text: Eden Prairie-based Third Wave wins a U.S. energy award - StarTribune.com
  Business 158754675
  Eden Prairie-based Third Wave wins a U.S. energy award
  The $4 million grant will help the engineering firm use software to better its technology and help manufacturers.
  June 12, 2012 — 9:39pm
  Third Wave Systems Inc. of Eden Prairie was one of 13 companies chosen Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Energy to participate in a $54 million Innovative Manufacturing Initiative.
  The initiative seeks unique technologies and materials that will boost energy efficiency, cut costs and reduce waste in factories across the country.
  Third Wave, a 17-year-old computer-aided engineering firm with 28 employees and undisclosed revenue, was chosen from among 250 applicants nationwide. It was the only firm in Minnesota to receive an award.
  By simulating the manufacturing process before a big test run, the hope is that customers discover where to make adjustments before they flip on any machine. That can prevent tool breakage, overheating and unnecessary energy drains, explained company spokeswoman Kate Burke. The new award will help Third Wave perfect its technology and help manufacturers sooner, she said. "We are pretty pumped. This is the biggest award we have ever received," Burke said.
  Troy Marusich, Third Wave co-founder and chief technical officer, said: "We are proud and honored to be part of this elite group of companies and researchers" that received Tuesday's award. "This award substantiates [our] leadership in the areas of machining modeling and process improvements. We are excited."