CANTON, MS – Innovative manufacturing minds took center stage on Friday, March 7, at the SmartTech MS Advanced Manufacturing Prize Competition, where groundbreaking solutions designed to revolutionize the industry were honored. The competition awarded $35,000 in prizes to cutting-edge technologies that enhance efficiency, optimize processes, and redefine the future of manufacturing in Mississippi.
RebornC was named the Mississippi Advanced Manufacturing Champion, securing the $25,000 grand prize for its transformative approach to recycling plastics into durable carbon heaters using additive manufacturing. Co-founders Dr. Zhe Qiang and Dr. Mark Robertson developed this proprietary process to support AI-driven digital manufacturing, lower capital costs, and enable decentralized production.
SyndSync was named Mississippi Advanced Manufacturing Innovator and earned the $10,000 second-place prize. Founded by Joe Garner and Michael Giuliano, SyndSync is a no-code SaaS platform that seamlessly integrates data across business systems, creating a Single Source of Truth. With the ability to provide a 360-degree view of operations and customers, its potential impact on manufacturing efficiency and productivity is game-changing.
Dr. Tonya McCall welcomed attendees to the Mississippi State University CAVS Extension facility she runs, where the awards ceremony occurred. Dr. Julie Jordan, vice president for research and economic development for Mississippi State University, also spoke at the event, highlighting the role of SmartTech MS in fostering innovation and the significance of advanced manufacturing as a competitive advantage for Mississippi.
The SmartTech MS Advanced Manufacturing Prize Competition catalyzes the development of next-generation manufacturing technologies, connecting entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and technology enthusiasts. The event recognizes outstanding achievements and fosters a community committed to pushing the boundaries of industrial innovation.
For more information about the SmartTech MS and its initiatives, visit https://cavse.msstate.edu/media/details.php?id=304.
Innovate Mississippi is a nonprofit organization that drives innovation and technology-based economic development for the State of Mississippi. Learn more at innovate.ms.
