NextFlex partners with Auburn Engineering for new regional hybrid electronics node
By Jeremy Henderson
Auburn Engineering is expanding its leadership in harsh-environment electronics with the establishment of a new statewide hub focused on advanced electronics packaging and manufacturing.
In partnership with NextFlex and the state of Alabama, Auburn will lead the Alabama Node, a regional center designed to accelerate research, technology transition and workforce development in flexible hybrid electronics.
The initiative aims to strengthen U.S. manufacturing competitiveness while providing companies across Alabama with access to advanced facilities, equipment and expertise.
Flexible hybrid electronics combine traditional semiconductor components with flexible materials, enabling systems that are lighter, more adaptable and capable of operating in extreme conditions such as aerospace, automotive and defense environments.
The Alabama Node will support adoption of hybrid electronics design, development and manufacturing, while expanding workforce programs such as FlexFactor and FlexFactor Pro. The goal is to lower barriers for companies — particularly small- and medium-sized manufacturers — to integrate advanced electronics into their products and processes.
The initiative builds on Auburn’s more than 25-year legacy in electronics packaging research and was announced during the NextFlex Workshop on Automotive and Aerospace Flexible Hybrid Electronics, held at the Auburn University Research and Innovation Campus in Huntsville.
Federal, state and local leaders attended, highlighting the importance of advanced electronics manufacturing to the region and the nation.
“The establishment of the NextFlex Alabama Node at Auburn represents a major milestone in our long-standing commitment to advancing electronics manufacturing and innovation,” said Steve Taylor, senior vice president for research and economic development.
Pradeep Lall, the MacFarlane Distinguished Professor in mechanical engineering and director of Auburn’s Electronics Packaging Research Institute, will lead the Alabama Node.
“Hybrid electronics are transforming industries like automotive and aerospace, enabling lighter, more efficient and more reliable systems,” Lall said. “Through the Alabama Node, Auburn will help drive the innovations that make those technologies possible while training the workforce to sustain U.S. manufacturing leadership.”
NextFlex Executive Director Dan Gamota said Auburn’s leadership expands the institute’s national network across the Southeast.
Researchers