A problem-solving architecture that addresses the entire life cycle of composite-materials fabrication from a generic-task viewpoint is presented. Prototype systems that capture the experience-based static design of fabrication plans and the progress-control knowledge of cavity tuning for the microwave curing of composites are described. The capturing of compiled process planning in the plan design phase, the routine-design system, and monitoring, global replanning, and local reactive planning of the fabrication plan are discussed.