Admiral Mullen joins Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc. as strategic advisor

Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc. is pleased to announce that Admiral Mike Mullen (ret. USN) and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has joined as Strategic Advisor. This appointment underscores Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc.'s commitment to expanding its influence in the aerospace and defense markets and accelerating its industrial base that is increasingly reliant on advanced metal additive manufacturing (AM) technologies.

Nikon has recently established its California-based subsidiary, Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc., to better serve these critical markets. The company merges the strengths of its Nikon SLM Solutions unit, a pioneer in Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) technology, with its organic Directed Energy Deposition (DED) products and the capabilities of its ultra-secure facilities in Long Beach, California. This successful integration positions Nikon to deliver unparalleled value to the aerospace and defense sectors, and to accelerate the global adoption of metal AM solutions.

Admiral Mullen will contribute significantly to Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc., leveraging his extensive experience in fostering the rapid deployment of innovative technologies and nurturing strategic partnerships. His illustrious 43-year career in the U.S. Navy, including his roles as Chief of Naval Operations and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, provides him with a unique perspective on the strategic needs of these sectors. Admiral Mullen is a Distinguished Graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and the Naval Postgraduate School, with further distinguished associations including Harvard Business School and the National Academy of Engineering.

“Admiral Mullen's extensive knowledge and strategic insights will greatly enhance our abilities to optimize our advanced manufacturing solutions and strengthen our partnerships,” says Hamid Zarringhalam, CEO of Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc. “His leadership is a significant asset to our team as we aim to surpass the stringent requirements of our aerospace and defense customers."

“These industries present both significant challenges and incredible opportunities, particularly in the realm of metal advanced manufacturing,” says Admiral Mullen. “Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc.'s innovative and integrated approach positions us to meet these complex demands effectively. I’m eager to contribute to our team's efforts in advancing, adopting, and scaling these transformative manufacturing solutions.”

This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal development for Nikon as it continues to forge paths in critical sectors using its world-renowned precision technology and manufacturing expertise.