Building Smart Manufacturing in California and the U.S.

Accelerating AI, data-driven technologies, workforce development, and industry deployment to improve productivity, resilience, and competitiveness.

 

Get Started

Turning Innovation into Impact

Operating within UCLA’s Office of Advanced Research Computing (OARC), the BUILD SM Center delivers programs that help manufacturers adopt AI, Smart Manufacturing, and data-driven technologies. 

Through assessments, workforce development, technical assistance, and deployment support, the Center transforms strategy into practical implementation that improves productivity, resilience, and competitiveness.

A man looking at a digital screen with operational analysis on it

Built by an Industry-Aligned Ecosystem

 
Founded through a partnership between UCLA and El Camino College, the BUILD Smart Manufacturing (BUILD SM) Center serves as a collaborative platform that unites manufacturers, workforce providers, technology companies, and government agencies to accelerate digital transformation and Smart Manufacturing adoption.
 
Through a coordinated statewide ecosystem, BUILD SM delivers integrated support that advances innovation, develops workforce capabilities, and strengthens California's industrial base.

Industry Impact

14,600+
Manufacturers Reached
640+
Manufacturers Assisted
200+
SM Adoption
12,000+
Employees Trained
190+
Apprentices Placed
140
Job Placements
20+
SM/Energy Assessments
5
National Industry Studies

A Clear, Structured Path Forward

Dale Turner leading a tour

Under the leadership of Director Dale Turner, BUILD SM delivers a disciplined, execution-focused approach that guides manufacturers from initial engagement to measurable results. 

With more than 30 years of experience supporting the U.S. Department of Defense and federal agencies—and contributing to over $13 billion in awarded programs—this approach combines strategic vision with proven execution.

He previously served as Vice President of the UCLA/CESMII Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center (SMIC) Network, and has over 14 years of entrepreneurial experience in the private sector.

  1. Share Your Priorities

    Begin with our contact form so that we can begin to understand your operational goals, workforce challenges, and technology environment.

  2. Receive Structured Guidance

    Work with experienced professionals to help determine your next steps that are built around your business — not a generic template.

  3. Move into Action


    Implement practical improvements with coordinated support at a pace that works for your operation.

Connect with the BUILD SM Team

 
There is no obligation and no commitment required — just a focused discussion about your priorities and what a realistic path forward looks like for your operation.
 
As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve through maturing technologies, success will increasingly depend on coordinated ecosystems, workforce transformation, resilient supply chains, and data-driven operations. BUILD SM is designed to deliver that future today.
 

Get Started