3DPOD: Insight from 3D Printing Pros

Spencer Loveless’ story is a compelling one. It’s a tale of a family business starting from nowhere and becoming successful. Then subsequently, it is a tale of manufacturing in the USA against all odds. This is a very topical story, but it is also a crucial story for 3D printing. His firm Merit3D uses a technology that most have only seen at trade shows, Photocentric. Furthermore, he’s not running a traditional service bureau. Spencer wants to do to true manufacturing, bridge manufacturing, and production in the hundreds of thousands of parts. Now, of course we’ve heard that vision before. The difference here is that Spencer and his team are producing millions of cost-effective parts in the US. And we’re not talking about high end rocket nozzles or turbo machinery, but regular things, such as stud finders, hangers for epoxy tubes, and much more. Spencer is showing us all how we could scale up to real production.

I really loved this episode of the 3DPOD with Howie Marotto, Additive Manufacturing Business Director at EWI. A Marine with deep logistics experience gets to tell us how viable 3D printing actually is for the military. If we look at the frontlines, the forward operating base, or large overseas bases—where will we 3D print what? Which technologies and machines will be used, and how will the U.S. ensure it has the best machines? Given his significant experience in setting up and supplying some of the largest bases in the world, overseeing aircraft maintenance supply, and implementing new logistics systems, Howie offers unique insight into the need for and realism of 3D printing in military logistics.

Executive Director for the Center of Advanced Manufacturing and Materials at Harrisburg University, Larry “LJ” Holmes is a pioneer in applying additive manufacturing to defense and other critical sectors. Part inventor, part educator, he is dynamic and a true force for change. LJ is now spearheading the J-DAMMIT military 3D printing event. But he’s also done exciting work in explosive technologies and beyond. From swarm manufacturing to aviation, and from tiny robots to some of the largest 3D prints in existence, LJ has played a key role. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Harrisburg University’s mission and approach will likely inspire you as well and deepen your appreciation for the polymath that is LJ.

Andreas Knoechel, Head of Program Management for Additive Manufacturing at Oechsler, is doing some real heavy lifting in production. German plastics manufacturer Oechsler was the pioneer behind 3D-printed shoes at scale. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Andreas speaks of this success as well as some lesser-known achievements of the firm. From the well-known bicycle seats to other newer applications, he highlights the firm’s progress. I’d definitely give this episode a listen—Andreas shares real pearls of wisdom on optimizing 3D printing, true additive manufacturing, and its applications. The conversation was valuable, and I’m confident that if you listen, you’ll come away convinced that Oechsler is much further ahead than you may have thought.

Metallurgist and materials scientist Jacob Nuechterlein founded Elementum 3D in 2014 based on a proprietary process for making powders that enhances both the powder and the final parts’ properties. Elementum 3D produces tantalum, copper, steel, aluminum, and more. In space, aerospace, defense, and Formula 1, the company enables the production of parts that would otherwise be impossible to manufacture. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we talk to Jacob about metals, powders, applications, and the market in general. I think you’ll enjoy his insights and perspective.

Chromatic 3D Materials CEO Cora Leibig has extensive experience in the plastics industry. We discuss the volumes of polymers and other materials, as well as what is needed to transform these markets. Cora chose 3D printing because, in this sector, meaningful change—through new materials and manufacturing methods—can be implemented more easily and quickly than in higher-volume markets. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we talk about safety, cost, and strategies for growing additive manufacturing, as well as how her company develops 3D printing materials capable of producing strong, elastomeric parts. You’ll be most surprised by Cora’s approach to the market and her focus on growth, which is far more radical and ambitious than most in the industry.

Stephan Kuehr began his career at 3YOURMIND before joining the volumetric 3D printing firm Xolo. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we discuss Xolo, its technology, volumetric 3D printing, bioprinting, and the company’s market approach. We also explore its collaborations with academics and the development of applications for its technology. Additionally, Stephan shares insights on the state of the 3D printing industry, as well as advice on building and growing a successful startup.

Andrew Graves began his career as a Design Engineer before joining 3D Systems in 1990. After pioneering stereolithography in the UK for F1 teams and aerospace firms, he helped establish a 3D printing service. In 2012, he joined Stratasys, later working at DSM before returning to Stratasys to oversee the Neo line of 3D printers. With a broad perspective and deep expertise in additive manufacturing, Andrew shares fascinating anecdotes, little-known early examples of 3D printing, and insightful perspectives on the future of the industry on this episode of the 3DPOD.

Ronen Lebi has held extensive roles at Stratasys and served on the boards of numerous 3D printing startups. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Lebi’s history leads us to a discussion about what it’s like to be a startup today and the best practices regarding advice, boards, and growth. We also talk to Ronen about 3D printing applications and their expansion. Additionally, we get a chance to discuss Machina Labs, a startup that uses robots to cut, weld, and press metal panels.

Mark Barfoot is a 3D printing veteran who began by introducing additive manufacturing to traditional firms before becoming Managing Director of the Multi-Scale Additive Manufacturing Lab at the University of Waterloo. He later worked for Cimetrix and Javelin, two major 3D printing resellers, before spending a stint at EWI. Now, he serves as VP of Engineering at Voxel Innovations, an electrochemical polishing and machining firm capable of remarkable advancements. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we explore finishing techniques, the future of 3D printing resellers, and much more.

Joe Calmese talks to us about the financing of additive manufacturing, machine prices, and utilization. He runs ADDMAN, a large, high-end service bureau that produces many critical components, including defense articles. Naturally, in this episode of the 3DPOD, we discuss defense, as well as niobium and its applications. Joe’s enthusiasm and deep understanding of the subject are infectious, taking you on a journey toward greater efficiency in manufacturing. The manufacturing opportunity is substantial, and Joe shares how he plans to tackle it, ensuring ADDMAN grows while staying true to its core values.

Adam Travis, Global AM Program Leader at Westinghouse, is lifting the veil of secrecy surrounding 3D printing in the nuclear industry for us in this episode of the 3DPOD. He delves into the qualification process for nuclear power components, examines material selection, and explores designing for longevity spanning decades. We discuss the nuclear sector’s approach to its supply chain and the parts being manufactured for the industry. Adam also shares an exciting story about how Westinghouse leveraged 3D printing to maintain power in Ukraine. Additionally, we have a compelling conversation about aluminum and its rise as a prominent material in additive. Adam Travis will be participating on Panel 4: Applications at Additive Manufacturing Strategies, taking place in New York City February 4 – 6, 2025.

In this episode of the 3DPOD, we take a deep dive into 3D printing for golf. Cobra PUMA Golf has gone further than other firms, employing Multi Jet Fusion, binder jet, and powder bed fusion for production golf clubs. Better putters and metal drivers are now achievable through 3D printing. But how did Ryan Roach, Cobra Golf’s Director of Innovation, and his team make this possible? What challenges did they face? And is 3D printing a passing trend in golf or a fundamental evolution? Our producer Jake explores some golf-specific questions, leaving us convinced that the union of golf and 3D printing represents a transformative development for both. Roach will also be speaking at Additive Manufacturing Strategies on Feb. 4, 2025 in New York City to discuss in more detail about Cobra Golf’s journey to expand use of additive manufacturing into its product line.

Nick Sonnentag is a Senior Principal Engineer at Oshkosh, where he contributes to the development of some of the world’s toughest vehicles using additive manufacturing (AM). Drawing on experience from ATI, DuPont, and more, Nick possesses broad and deep expertise in 3D printing. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we discuss alloys, vehicle manufacturing, applications, and the readiness of directed energy deposition technology for widespread use. Not limiting his exploration of 3D printing to his work at Oshkosh, Nick founded Sunnyday Technologies to tackle the significant challenges in construction 3D printing. Rather than focusing on machines, he concentrates on the binders and the precise formulations needed to achieve specific properties in final structures. This approach stands out for its elegance and promise, diverging from conventional methods of discovering applications and materials. It makes this episode especially insightful. Nick also wanted to clarify that at one point, he mistakenly referenced General Atomics instead of General Dynamics and asked me to note this for accuracy.

Kevin Ayers spent 30 years at the FBI, contributing to groundbreaking engineering initiatives for the Bureau and beyond. On this episode of the 3DPOD, we’re fortunate to have Kevin sharing some of his once-classified insights on our podcast. It’s fascinating to learn how the FBI utilized 3D printing and just how long they’ve been exploring this technology. In addition to his FBI tenure, Kevin has been instrumental in 3D printing’s success for nearly two decades, worked at Danfoss, and currently serves as a consultant at 3D Metal Konsulting. His cumulative expertise and perspectives are truly remarkable, making this episode a must-listen.

Andy Davis is Director of Government Solutions at The Barnes Global Advisors. Previously he was at the DOD and the US Army in various logistics, program management, technology advisory roles. In the podcast we discuss austere 3D printing, 3D Printing at the point of need, drones, the military at large and much more. It’s clear that the Navy and Air Force are investing in AM and we delve into the why and what of it. Andy´s views and opinions are steeped in experience and this is a very helpful episode to any coming to grips with military uses for Additive.

Kate Black is the Chief Executive Officer of Atomik AM, where she leads a team dedicated to fostering innovation and developing integrated advanced manufacturing solutions. The company specializes in electronics 3D printing, jetting technologies for novel materials, coatings, and multi-material 3D printing. Additionally, she serves as a Professor of Manufacturing at the University of Liverpool. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Kate shares her technical vision and a forward-looking perspective that will captivate many. She also emphasizes the importance of environmental manufacturing, advocating for cleaner chemistries and technologies.

Melissa Orme played a pivotal role as CTO at Morf3D, transforming the company from a standard service bureau into a leader in aerospace 3D printing that went on to be acquired by Nikon. Now at Boeing, as Vice President of Additive Manufacturing (AM), she spearheads the company’s 3D printing initiatives, aiming to integrate AM wherever practical. Boeing, which has a longstanding lead in low-rate 3D printing production and manufacturing thousands of parts for civilian aircraft, benefits from Melissa’s vision and expertise. In this episode of the 3DPOD, she shares fascinating insights about Boeing’s current advancements and her aspirations for expanding 3D printing’s applications within the company.

Sascha Schwarz is a researcher dedicated to aiding his university, Technical University of Munich (TUM), to foster innovation as CTO of TUM Venture Labs. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we explore diverse startups, the challenges faced by scientists transitioning into entrepreneurial roles, and the incubation of new ventures. Topics include technology transfers, development, and the essential qualities of a successful startup. This conversation is a must-listen for university professionals looking to commercialize technology and for entrepreneurs seeking to gain valuable insights from Sascha’s expertise.

Tim Simpson is an advisor to NASA, Professor Emeritus at Penn State, and a consultant for Xact Metal. He is also associated with The Barnes Global Advisors, among numerous other engagements. In this episode of the 3DPOD, our discussion delves into defense, space, and the future of additive manufacturing, exploring critical topics such as commoditization, drones, and advancements in software. It’s an engaging conversation for anyone keen to understand the current state and trajectory of additive technology.

Jim Harrison is a true 3D printing veteran. Currently working at MELD Manufacturing, he has also contributed his expertise to nScrypt, Cimquest, and other notable organizations. As a co-founder of one of the world’s first service bureaus and an early pioneer in vat polymerization for medical devices, he operated one of the earliest vat polymerization printers at Pratt & Whitney. Jim’s insights and vision not only highlight the evolution of additive manufacturing but also underscore the progress made over decades in the industry.

Trent Esser founded Printerior with his partners and has since pivoted and redefined the company’s focus multiple times. Printerior operates as a 3D printing service that both sells and recycles filament. The company employs a diverse range of equipment, including inexpensive desktop machines, Bambu Lab systems, and large-format printers. Despite producing hundreds of thousands of parts, Printerior has chosen to forgo powder bed fusion, instead focusing on material extrusion. This approach allows the company to remain more fluid and flexible than many of its competitors. In my view, Printerior represents a vanguard reshaping how 3D printing services are delivered.

Harshil Goel founded Dyndrite as a kernel designed for 3D printing. While this core technology remains available for OEMs and software firms, the company now also offers a tool that provides users with greater control over laser operations and settings. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Harshil explains what Dyndrite does and how it is being utilized. We discuss innovative approaches to using, modifying, and adapting settings, as well as methods to accelerate manufacturing processes. Faster build rates and enhanced performance customization are among the topics covered in our conversation.

Pan Michaleris has been working in finite element analysis (FEA) and related fields for decades. As a professor, he contributed significantly to the discipline and later developed CUBES, which was eventually acquired by Autodesk. The CUBES simulation tool is now a key component of Fusion. Since, Pan has established another company, Pan Optimization, whose primary product, PanX, is designed to transform how FEA is conducted. The tool is optimized to run on standard desktop machines, enabling users to perform many more FEA jobs on a wider range of parts. Pan also brings his own unique vision for running and building a business, which I think is a crucial aspect of this episode of the 3DPOD.

In this episode of the 3DPOD, Cassidy Silbernagel, Head of AM Engineering at Exergy Solutions, takes some time to discuss design for additive manufacturing (AM) and 3D printing, with a strong focus on the energy industry. He explains why oil and gas represent a major growth area for AM, covering the industry’s standards, motivations, and the types of parts being 3D printed. Cassidy dives into materials like Inconel, highlighting their importance to these companies, and provides insights into the manufacturing process for these components. The episode also introduces Exergy, a company with both design and manufacturing expertise, enabling it to manage part production for clients effectively. Notably, Exergy owns the first Wayland Additive machine, which places it in a unique position within the energy sector. This episode will be valuable not only for those in the energy business but also for other specialized firms looking to achieve similar success through deep expertise and a tailored approach to client needs.

Lincoln Electric is a storied, large company in welding. The company collaborated with Oak Ridge National Laboratory to develop a welding technology that is now actively used in production. Lincoln Electric manufactures oil and gas pressure vessels, industrial components, and submarine parts. In this episode of the 3DPOD, Mark Douglass, Business Development Manager for Lincoln Electric Additive Solutions, shares insights about the company’s journey in additive manufacturing and its growth ambitions. Lincoln Electric utilizes Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), and Mark explains when this technology is the optimal choice and when it is not. The sheer size of the objects Lincoln produces—ranging into the thousands of pounds—is truly impressive. This podcast will likely inspire many to take a closer look at WAAM.

Janet Dickinson entered 3D printing after a career spanning over 25 years in IT and Operations. She joined Endeavor 3D as its CRO and now serves as the COO of the additive manufacturing-focused contract manufacturer. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we talk to Janet about operations, efficiency, price calculations, and production optimization. Endeavor 3D has a significant number of Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) systems, so we also discuss MJF technology. Additionally, the company is an early adopter of HP’s MetalJet, giving us the opportunity to learn how that process is progressing and where they see opportunities in binder jetting and with the MetalJet system. Janet also shares her insights on the future of contract manufacturing and 3D printing in a candid and informative discussion for anyone involved in manufacturing with 3D printing.

Greg Hayes is the senior vice president of EOS’ Additive Minds. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we have a broad discussion about additive manufacturing, the future, and what needs to be done to bring it about. We learn about training, people, machines, and all the components of a 3D-printed future. Greg also shares some of his personal experiences, making for a great episode.

Ian Muceus worked at NASA, as a consultant, and at software firms, including Origin, Stratasys, and other companies. He brings this broad experience to Firestorm, a company aiming to produce drones close to the point of need. 3D printing many of the components of a drone could allow for customization, improvement, and redesign right before deployment. This approach could also enable drones to be made more quickly and efficiently. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we explore Firestorm’s vision, how the company is implementing it, and the future of drones.

Fabian Alefeld is a Senior Manager at EOS‘s Additive Minds. One of his day-to-day responsibilities is overseeing EOS Academy, which focuses on educating people about 3D printing. In our conversation, we discuss education, as well as trends, materials, new applications, and much more. While we touch on EOS and its ecosystem, the focus is much broader. There is a lot to unpack in this lively discussion.

On this episode of the 3DPOD, 3D printing consultant Ryan Hayford discusses marketing, branding, leads, and more with your hosts, Max and Joris. While we touch on Ryan’s past experience in additive, the main focus is on how to effectively market your 3D printing brand. How should you define and implement your go-to-market strategy in additive? What’s important, and what are some tips on the marketing front? A super useful episode!

Dr. Krysten Minnici is a scientist who now works in business development at Arkema. In this episode, we discuss PEKK, PAEK, polymers, powder bed fusion materials, recycling rates, 3D printing material development, and more. We also cover Rilsan, plant-based polymers, sustainability, and new applications. Krysten takes the time to explain key concepts about polymers and performance. This is a great episode to learn about high-performance polymers and additive. Disclaimer: Views expressed here are Krysten’s own and do not reflect the views of her employer!

Danny Piper, of NewCap Partners, helps companies with mergers and acquisitions, financial analysis, and more, particularly in the additive manufacturing sector. As an analyst and sparring partner for the industry, Danny is known for being insightful, forthright, and bold. As you can learn from his podcast, Printing Money, he’s unafraid to share unpopular opinions that may make you uncomfortable but will push you to think critically and make the right decisions. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we discuss current issues surrounding funding, exits, growth, consolidation, and the market as a whole. We really enjoyed this discussion and hope you will too.

Glynn Fletcher is the President of EOS North America. Transitioning from the machine tool world to 3D printing has given him a unique perspective compared to many others in our industry. He is outspoken, direct, and clear in his views on both the immediate and long-term future of the industry. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we spoke with Glynn about the past, the current state of the market, downturns, and a hopeful future. He is very positive about the near-term outlook for EOS and optimistic about the long-term prospects for the industry. Strap in for this fun ride.

Matthias Schmidt-Lehr began his career at Laser Zentrum Nord, now known as Fraunhofer IAPT. He later became a researcher at the University of Hamburg before co-founding the startup Bionic Production. Afterward, Matthias decided to launch AMPOWER, a 3D printing consultancy that publishes research reports and assists companies in the additive manufacturing sector. In our conversation, Matthias shares his journey in additive manufacturing, explains how his company has evolved, and discusses the ways they have supported their clients. We also explore his insights on the market and the future of additive manufacturing.

Aleksander Ciszek co-founded 3YOURMIND and has helped build the business over the past decade. In this episode of the 3DPOD, he discusses pivots, strategy, software, defense, energy, growth, and more. We appreciated learning from Aleksander’s perspective on strategy and the market in general. He also shares insights on the future of maintenance, repair, and overhaul; the digital warehouse; and 3D printing. How should a company like 3YOURMIND position itself in the software market, and what does its future hold?

Brigitte de Vet-Veithen, who previously led Materialise’s medical unit, has transitioned into the CEO role at the 3D printing service and software firm. In our discussion, we explore what makes Materialise unique. We also delve into the potential of each of the company’s units, discussing opportunities for implants in the developing world, personalized implants, medical software, the cloud, desktop 3D printing, manufacturing, aerospace, and more.

Wei Jiang founded medicine 3D printing startup Craft Health as a Pharmacy student. I love it when practitioners and people from other backgrounds establish 3D printing companies. It often leads to user-driven companies that cater well to those trying to use additive manufacturing. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we follow Craft Health’s journey from inception to funding and the release of the firm’s 3D printer for pharmaceuticals. We discuss release kinetics, approvals, drug delivery, compounding pharmacies, dosage forms, polypills, delayed release, nutrition, dementia care, and much more. 3D printing for pharmaceuticals has significant potential, and not enough people are paying attention.

40 years ago today, on August 8, 1984, Charles Hull filed a patent application for stereolithography (SLA), the first additive manufacturing technique in history. We’re honored to have Chuck Hull on the 3DPOD podcast today. Chuck tells us how he started 3D Systems (NYSE: DDD), scaled the company, and shares some of the secrets of his success. We discuss how the industry is evolving, tough times, why he still comes into the office, and his fascination with bioprinting. We loved talking to Chuck!

Today, we have two guests on the 3DPOD: Bonnie Gurney of the Association for Manufacturing Technology (AMT) and Debbie Holton of Converge Consulting. Debbie has extensive experience in trade shows and has worked in communications for SME, America Makes, ASME, and AMT. Meanwhile, Bonnie is the Vice President of Strategic Content & Partnerships at AMT. Since AMT organizes the world’s largest event dedicated to manufacturing technology, the International Manufacturing Trade Show (IMTS), we delve deeply into this leading event, which is taking place September 9-14 in Chicago. We also discuss event organization in general, the state of events, and how to visit an event successfully as a professional or company.

Jon Porter started at Dyson, then worked at 3D RPT, Renishaw, Velo 3D, and now serves as Business Development Manager of Additive Manufacturing at Matsuura Machinery. His experience across the industry provides fun insights and an illuminating view of the field. Jon is wise and speaks his mind, which is a lovely quality. What follows in this episode of the 3DPOD is a super fun and entertaining talk that you can really learn from.

Sam O´Leary worked in making aftermarket components and reverse engineering before joining GE Power and GE Additive. Subsequently he went to SLM Solutions. He was there for a real resurgence of the company with SLM releasing ever larger models culminating with the large-format,12-laser NXG XII powder bed fusion 3D printer. Then the firm was sold to Nikon, to form Nikon SLM Solutions. Sam talks to us about the laser wars, about ever larger printers, strategy and how to run a business well. His focus on doing simple things right, driving the right innovations with and for customers, and executing has paid off handsomely for the firm. We talk as well about the future of additive and what will get us there.

Mohsen Seifi already had deep expertise in additive manufacturing and research before joining ASTM. Now, as Vice President of Global Advanced Manufacturing Programs, he heads up ASTM’s unified initiatives in additive manufacturing. 3D printing is significant at ASTM, and ASTM is influential in the field of 3D printing. We speak to Mohsen about how this synergy developed, what ASTM is doing in standards, what ASTM offers in terms of education, and other ongoing projects. Mohsen also shares his vision for the future of additive manufacturing and how to achieve it. While we delve deeply into standards and their impact, the conversation covers a broad range of topics.

Rich Neill is refreshingly clear and direct about 3D printed electronics. His previous venture allowed him to start Advanced Printed Electronic Solutions with his own money, making him beholden to no one. This independence enables him to speak candidly about the opportunities and capabilities of 3D printed electronics today. He can clearly discuss what is working, what is happening, and what is real. The result is a super informative podcast that is a must-listen for anyone in 3D printing, offering a chance to learn just how useful and imminent 3D printed electronics are.

Will Richardson started the electron beam company Wayland Additive nearly five years ago. Since then, the UK firm has been part of the eBeam renaissance, witnessing a resurgence of electron beam vendors and users. Concurrently, the UK and its defense establishment have significantly increased their adoption of additive manufacturing (AM). Was Wayland just in the right place at the right time, or does the company have much more going for it? In this episode of the 3DPOD, Richardson discusses the architecture of their machines, the applications they’re working on, NeuBeam’s particle neutralization, process monitoring, and more, demonstrating that his firm is not just here to stay but here to grow.

In this episode of the 3DPOD, we take a deep dive into IP, patents, and more with Meggan Duffy, Partner at Marshall Gerstein. As an entrepreneur our co-host Max is especially engaged in this episode. It was very practical, offering a lot of actionable learnings on IP. The takeaway for me was that in our business, you need an IP strategy and must be very engaged with this subject. Chock full of practical information, this is a great episode to learn more about IP.

Julien Marcilly had a number of senior management roles managing plants and production facilities, including large metal foundries. He worked for the French industrial concern Fives, which can build you a machine or an entire factory. Now he is the CEO of AddUp, a joint venture between Fives and Michelin. In this episode of the 3DPOD, we talk about what AddUp is doing, what it hopes to achieve, the market for powder bed fusion machines, and the future of the industry.

Additive manufacturing (AM) veteran Stefan Ritt is back on the 3DPOD after his appearance earlier this year. This time, Stefan gives us his report from TCT Asia. On the heels of the release of “The State of Chinese Additive Manufacturing: Market Opportunity Brief” from AM Research, we discuss the capabilities, focus, and reach of Asian powder bed fusion firms. What was the focus of TCT? What kinds of machines were there? What kinds of parts are they making, and what materials are they showcasing? Are they making a lot of New Space parts? Are there European firms making waves in Asia? Where is the Chinese market headed, and what are the implications for OEMs and other firms? In this episode, we have a lively discussion that I hope will be of value to you.

Bob Willig is an experienced executive who, after years of roles with GKN, the Gates Corporation, and others, became the Executive Director of SME (the Society of Manufacturing Engineers). In this episode of the 3DPOD, we talk to him about what SME is, what it does, and how it aims to grow 3D printing. In addition to Bob, we are also joined by Angie Szerlong, who has been a key leader of the RAPID + TCT event since 2001. She talks to us about this year’s RAPID + TCT and gives advice on what to do if you’re a new visitor or an exhibitor. We talk to both Angie and Bob about the future of additive manufacturing, important developments, and the future of events.

Oluseun Taiwo began working with Optomec’s take on directed energy deposition (DED), LENS, as a student and later gained experience at Argonne National Laboratory, Rocket Lab, Arconic, Virgin Orbit, and 3D Systems. We discuss DED and the utility of this often-overlooked technology. Additionally, we examine the new space industry, application development, and the future of 3D printing. We also explore Taiwo’s startup, Solideon, which merges his expertise in application development, DED, and rockets into a 3D printing solution for space.