The Applied Science and Technology Research Organization of America (ASTRO America) and the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Industrial Base Program celebrated a groundbreaking and traditional Benedición Thursday for Guam’s first advanced manufacturing hub — the Guam Additive Materials and Manufacturing Accelerator (GAMMA).
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio joined the ceremony, marking what officials described as a major step toward positioning Guam as a leader in high-tech manufacturing and defense readiness.
“When I came into office, I believed Guam deserved more than to simply host innovation taking place elsewhere,” said Leon Guerrero. “GAMMA represents that belief becoming reality — skilled careers for our sons and daughters right here at home.”
Located in Dededo, the 8,000-square-foot facility will use metal additive manufacturing — or 3D printing — to produce mission-critical parts for the U.S. Navy and future commercial use. The center will also provide hands-on collaboration opportunities for engineers, students, and Navy maintainers.
“This project represents years of collaboration and commitment to something much bigger than just a building,” said Alex Benham, GAMMA’s director and general manager. “For Guam, it means high-value technical jobs, training for the next generation, and a lasting role in strengthening our nation’s defense industrial base.”
Construction and equipment installation are expected to continue through early 2026, with phased operations beginning soon after.