EP 05: Additive Manufacturing Is Now a Security Issue

For years, additive manufacturing was evaluated on performance, cost, and speed.Now it’s being evaluated on something else: security.In this episode of The Additive Advantage, Shon Anderson and Dani Mason unpack the growing scrutiny around additive manufacturing systems—why it’s happening, why it’s accelerating, and why this is far bigger than a “buy American” initiative.What started as an NDAA regulation impacting Department of Defense programs is quickly expanding beyond aerospace and defense. IT departments, procurement teams, legal counsel, and corporate security leaders are now asking new questions:Where is this equipment manufactured?Where is the software written?Where are the servers located?What happens during firmware updates?How is our IP protected in a cloud-connected workflow?Modern additive systems are not just machines—they are cyber-physical production platforms that sit at the direct intersection of digital design and physical output. That shift changes everything.Shon and Dani discuss:Why additive is being evaluated differently than traditional manufacturing equipmentThe risk implications of cloud connectivity and firmware updatesThe growing role of IT and cybersecurity teams in AM adoptionHow regulatory pressure is flowing beyond defense into commercial sectorsWhy this is fundamentally a security initiative—not just an economic oneWhat forward-thinking organizations are doing now to stay ahead of the curveThey also explore how companies can approach this programmatically—evaluating additive not as a one-off equipment purchase, but as part of an integrated production system that includes QA/QC, cybersecurity, legal frameworks, and long-term supply chain strategy.This episode is not about fear. It’s about awareness, accountability, and preparation.Additive manufacturing still offers enormous opportunity—but in today’s environment, success requires aligning technology, business strategy, and security from day one.About the Show The Additive Advantage Podcast explores what it really takes to turn additive manufacturing into a scalable, performance-driven business capability. Hosted by Dani Mason and Shon Anderson, the show features real conversations with leaders accountable for outcomes — not hype.Follow & Subscribe Follow The Additive Advantage Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, watch full episodes on YouTube, and follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date on new episodes and insights.Apple | Spotify | YouTube | LinkedInAbout the Hosts Hosted by Dani Mason and Shon Anderson, industry leaders with deep experience in technology and additive manufacturing.