The Island Imperative: Hawaii's Critical Dependency
Hawaii's geographic isolation makes it uniquely vulnerable to disruptions in the global supply chain. A potential blockade or crisis could severely limit access to essential goods.
90%
of all goods are imported, including over 90% of its food and energy.
80%
of the state's critical infrastructure parts are sourced from overseas.
This high level of dependency underscores the urgent need for a robust, localized manufacturing capability to ensure resilience in times of crisis.
Hawaii's Existing 3D Printing Ecosystem
Hawaii is already home to a growing ecosystem of academic, commercial, and military entities with significant 3D printing capabilities. These existing assets form the foundation of our resilience strategy.
Key Player Capabilities & Focus
Local institutions provide a range of services from research and development in advanced materials to rapid prototyping for defense and medical industries.
Key Strategic Initiatives
To bolster our self-sufficiency, the plan focuses on several key initiatives designed to expand our manufacturing base, secure local resources, and prepare our workforce.
Workforce Development
Establish advanced training programs in partnership with the University of Hawaii and military institutions to build a skilled local workforce for 3D printing operations.
Mobile Printing Units
Deploy containerized, rapid-response 3D printing systems (like XSPEE3D) to key locations, enabling on-demand production of critical parts during emergencies.
Local Material Sourcing
Develop capabilities for sourcing and processing local raw materials, including recycled plastics (PET) and locally mined metals, to create a circular supply chain.
Roadmap to Resilience: A 4-Step Action Plan
A coordinated effort is required to transform these initiatives into a functional, statewide resilience network. The following steps outline the path forward.
Establish State Resilience Task Force
Led by DBEDT, this task force will coordinate infrastructure development and emergency preparedness among government, academic, and military partners.
Leverage & Expand DoD Partnerships
Deepen collaboration with the Navy and Army to deploy mobile 3D printing units across Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, focusing on dual-use applications.
Enact Legislative Preparedness
Pre-draft emergency legislation to streamline permitting and secure funding for 3D printing facilities, enabling a rapid and decisive response in a crisis.
Drive Community Engagement
Launch public awareness campaigns to engage local communities, highlighting the benefits of job creation and enhanced resilience to foster support.