Press Release June 17 2025

Minneapolis, MN – June 17, 2025 – With 50 engineers and machinists already enrolled before the final module launches this week, Third Wave Systems (TWS) announces the completion of Machining AdvantEdge, a training program designed to accelerate digital transformation in U.S. manufacturing teams. Developed in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the program addresses unprecedented demand for simulation-based machining skills across the industry.

“We’ve talked with leaders of major manufacturers, their suppliers, and government about the aging workforce of engineers, programmers, and machinists, and how to build the next generation of workers,” said Kerry Marusich, CEO of Third Wave Systems. “COVID and the extended grounding of several major aircraft programs accelerated this challenge by forcing layoffs and early retirement across the industry.”

The solution, according to Marusich, lies in simulation-based learning. “Simulation accelerates education by giving learners the ability to practice much more quickly than the old way of trial and error on machine testing. Doctors use simulation and so do pilots – why wouldn’t manufacturing want to use simulation as an accessible, accelerated, and increasingly more informative path to learning?”

According to the National Association of Manufacturers, over 2.1 million U.S. manufacturing jobs could go unfilled by 2030 due to skill gaps. Machining AdvantEdge addresses this challenge by making advanced simulation training accessible to a broader audience, helping manufacturers replicate the success that companies are already experiencing with Third Wave Systems’ software solutions. “Third Wave Technology greatly reduces the learning curve for engineers new to programming,” explained Jeffrey Weston, an Engineering & New Technology Manager at Polamer Precision. “The ability to identify force spikes and correct them replaces hours of trial and error at the machine.”

The online training combines flexible online modules with hands-on application of finite element modeling, toolpath validation, and material-specific machining strategies. Participants learn the principles of digital machining while gaining experience with the same simulation tools used by leading manufacturers. An optional hands-on training session at the University of St. Thomas Design Center Lab in Minnesota will also be available, with dates to be announced shortly. Both individual enrollment and group rollouts with custom learning paths are offered to meet diverse organizational needs.

Learn more or enroll at: www.machiningadvantedge.com

About Third Wave Systems | Third Wave Systems is a global leader in machining simulation technology, serving manufacturers from aerospace giants to precision machine shops worldwide. The company’s machining modeling software enables manufacturers to virtually test and optimize machining processes before cutting their first part, reducing costly trial-and-error methods. Third Wave solutions help manufacturers reduce development time by up to 50%, improve part quality, and minimize manufacturing waste across industries including aerospace, automotive, and cutting tools. 

Media Contact: Kyra Seay Third Wave Systems
[email protected] +1 952-832-5515