Wayne State University Partners with Kyndryl to Launch IntelliMake Research Hub in Detroit
Wayne State University, a leading urban public research institution, has announced a multi-year collaboration with Kyndryl (NYSE: KD), a premier provider of mission-critical enterprise technology services, to establish the IntelliMake research hub. This initiative will create a pilot-scale factory located within the James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering at Wayne State University, focusing on advancing artificial intelligence in manufacturing.
Objectives of the IntelliMake Research Hub
The IntelliMake hub aims to co-develop and showcase intelligent and agentic AI manufacturing technologies on campus. Through this partnership, Kyndryl and Wayne State will:
- Demonstrate intelligent AI solutions through practical applications.
- Host workshops covering topics such as AI, cybersecurity, and digital twins.
- Create demonstration pods within the IntelliMake lab to display various AI-driven projects.
This initiative comes at a critical time, as Kyndryl's 2025 Readiness Report reveals that 87% of leaders anticipate AI will reshape jobs within the next year, yet only 29% believe their workforce is adequately prepared.
Transforming Manufacturing through Technology
Kyndryl's SVP & Managing Director, Onofrio Pirrotta, highlighted the need for proactive change in manufacturing organizations, stating, "Despite significant advances in automation, many manufacturing operations remain rigid, siloed, and reactive." The collaboration aims to replace outdated automation methods with resilient, people-centered innovations by integrating technology, processes, and personnel.
Dr. Ali Abolmaali, dean of the James and Patricia Anderson College of Engineering, emphasized Wayne State's unique position in addressing manufacturing and workforce challenges: "IntelliMake exemplifies our commitment to advancing AI, automation, and education — while preparing engineers for the factories of the future."
Phase One: Advanced Computing and Modular Orchestration
The first phase of the IntelliMake initiative will incorporate advanced computing alongside modular orchestration, demonstrating how intelligent agents can adapt to and recover from operational disruptions. Key features will include:
- Reduction of scrap and rework.
- Enhanced quality control.
- Empowerment of workers through responsive tools and real-time insights.
Kyndryl will play a pivotal role in implementing these systems through technologies like Kyndryl Bridge, facilitating comprehensive monitoring and management of the intricate infrastructure supporting the mock assembly line.
Aiming for Leadership in Smart Manufacturing
The overarching mission of IntelliMake is to position Detroit and Michigan at the forefront of the estimated $10 trillion smart manufacturing opportunity, where AI agents, robotics, and digital twins contribute to self-optimizing and reconfigurable factories. This collaboration was made possible through contributions from various departments at Wayne State University, including the Office of the Provost and the Division of Research and Innovation.
About Wayne State University
Wayne State University is recognized as one of the nation's leading public research universities situated in an urban environment. The institution's multidisciplinary approach, coupled with partnerships across government and industry, aims to foster economic growth while enhancing the quality of life locally and globally.
About Kyndryl
Kyndryl (NYSE: KD) is the world's largest IT infrastructure services provider, delivering critical enterprise technology services in over 60 countries. The company specializes in advisory, implementation, and managed services, helping clients design, build, and manage complex information systems essential for daily operations.
For more information on Kyndryl, visit www.kyndryl.com.