Protocase Launches Laser Cutting in Wilmington, Boosts US Manufacturing

The Protocase Companies, a leader in rapid custom manufacturing, announced the launch of laser cutting operations at its Wilmington, North Carolina facility on July 7, 2026. This milestone marks a significant expansion of the company's U.S. manufacturing footprint, enabling end-to-end precision sheet metal fabrication domestically. Laser cutting is a core technology behind Protocase's proprietary High Velocity Mass Customization (HVMC) model, which combines experienced people, proven systems, and smart facilities to deliver custom-manufactured parts in days instead of weeks. The investment supports the fast turnaround times that engineers, researchers, and product developers rely on to accelerate innovation without compromising quality.

During a period of rapid growth, Protocase expanded its Wilmington workforce from 39 to 72 employees between May and July, while continuing to scale production within its 20,900-square-foot facility. Co-founder and Vice President Dr. Doug Milburn emphasized that HVMC is about the harmony of people, systems, and know-how, and that bringing laser cutting to Wilmington strengthens the company's ability to serve customers with speed and precision. Future plans include a dedicated CNC machining operation and a larger campus with expanded manufacturing space and corporate offices.

The Protocase Companies, which also include 45Drives and ProtoSpace Manufacturing, serve innovation-driven industries such as aerospace, defense, robotics, and scientific research. Headquartered in Sydney, Nova Scotia, with a growing U.S. presence in Wilmington, the company is committed to building advanced manufacturing capacity in the United States. For more details, visit the original release on NEWMEDIAWIRE and learn more about the company at Protocase.