The Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence (CDME) is a leader in additive manufacturing research, combining state-of-the-art equipment, industry partnerships, and expert engineering talent to tackle complex manufacturing challenges. CDME gives students hands-on experience integrating new technologies. With capabilities spanning metal and polymer 3D printing, design optimization, material characterization, and qualification testing. Its collaborative approach accelerates technology adoption, advances manufacturing science, and empowers the next generation of skilled engineers.