advantage in the field of manufacturing. We should continue to make these types of investments in order to have a diverse economy that increases job opportunities for American workers and keeps the United States as a leader in global manufacturing.”