WILMINGTON, NC – February 6, 2025 ( NEWMEDIAWIRE ) – Protocase and its subsidiary, 45Drives, have announced a new strategic partnership with the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) College of Science and Engineering to enhance research opportunities and provide students with hands-on training in advanced manufacturing and open-source data storage. This collaboration will not only open potential employment pathways for students in high-tech industries but also strengthen workforce development in the region.
Through this partnership, students and faculty at UNCW will gain access to cutting-edge technology and resources, enabling them to work alongside industry experts on groundbreaking research and development projects. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to participate in internships that provide invaluable real-world experience, preparing them to compete in today’s rapidly evolving job market.
“As Protocase continues its expansion into the United States, we recognize the immense value of investing in the future workforce,” said Steve Lilley, Co-founder and President of Protocase. “Our collaboration with UNCW will not only provide students with unparalleled access to state-of-the-art technology but also ensure that we are fostering the next generation of innovators who will drive the industry forward.”
The initiative will create direct career opportunities for students interested in open-source data storage solutions through 45Drives, Protocase’s subsidiary. 45Drives is known for its innovative, scalable and open-source approach to data storage, serving clients in government, academia, and enterprise sectors worldwide.
“Open-source technology is shaping the future of data storage, and we’re thrilled to help prepare UNCW students to be at the forefront of this revolution,” said Dr. Doug Milburn, Co-founder and President of 45Drives. “We believe that by giving students hands-on experience with our technologies, we can empower them to tackle the complex challenges of the digital age with confidence and expertise.”
UNCW’s College of Science and Engineering sees this partnership as an opportunity to align its educational programs with the needs of the technology industry, helping to create a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet the demands of local employers.
“This partnership underscores the UNC Wilmington College of Science and Engineering’s commitment to workforce development in the region,” said Dr. Ron Vetter, Founding Dean of the College. “By working with leading industry partners like Protocase and 45Drives, we are providing students with opportunities to gain critical experience and build successful careers in technology and engineering.”
With this partnership, Protocase, 45Drives, and UNCW are paving the way for a new generation of skilled professionals in greater Eastern North Carolina and beyond who will help shape the future of manufacturing, engineering, and data storage.
About Protocase
Protocase Inc. is a leading innovator in the rapid manufacturing and prototyping industry, specializing in the production of custom electronic enclosures and precision metal components for aerospace, defense, and technology sectors. Founded in 2001, the company has built a reputation for speed, flexibility, and precision, serving over 18,000 clients worldwide, including NASA, Tesla, MIT, and AWS. With its expansion into the U.S., Protocase is further solidifying its position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing. Protocase is the parent company of 45Drives, ProtoSpace Mfg, and Protomentum.
About 45Drives
45Drives is a pioneer in open-source, high-performance data storage solutions, providing scalable and cost-effective alternatives to proprietary systems. With a strong focus on innovation and community-driven development, 45Drives supports enterprise, government, and research institutions worldwide with cutting-edge, open-source storage technologies.
About the University of North Carolina Wilmington
UNC Wilmington, the state’s coastal university, is dedicated to the integration of teaching and mentoring with research and service. The university serves nearly 19,000 students and offers a full range of undergraduate and graduate-level programs, as well as select doctoral programs that address state needs. Learn more at www.uncw.edu.
Contact:
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