The collaboration between Protocase, ProtoSpace Mfg, and 45Drives has culminated in the establishment of a new 11,000-square-foot production and assembly facility in Wilmington, North Carolina, signaling a robust expansion of their manufacturing operations within the United States. This strategic move is set to bolster local production capabilities and generate employment opportunities, underscoring the companies' commitment to fostering domestic technology and engineering sectors. The facility, located in the Maritime North Business Park, will be officially unveiled during an open house event on March 27, 2025, inviting industry partners and local stakeholders to witness the dawn of a new era in manufacturing innovation.
Dr. Doug Milburn, Co-founder of Protocase and President of 45Drives, highlighted the significance of this expansion, pointing to the advantages of local manufacturing and the potential for job creation in the region. The event will serve as a platform for engagement with key industry figures, including representatives from North Carolina for Military Employment, Bank of America, and Wilmington Business Development, alongside local educational institutions, to explore the synergies between the new facility and the broader economic ecosystem.
Further enriching the initiative, Dr. Milburn is scheduled to share his insights on innovation strategies at the University of North Carolina Wilmington's Cameron School of Business. His presentation, titled "How to do Innovation in Paradise", draws on his 35 years of experience in manufacturing, engineering, and software development, offering valuable perspectives on scaling technology businesses outside traditional innovation hubs.
The new Wilmington facility represents a concerted effort by Protocase, ProtoSpace Mfg, and 45Drives to enhance their service offerings, operational efficiency, and contribution to the regional economy. Specializing in custom manufacturing, electronic enclosures, and data storage solutions, the companies are poised to leverage this expansion to meet growing customer demands while showcasing the viability of innovative manufacturing in emerging technological landscapes.
