Shipbuilding COBOT Alliance (SCA)

“CoBots and Craftsmanship: Powering the Seas”

Advanced manufacturing tools, including robotics, are seen as critical elements for the US Navy to maintain its leadership position. 

Rather than hands-off automation, shipbuilders need collaborative tools that significantly increase a worker’s productivity. Increasing the use of Collaborative Robots, or CoBots, in the shipbuilding process has the potential to revolutionize productivity in US shipyards. CoBots can perform a huge variety of tasks including but not limited to welding, repetitive tasks without fatigue or error, assembly, quality control, and more!

SCA provides training with a focus on shipbuilding-specific applications so that our graduates are immediately productive in their shipyards and will possess a minimum set of skills to be effective as CoBot operators. The center also provides hands-on practice to gain familiarity and become confident in using CoBot technologies provided from different manufacturers.

How Can the Shipbuilding CoBot Alliance (SCA) Benefit You?  

• Accelerated Workforce Training – Fast-track personnel qualification and skill development with hands-on CoBot training.
• Increased Productivity & Efficiency – Leverage CoBots to enhance manufacturing speed, precision, and consistency.
• Improved Weld Quality & Verification – Utilize fatigue test data to validate CoBot weld integrity for Navy and commercial applications.
• Access to Cutting-Edge Technology – Stay ahead with the latest CoBot advancements tailored for shipbuilding applications.
• Reduced Implementation Barriers – Get expert support in training, demonstration, and best practices for seamless CoBot integration.
• Collaborative Learning & Networking – Connect with industry leaders, suppliers, and shipyards to share knowledge and drive innovation.
• Flexible & Scalable Solutions – Develop tools, curriculum, and resources to expand training and implementation at high-need locations.
• Cost Savings – Reduce labor shortages, minimize rework, and optimize shipbuilding processes with CoBots.

What Will the Shipbuilding CoBot Alliance (SCA) Provide?

• Certification Programs – Earn industry-recognized certifications in CoBot operation, welding, and shipyard automation.
• Training & Qualification Centers – Access dedicated training cells equipped with CoBots from major vendors.
• CoBot Weld Qualification & Testing – Collect and analyze fatigue test data to validate weld quality for Navy and commercial use.
• Hands-On Training Workshops – Learn to program, operate, and integrate CoBots into shipbuilding processes.
• Open Houses & Demonstrations – Experience live CoBot applications and real-world implementation case studies.
• Implementation Support – Expert guidance on deploying CoBots for shipbuilding, repair, and supplier applications.
• Collaborative Research & Development – Contribute to improving CoBot functionality, versatility, and shipyard-specific applications.
• Curriculum & Resource Development – Freely available tools, techniques, and training materials for workforce development.
• Networking & Knowledge Sharing – Connect with industry peers, manufacturers, and suppliers to advance CoBot adoption.

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