Minneapolis, MN – June 17, 2025 – With 50 engineers and machinists already enrolled before the final
module launches this week, Third Wave Systems (TWS) announces the completion of Machining
AdvantEdge, a training program designed to accelerate digital transformation in U.S. manufacturing
teams. Developed in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), the program addresses
unprecedented demand for simulation-based machining skills across the industry.

"We've talked with leaders of major manufacturers, their suppliers, and government about the aging
workforce of engineers, programmers, and machinists, and how to build the next generation of workers,"
said Kerry Marusich, CEO of Third Wave Systems. "COVID and the extended grounding of several major
aircraft programs accelerated this challenge by forcing layoffs and early retirement across the industry."

The solution, according to Marusich, lies in simulation-based learning. "Simulation accelerates education
by giving learners the ability to practice much more quickly than the old way of trial and error on
machine testing. Doctors use simulation and so do pilots – why wouldn't manufacturing want to use
simulation as an accessible, accelerated, and increasingly more informative path to learning?"

According to the National Association of Manufacturers, over 2.1 million U.S. manufacturing jobs could
go unfilled by 2030 due to skill gaps. Machining AdvantEdge addresses this challenge by making
advanced simulation training accessible to a broader audience, helping manufacturers replicate the
success that companies are already experiencing with Third Wave Systems' software solutions.

"Third Wave Technology greatly reduces the learning curve for engineers new to programming,"
explained Jeffrey Weston, an Engineering & New Technology Manager at Polamer Precision. "The ability
to identify force spikes and correct them replaces hours of trial and error at the machine."

The online training combines flexible online modules with hands-on application of finite element
modeling, toolpath validation, and material-specific machining strategies. Participants learn the principles
of digital machining while gaining experience with the same simulation tools used by leading
manufacturers. An optional hands-on training session at the University of St. Thomas Design Center Lab
in Minnesota will also be available, with dates to be announced shortly. Both individual enrollment and
group rollouts with custom learning paths are offered to meet diverse organizational needs.

Learn more or enroll at: www.machiningadvantedge.com