Advancing A Legacy of Innovation
The Hub for Advanced Manufacturing and Research (HAMR), part of the the Wichita State
University's National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR), is a premier 170,000 square foot research, development and training facility powering the
next wave of innovation in emerging technology, advanced materials, digital twin,
advanced machining, additive manufacturing, automated fiber placement, and factory
automation.
The Future of Manufacturing and Research Starts Here
At NIAR, global innovation meets a world-class workforce and manufacturing ecosystem. Located in Wichita, Kansas - the Air Capital of the World - NIAR's HAMR is purpose-built to support next-generation research, development, production, and training across critical domains, including:
HAMR isn’t just a building—it’s a regional catalyst to accelerate innovation, enabling organizations to prototype faster, validate smarter, and manufacture better. From startups to OEMs, the capabilities available at HAMR provide the infrastructure, expertise and environment to turn ideas into reality.
A Regional Investment in Smart Manufacturing
HAMR was made possible by the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) Build Back Better Regional Challenge through the South Kansas Region’s Driving Adoption: Smart Manufacturing Technologies initiative, with co‑investment from Wichita State University. This effort accelerates adoption of smart manufacturing among small and medium‑sized businesses, building a more resilient, diversified advanced manufacturing hub for the region.
The funding awarded in 2022 has allowed South Kansas, led by Wichita State University, to strengthen capabilities and expertise at NIAR and WSU Tech. Efforts include:
- Hiring of specialized staff
- Procurement of advanced equipment
- Development of new curriculum and training spaces
- Creation of a new headquarters building to anchor future activity
South Kansas’ efforts focus on Additive Manufacturing, Advanced Machining, Automated Fiber Placement (AFP), and Smart Factory Training—all of which will have dedicated space within HAMR.
