AM Insider

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of AM Insider, we sit down with Christian Seidel, professor of additive manufacturing and consultant at Wohlers Associates (powered by ASTM International), to explore where the additive manufacturing industry is headed in 2026 and beyond.Christian shares insider insights on AM market growth trends, why the industry continues to grow at ~10% annually, and how AI is transforming metal 3D printing, process optimization, beam shaping, and quality assurance. We also discuss the critical role of standards in scaling additive manufacturing, including why ISO and ASTM standards matter for production, defense, aerospace, and regulated industries.Key topics include:The real state of the additive manufacturing market in 2026Why Powder Bed Fusion still dominates metal AM—and where DED is gaining groundHow AI is being applied inside AM processes, not just data analysisDefense vs. non‑defense AM growth and market hypeWhat skills the next generation of AM professionals must developWhy process chains, production readiness, and standards will define the next phase of AM adoption

Send us Fan MailMedical 3D printing is one of the most promising—and misunderstood—areas of additive manufacturing. In this episode of AM Insider, we’re joined by Ben Klein, a biomedical engineer and former leader in medical additive manufacturing, to unpack what’s actually working in healthcare and why adoption takes longer than most expect.Ben shares firsthand insight from building early medical 3D printing programs, including patient‑specific anatomical models, surgical guides, and tissue‑like training models used by surgeons and device manufacturers. We explore why hype-driven use cases often fail, how real clinical adoption happens, and what it takes for additive manufacturing to become part of the standard of care.The conversation dives deep into workflow challenges, surgeon adoption, reimbursement realities, and how AI-driven automation could unlock the next phase of scalable medical 3D printing. Ben also offers practical advice for engineers, startups, and hospitals looking to enter the medical space—and what not to do if you want long-term success.In this episode, we cover:Why medical 3D printing adoption moves slower than other industriesAnatomical models vs. patient‑specific surgical guidesHow surgeons actually decide whether to use 3D printed toolsWorkflow and segmentation as the real bottleneckThe role of AI in automating medical design workflowsReimbursement, regulation, and the path to standard of careWhere medical additive manufacturing is headed in the next 5–10 yearsWhether you’re working in additive manufacturing, medical devices, healthcare innovation, or exploring how 3D printing fits into regulated industries, this episode offers a grounded, experience‑driven look at what it really takes to succeed.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the AM Insider podcast, hosts Justin Hopkins and Dustin Kloempken sit down with Stefan Joens, a second-generation business owner of Elnik Systems. The conversation explores the critical but often misunderstood role of thermal processing in metal additive manufacturing, particularly for binder jetting and other sinter-based technologies.Key Discussion PointsRedefining Sintering: Stefan argues that sintering should be viewed as an in-process step rather than "post-processing" because a metal part is not truly complete until it has undergone this thermal cycle.The Science of the Furnace: The episode explains how furnaces vaporize polymer binders at low temperatures before heating metal particles just below their melting point to fuse them together. This process involves a significant shrinkage of 10% to 20%.Batch vs. Continuous Furnaces: For companies deciding on equipment, Stefan notes that batch furnaces offer high flexibility for various alloys and runs under 200,000 parts, while continuous furnaces are the "unbeatable" choice for high-volume, consistent production.The "Glass Box" Approach: Stefan shares his mission to turn the "black box" of furnace technology into a "glass box," focusing on educating users so they understand the metallurgy and physics happening inside the chamber.Industry Evolution: The group discusses moving past the initial industry "hype" toward a more mature phase focused on alloy development—such as titanium, copper, and Inconel—and actual production-ready parts.Expert RecommendationsStefan strongly advises that before making a major capital investment, companies should benchmark their parts. He encourages sending full loads of printed parts to experts, such as his sister company DSH Technologies, to prove the process works before buying a furnace. He also recommends resources like the Metal Injection Molding Association (MIMA) and the Formnext and Rapid + TCT trade shows for continued learning.

Send us Fan MailThis episode of the AM Insider podcast is hosted by Justin Hopkins and Dustin Kloempken. It is part of a miniseries focused on the beginnings of additive manufacturing (AM), aiming to share experiences from industry veterans.The guest is Darin Everett, who is referred to as an industry "longtimer". He joined Stratasys in 1999 when the company was relatively small, starting at $28.5 million. Darin agreed with the common observation that the industry’s start-up era was "darn fun" and dynamic.Career and Focus at StratasysDarin studied mechanical engineering but transitioned into sales to better communicate with his typical customers (mechanical engineers). Before joining Stratasys, he worked in demanding traditional manufacturing environments like oil refineries, requiring him to wear fire retardant clothing and steel-toe boots daily.His passion and specialty during his 16 years at Stratasys was manufacturing, production, and tooling.He began in direct sales of large frame systems ("big boxes"). In January 2009, he moved to the first segment team (starting with aerospace) to develop applications such as composite layout tools, jigs, fixtures, and drill guides. After the Objet merger in late 2012, he helped resellers worldwide sell these manufacturing applications through channel management.After a sabbatical (2017 to 2020), he returned to work in St. Louis, motivated to be part of the push to bring manufacturing back to the US. He currently focuses on the metal side of AM, specifically refractory metals using electron beam powder bed fusion.Selling and Production ChallengesSelling "Black Magic": In the early 2000s, selling AM felt like selling "black magic" as engineers were highly skeptical.Focus on Solutions: Darin stressed that the industry sells solutions, not machines, and the only relevant output is the part. Sales must address the customer's pain or the losses they are preventing.High Stakes: Production cannot stop, as a shutdown in high-requirement environments (like a refinery) can cost $1 million to $3 million a day. High-requirement applications must justify the entire system cost (machine, people, floor space) with a one-to-two-year ROI.Certification Hurdles: Material qualification and certification are lengthy and expensive. The effort to fly the first 3D-printed part stalled for over five years due to the multi-million dollar cost of obtaining burn data and allowables. Currently, a hurdle for newer processes, such as electron beam powder bed fusion of tungsten, is that there is no US-certified lab that has a standardized process to prepare and test the required specimens.Future Outlook and AdviceFuture Outlook: Darin believes AM has a great future but anticipates an overdue "squeeze" on the number of OEMs. He expects growth tied to critical items returning to US manufacturing, especially in defense, energy, and nuclear fusion.Key Advice: The second sale (the repeat sale) is the true test of a company, the machine, and the relationship, as it requires proving oneself after the initial battle.Recommended Resources: Darin advised watching "How Things Are Made" to understand traditional manufacturing (casting, forging, molding), reading the Wohlers Report annually, and attending AMUG for real feedback. He also recommended resources on sales and marketing, including Chris Harris’s book Phase Selling.

Send us Fan MailThis podcast episode of "AM Insider" features an interview with Ryan Kircher, a principal additive manufacturing engineer at RMS Company, a medical device contract manufacturer. The discussion centers on the adoption of additive manufacturing (AM), specifically within the medical device industry. Kircher shares his 20 years of experience in the field, detailing the challenges and successes of using AM for medical implants, including the complexities of FDA regulations, process validation, and quality control. The conversation also explores the economic considerations and the integration of AM with traditional manufacturing processes, highlighting how these factors influence the widespread use and future of additive manufacturing in medicine.Significant Investment Required for Medical AM: Establishing additive manufacturing capabilities for medical devices demands substantial upfront investment, often in the realm of millions of dollars, and takes years to develop the necessary qualifications, validations, and a robust quality system. Many companies tend to underestimate this significant financial and time commitment.Evolution of Regulatory Landscape and FDA Guidance: Early pioneers in medical additive manufacturing faced the daunting task of creating new terminology, standards, and process validations from scratch, often having to adapt existing standards for conventional materials. However, the FDA has since published guidance documents, such as "Technical Considerations for Additively Manufactured Medical Devices," which have helped clarify requirements and streamline the clearance process, making it easier today for those who understand the process.Additive Printing is a Small Fraction of the Total Process: While the actual "additive portion" of manufacturing a medical device might only take 2-3 days for a build, the entire process from initiating the print to shipping a finished device can span 6-8 weeks. This highlights the extensive pre- and post-processing, quality control, and other complementary steps that are crucial for medical device production.Integrated Manufacturing Capabilities are Essential for Success: Being a successful medical device manufacturer using additive processes requires much more than just a "print shop." It necessitates comprehensive in-house capabilities, including downstream processes like CNC machining, thorough powder removal, and advanced inspection techniques. Companies that already possess a strong manufacturing infrastructure (like contract manufacturers) are better positioned for success.Strategic Application Drives Value in AM: Additive manufacturing should be leveraged for the unique value it can add, such as creating complex porous lattice structures that promote osseointegration or eliminating secondary manufacturing steps (e.g., coating processes). Simply using AM to replace an existing conventional manufacturing method for a part that could be made cheaper or better otherwise is often a struggle. It's crucial to objectively determine if AM is the right fit for a particular part or feature.Medical AM is a Large-Scale Success Story: Despite common misconceptions, additive manufacturing has achieved significant scale and success in the medical device industry. For example, RMS company alone has sold over 1 million off-the-shelf additively manufactured medical implants, and other major companies like Stryker operate at even larger scales. Spinal fusion cages, in particular, represent a major success story for AM due to their part volume and design requirements.Economic and Incumbency Barriers Can Hinder Adoption: While hip cups were one of the first applications for AM (circa 2008-2009), they serve as a cautionary tale. Only a small percentage of hip cups are additively

Send us Fan Mail This episode features an interview with Rajeev Kulkarni, a seasoned professional in the additive manufacturing industry, who shares his extensive experience and insights into the history, evolution, and future of 3D printing. Rajeev discusses his early contributions to the field, including the invention of support generation for SLA and the creation of the STL file format, highlighting the collaborative effort required for innovation and the importance of focusing on problem-solving and applications rather than just technology. He also offers advice for newcomers and executives in the industry, emphasizing the need to view 3D printing as a manufacturing technology and to integrate it within a broader digital ecosystem rather than positioning it against traditional methods. The conversation touches upon the impact of AI and the rewarding aspects of 3D printing, particularly in healthcare.Humble and Challenging Beginnings: 3D printing began in the early 1990s from a state of "nothing," facing significant challenges such as a lack of 3D CAD design, expensive software, and the absence of standard formats, which led to the creation of the STL format. Computers were also slow, sometimes taking overnight to slice a file.Evolving Industry Vision: Initial visions for 3D printing centered on accelerated product development, toolless manufacturing, and customization/one-off production. The concept of on-demand and distributed manufacturing emerged later as the technology evolved and customers presented these possibilities.Innovation Through Collaboration and Iteration: The industry's rapid progress from creating the first 3D printers to establishing business models in industries like hearing aids and jewelry within 8-10 years was a multidisciplinary, cross-functional, and collaborative effort. Success hinged on being nimble and iterative, as customers often did not know what to ask for in a disruptive technology. Rajeev Kulkarni himself invented support generation for Stereolithography (SLA), drawing inspiration from electric pole designs.Focus on Applications and Solutions, Not Just Technology: The core principle for success is that "technology is the cost and the application is the revenue". Focusing on specific applications and customer solutions that address real-world problems is paramount, as demonstrated by the long-term success in sectors like dental and hearing aids.No Single "Killer App" or "Inflection Point": The industry has not experienced a singular "inflection point" or "killer app." Instead, successful applications like aligners, hearing aids, dental, and jewelry have achieved significant penetration through a "grind" that takes years or decades to replace complex workflows and achieve perfection."Manufacturing," Not "Printing": A significant disservice to the industry is referring to it as "printing" instead of "manufacturing." Executives and professionals must understand that replacing or enhancing manufacturing workflows is a complex undertaking, not a simple printing task, and requires a manufacturing-oriented mindset to succeed.Complementary, Not Replacement, Approach: Positioning 3D printing against traditional manufacturing is often the "wrong approach." The real value of 3D printing lies in enhancing and complementing traditional methods, such as accelerating design cycles, producing complex internal features, or consolidating multiple part assemblies.The Importance of the Entire Ecosystem: The success of 3D printing extends far beyond the printer itself, encompassing a vast ecosystem including design software, reverse engineering, pre-processing, materials, post-processing, quality con

Send us Fan MailThis episode of AM Insider features a special discussion on the history and evolution of the additive manufacturing (AM) industry. Hosts Justin Hopkins and Dustin Kloempken welcome Kevin Mortzfield, an industry veteran who began his career in late 1994, to share his extensive experience.Kevin Mortzfield's background includes working at 3D Systems as an associate applications engineer, where he started with stereolithography (SLA) on machines like the SLA 250. He then moved to Masco Corporation, running various 3D printing technologies (SLA, SLS, Objet) and managing their R&D facility as a shared service for business units like Delta Faucet and Liberty Hardware. Later, he transitioned to the software side, working for Live Software and currently serving as a solutions engineer at Autodesk, with a focus on Fusion Additive and NetFabb Additive products. This diverse experience allowed him to witness the industry's progression from sales to customer, and then to software development and education.The discussion covers several key aspects of AM's journey:Terminology Evolution: Kevin notes that when he started, it was primarily called rapid prototyping, which was a broader term. The term 3D printing emerged about ten years later, emphasizing the layer-by-layer build process, followed by additive manufacturing, which now encompasses a wider range of applications, including end-use parts.Early Applications and Challenges: In the early days, AM was used for form-fit parts and visualization, such as an eight-cylinder engine block that helped identify an interference in a water jacket. Significant challenges included Unix-based software that required manual input and high-end Silicon Graphics workstations. CAD files were often problematic, with issues like bad formats, holes in models, and incorrect parameters leading to distorted shapes or excessively large files. Support removal was also difficult, as solid plastic supports could easily crack parts.Technological Breakthroughs: Kevin highlights metal additive manufacturing (direct metal 3D printing) as a major game-changer, allowing for the creation of metal components directly from a 3D printer. The entry of big-name companies like HP into the 3D printing space also brought significant public attention and legitimacy to the industry. The evolution of software from OEM-specific to independent solutions (like Materialise and NetFabb) and eventually integration into CAD packages (like Autodesk Fusion Additive) has greatly enhanced usability and efficiency.Successful "Boring" Applications: The episode touches on applications that, while not always glamorous, have proven highly successful and valuable. These include investment casting patterns for complex metal parts (like those used by SpaceX for rocket bodies) and injection molding with conformal cooling lines, which significantly improve manufacturing processes and reduce costs.Staying Current and Industry Impact: With the rapid proliferation of different 3D printers—from hobbyist machines to high-end production systems—Kevin emphasizes the importance of staying informed through newsletters (e.g., Additive Manufacturing Media, TCT Magazine, 3D Printing Industry) and attending trade shows like Rapid and AMUG. He stresses that AM has profoundly impacted various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and design, becoming an indispensable tool.Future Outlook: Looking ahead, Kevin predicts exciting developments in bioprinting (organs, skin) within 5-10 years, as well as large-scale 3D printing in construction for houses and bridges. The conversation also delves into the growing role of

Send us Fan Mail This episode of AM Insider, hosted by Justin Hopkins and Dustin Kloempken, dives deep into the cyclical nature of innovation and adoption within the additive manufacturing industry. The discussion explores the recurring challenges and breakthrough moments that have shaped its journey from the early days to the present.I. Innovation Cycles in Additive Manufacturing (AM)The AM industry evolves in waves, with renewed excitement and innovation every 7–10 years. Companies have shifted from a “build it and hope” mindset to a market-first approach, identifying customer needs before developing products. Early sales often involved overpromising, but today’s focus is on targeted, strategic product development.II. The Power of Influencers and AdvisorsIndustry growth is driven not just by technology, but by trusted voices—visionaries and advisors who shape perception and build momentum. In the past, reliable information was scarce. Now, respected figures and platforms help validate and promote AM technologies.III. “Rising Tide” Moments in AMKey breakthroughs have propelled AM into the spotlight:Post-Recession Media Boom (Early 2010s): A surge in 3D printing coverage raised public awareness.GE Leap Nozzle (2011–2012): GE’s use of metal AM for a jet engine nozzle proved the technology’s real-world viability, especially for end-use parts. It shifted the narrative from cost savings to transformational manufacturing and spurred major investments.HP’s Market Entry: HP’s involvement brought credibility and scale, boosting global adoption.Obama’s 2013 State of the Union: Mentioning “America Makes” elevated AM to national attention.IV. Plastics vs. Metals and What’s NextWhile plastics dominate in volume, metal AM has seen faster ROI-driven growth, especially in low-volume, high-value applications. The next leap is expected within five years, driven by advances in materials, surface finish, and repeatability.

Send us Fan MailThis podcast episode,  "The Recurring Cycles of Additive Manufacturing," from AM Insider, explores the challenges and cyclical nature of additive manufacturing adoption Key takeaways include:The "David and Goliath" Problem: The industry faces the ongoing challenge of differentiating between expensive industrial 3D printers (costing $30,000 to hundreds of thousands) and affordable prosumer/consumer models ($500-$2,000) This creates a need to educate customers and manage their expectations, as many are attracted by price but lack understanding of capabilities.Recurring Industry Cycles: Challenges like customer education and market confusion are cyclical, reappearing with every "quantum jump in either a capability or a price". While the volume of inquiries surged with cheaper printers, the industry now benefits from more experienced salespeople adept at product differentiation.Historical Context and Prognostications: Early 3D printing (rapid prototyping) was first showcased at CAD/CAM shows like Autofact in the 1990s. Its primary purpose was to validate designs from expensive CAD systems, as advanced simulation tools were not yet common.Many "prognostications" about additive manufacturing's future (e.g., printing an oven knob at home) that circulated in the 90s' B2B space are now being reiterated by new entrants in the consumer market, often unaware of the industry's history. This influx of publicity, though creating "extra work" for established professional companies due to unqualified calls, ultimately helps grow the industry by introducing more people to the concept of additive manufacturing.Future Evolution: The next significant "quantum leap" in the industry is expected to be in the capability of affordable machines, not just further price reduction. This could involve machines combining smooth surface finish, color, and mechanical performance at lower price points, alongside the development of useful content that leverages these advanced capabilities. The goal is to evolve technologies for better output in profitable hardware.

Send us Fan MailThis episode explores the evolving art and science of product positioning in the additive manufacturing (AM) industry, highlighting how companies have adapted their strategies over time to educate markets, differentiate offerings, and manage internal dynamics.From Rivalry to RelationshipsIn the 1990s, the AM industry was a battleground of a few fierce competitors. Newcomers often overpromised due to inexperience, and the market felt like a zero-sum game. Fast forward to today, and the tone has shifted—collaboration and cross-company friendships are more common, reflecting a maturing industry with broader market opportunities.The Challenge of DifferentiationEarly AM companies struggled to clearly define their products. Without established terminology, they often created their own language to distinguish between offerings—like “printing a model” vs. “producing a part.” This was especially important to avoid cannibalizing higher-end products with lower-cost alternatives.Educating the MarketA recurring theme is the critical role of education. From the earliest days of AM, sales teams had to act as both technical and business consultants. Even now, many potential buyers are unaware of AM’s full capabilities. Successful product managers must anticipate buyer needs, guide discovery, and use strategic language to spark interest—even before the buyer knows they have a problem.Internal Alignment and FrictionPositioning isn’t just external—it affects internal dynamics too. As companies expand product lines, internal competition, politics, and sales channel conflicts can arise. Managing these tensions requires clear communication, thoughtful product segmentation, and alignment across teams to ensure a unified go-to-market strategy.

Send us Fan MailThis episode dives into the fascinating evolution of the term "3D printing", tracing its murky origins and eventual mainstream adoption. While early usage is linked to MIT in the 1990s, it was Stratasys that played a pivotal role in popularizing the term—driven by a need to differentiate its lower-cost Dimension machines from high-end additive manufacturing systems.Listeners learn how marketing strategy, sales training, and even a “swear jar” for misused terminology helped shape internal language at Stratasys. Meanwhile, the broader industry wrestled with clunky alternatives like “rapid prototyping” and “free form fabrication.”The real turning point? The expiration of key patents and the rise of prosumer machines like MakerBot and Ultimaker. As these affordable kits hit the market, mainstream media latched onto the catchy and accessible term “3D printing,” propelling it into public consciousness.Ultimately, the episode argues that while the industry tried to steer the narrative, it was the media—and public fascination with “3D” tech—that cemented the term, reshaping how we talk about everything from hobbyist tools to industrial machines.

Send us Fan MailThis episode features a discussion between Justin Hopkins and Dustin Kloempken of AM Insider and their guest, Phil Arnold, founder of Endeavor 3D. The conversation focuses on the challenges and strategies involved in starting and growing a contract manufacturing business within the additive manufacturing industry. Arnold shares his experiences, highlighting the importance of rapid decision-making, investing heavily in equipment, learning from failures, and building a strong team. They also explore the potential impact of artificial intelligence and geopolitical factors on the future of additive manufacturing. The discussion underscores the capital-intensive nature of the industry and the need for innovation and adaptability.Challenges of Starting a Service Bureau: Establishing and maintaining a sustainable additive manufacturing service bureau is difficult, requiring the right team, equipment, business model, and sales strategy.Endeavor 3D's Founding and Strategy: The establishment of Endeavor 3D in 2020, Phil's "all-in" approach to initial investment in equipment (starting with polymers and quickly moving to metal binder jetting), and the rationale behind having capacity before securing high-volume business.Importance of Team and Decision Making: The critical role of a strong, trusted core team in a successful business, and the need for quick, data-driven decision-making, especially in a rapidly evolving industry.Learning from Failure: Phil's philosophical approach to business emphasizes the importance of having a high tolerance for failure and actively pushing boundaries to learn and evolve quickly.Impact of AI on Additive Manufacturing: The potential of artificial intelligence to address the challenge of designing parts specifically for additive manufacturing, particularly for engineers not trained in this area, and the idea of using AI to generate more design iterations ("at bats").Geopolitical Factors and Supply Chain Risk: The potential impact of political climate, tariffs, and supply chain risks on manufacturing, and how local additive manufacturing service bureaus can provide a solution to these challenges.

Send us Fan MailThis podcast episode of AM Insider features a discussion with Brent Ewald, a software development manager at Autodesk, about his diverse career journey within the additive manufacturing space. The hosts, Justin Hopkins and Dustin Kloempken, explore Ewald's transition from mechanical engineering and R&D in 3D printing at HP to software development. Their conversation examines the evolution of software in additive manufacturing, the importance of data analysis, and the future potential of technologies like implicit modeling and standardized file formats. They also touch upon the skills needed for those entering the software side of the additive industry and briefly discuss the emergence of AI in this field.Career Navigation in Additive ManufacturingThe Crucial Role of Software in the Future of Additive ManufacturingAdvice for Individuals Interested in Software in Additive ManufacturingGeometry Representation in CAD and Additive ManufacturingThe Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Additive Manufacturing

Send us Fan MailThis podcast episode of AM Insider features a conversation with Derek McCurry, the owner of Stubby Nozzle Co. McCurry shares his journey from working in additive manufacturing marketing to establishing his own business designing, manufacturing, and selling 3D-printed car care products, specifically leaf blower nozzles for drying vehicles. The discussion covers his background as a mechanical engineer and marketer, the evolution of his business from Facebook Marketplace to his own website and major online retailers, and the benefits and challenges of using 3D printing for final product manufacturing. McCurry offers insights into the importance of marketing for small businesses, leveraging customer feedback for product development, and his experiences scaling his manufacturing through desktop FDM printers. He also touches on examples of other successful small businesses utilizing 3D printing and provides advice for individuals looking to start their own ventures in this space.The Leap from Additive Manufacturing to Real-World Product Development Derek McCurry's Background and the Genesis of Stubby Nozzle Co. Product Details and ManufacturingEvolution of Sales Channels and the Importance of a Direct-to-Consumer WebsiteThe Crucial Role of Marketing in Entrepreneurial SuccessViability of 3D Printing for End-Use ProductsAdvice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Additive Manufacturing Examples of Other Successful Small Businesses Utilizing 3D Printing Competition and Market Validation Future Product Development and Customer FeedbackMarketing Strategies Beyond Online MarketplacesSkills Learned from Additive Manufacturing and Previous RolesResources for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Send us Fan MailThis podcast episode features Amos Breyfogle, an experienced professional in the additive manufacturing (AM) industry, who shares his diverse career journey and offers insights on navigating the AM landscape. Key topics include how to enter, grow, and transition within the AM industry, the importance of people skills, career longevity, negotiation tactics, and the potential future of mass customization in AM. Amos also discusses his current entrepreneurial venture in New Zealand, focusing on outdoor sporting goods. Key ThemesNavigating an Unconventional Career Path in Additive ManufacturingEssential Skills for Success in Additive ManufacturingTransitioning within the AM IndustryNegotiation Tactics in the Job MarketEntrepreneurship and Additive ManufacturingThe Future of Additive ManufacturingQuotes of Note:“Can this person take something complex and make it easy to understand?”"My passion was really more about how do you help people be happier with their jobs and be happier with their career paths.""I think if you're not negotiating that as a employee or potential employee, you're making a horrible mistake."“The smaller the company, the Smaller amount you can get away with of kind of the counteroffer.”"People move here because it's an incredible place to live and have a life outside of work."Resources Mentioned:Podcast: Rick Rubin’s podcastLinkedIn: Gil LevyBook: Never Split the DifferenceWebsite: pivotio.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the AM Insider podcast, hosts Dustin Kloempken and Justin Hopkins engage with marketing expert Ryan Hayford to explore the critical role of marketing in the additive manufacturing industry. They discuss the unique challenges marketers face when targeting engineers, the importance of understanding customer journeys, and the need for effective communication across departments. Ryan shares insights on successful marketing campaigns, measuring success, and the balance between fun and practical marketing strategies. The conversation also highlights innovative applications in the industry and key resources for marketers.TakeawaysMarketing is essential for success in additive manufacturing.Understanding engineers' rationality is crucial for effective marketing.Webinars require consistency and thoughtful execution to succeed.Mapping the customer journey is vital for effective marketing strategies.Your website is the most important tool for lead generation.Avoid exaggerated claims to maintain credibility in marketing.Balancing creativity with strategic thinking is key for marketers.Fun projects can lead to practical applications in engineering.Getting buy-in from other departments is crucial for marketing success.Chasing funding opportunities can lead to innovative applications in the industry.

Send us Fan Mail     John Greeven, a former HP employee and current professor at Oregon State University, discusses his journey from the oil industry to additive manufacturing. He shares his experience working with 3D printing technology and its applications in various projects, including racing teams and land speed records. Greeven emphasizes the importance of a diverse team and a mindset that challenges traditional approaches. He also highlights the role of 3D printing in optimizing designs and achieving better results. In this conversation, John Greeven discusses the importance of leveraging existing ideas and using AI as a helpful tool. He also shares his experience in managing early adopters and the challenges that come with implementing new technology. The conversation touches on the value of personal networking and the benefits of partnerships between universities and businesses. John emphasizes the need for continuous learning and exploration of AI tools. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the potential of additive manufacturing in different industries and the importance of diversity in engineering teams.Diverse teams yield better results in projects involving additive manufacturing.A mindset that challenges traditional approaches is crucial for innovation.3D printing technology allows for the optimization of designs and the achievement of better results.Practical experience and experiential learning are essential for students entering the industry.The use of different 3D printing technologies depends on the specific requirements of the project.John Greeven's experience in the oil industry and additive manufacturing has shaped his approach to problem-solving and project management. Leverage existing ideas and build upon them to create something better.AI tools can save time and provide valuable insights.Managing early adopters requires addressing challenges and finding opportunities for improvement.Personal networking is crucial for professional growth and collaboration.Partnerships between universities and businesses can benefit both parties and enhance the preparation of future employees.Continuous learning and exploration of AI tools are essential in the innovation space.Additive manufacturing has the potential to revolutionize various industries.Diversity in engineering teams leads to a more creative and effective problem-solving process.

Send us Fan MailDanit Peleg, a 3D printing fashion designer, discusses her work in the fashion industry and the potential of 3D printing in fashion. She explains her research on developing sustainable and flexible materials that behave like real fabric. Danit shares her journey of creating the world's first fashion collection printed entirely using desktop 3D printers. She also talks about her website and online course where she teaches others how to create their own 3D printed textiles. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of 3D printing in fashion, including the need for faster printers and better materials. The conversation explores the potential of 3D printing and blockchain technology in the fashion industry. It discusses the concept of digital fashion, where garments are created and worn virtually, and the role of NFTs in securing and tracking digital fashion files. The conversation also highlights the democratization of fashion through open-source files and the potential for creativity and collaboration in the industry. 3D printing has the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry by offering sustainable alternatives to traditional production and consumption methods.Developing flexible and recyclable materials is crucial for the advancement of 3D printed fashion.Education and awareness are key in encouraging fashion designers to explore and embrace 3D printing technology.Faster printers and better materials are needed to overcome current limitations and fully realize the potential of 3D printing in fashion. 3D printing and blockchain technology have the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry.Digital fashion allows for virtual creation and wearing of garments, with NFTs securing and tracking the digital files.Open-source files and sharing ideas can democratize fashion and foster creativity and collaboration.The combination of 3D printing, blockchain, and digital fashion opens up new possibilities for designers and consumers.

Send us Fan MailIn part two we discuss the impact of additive manufacturing (AM) on orthotics and prosthetics, noting its promise for efficient orthotic fabrication despite being less discussed. They emphasize the importance of technical expertise and anticipate AM's growth in orthotics, particularly in specialized areas. Medicare's recognition of AM for reimbursement is mentioned, with a caution against overstepping billing boundaries. They foresee AM's continued integration in orthotic care, citing benefits like improved patient satisfaction and reduced follow-up visits. Additionally, they highlight AM's potential for global accessibility to prosthetic and orthotic care. Brent recommends resources like exploring old patents, YouTube tutorials, and the Prosthetics and Orthotics Podcast. The conversation concludes with optimism about 3D printing's potential to revolutionize prosthetic production through computational design and software. They address concerns about durability and reliability, emphasizing well-designed and maintained products. While not necessarily cheaper, 3D printing offers efficiencies and customization. They end by emphasizing AM's positive impact on patient outcomes.Resources such as exploring old patents, YouTube tutorials, and the Prosthetics and Orthotics Podcast can provide valuable insights and knowledge for those interested in the field. 3D printing has the potential to revolutionize the production of prosthetic devices, particularly with the use of computational design and software.Well-designed and properly maintained 3D printed devices can be durable and reliable, with data showing positive patient outcomes.While 3D printing may not be cheaper than traditional fabrication methods, it offers efficiencies and potential for customization.The cost of 3D printing should be considered in terms of the overall value it provides, including time savings and improved patient care.

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Justin, Brent, and Dustin discuss the importance of simplicity and the need to keep learning and evolving in the additive manufacturing industry. The main focus of the conversation is on Brent's work in orthotics and prosthetics, and how he has used additive manufacturing to improve patient outcomes. They discuss the challenges and successes of implementing 3D printing in this field, as well as the potential for scaling and expanding access to prosthetic care worldwide. The conversation covers various topics related to the future of 3D printing in the orthotics and prosthetics industry. The guest, Brent, discusses the importance of data and how it can drive innovation and improve patient outcomes. He also emphasizes the role of materials and the need for advancements in this area. Brent highlights the potential of AI and big data in creating customized designs and improving the efficiency of the manufacturing process. He also touches on the importance of protecting intellectual property and the potential use of blockchain technology.Simplicity is important in the additive manufacturing industry.Continuous learning and evolution are crucial in this field.Brent's work in orthotics and prosthetics has been greatly influenced by additive manufacturing.There is a need to scale and expand access to prosthetic care worldwide. The future of 3D printing in the orthotics and prosthetics industry revolves around data and the use of AI and big data to drive innovation and improve patient outcomes.Advancements in materials are crucial for the growth of the industry, and the role of chemists and material scientists is becoming increasingly important.The integration of AI and big data can lead to the creation of customized designs that are tailored to individual patients' needs and conditions.Protecting intellectual property is essential, and the use of blockchain technology and digitally minting NFTs can help ensure the authenticity and ownership of designs.

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, the hosts, Justin and Dustin, interview Danny, a guest with extensive experience in the additive manufacturing (AM) industry. Danny shares his journey in AM, starting from working at a 3D printing startup to his current role in R&D for a company developing a new battery technology. The conversation touches on topics such as the evolution of the AM industry, the challenges of working in regulated industries, and the importance of digital fabrication. The hosts and guest also discuss the term 'digital fabricator' and its implications for individuals who work with various digital fabrication tools. In this part of the conversation, Danny and Justin discuss the concept of innovation and its application in the 3D printing industry. Danny expresses his frustration with the overuse of the term 'innovation' and believes that true innovation should have a significant impact on people's lives. They also discuss the challenges of introducing 3D printing in traditional manufacturing processes and the resistance from people with different backgrounds. Danny mentions two innovative 3D printing applications that have caught his attention: the collaboration between General Atomics and Divergent for rapid UAV drone manufacturing, and the Jointless Hull Program by Rock Island Arsenal for creating jointless vehicle hulls using large-scale metal deposition. In this final part of the conversation, the speakers discuss the potential for innovation in the lighting industry, particularly in the design of heat sinks. They also explore the use of additive manufacturing in costuming and the freedom it provides for creating intricate and realistic designs. The importance of attending industry events and networking with passionate individuals is emphasized as a valuable resource for learning and growth. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the current state of the 3D printing industry and the perception that it is dead, with the speakers offering their perspectives on the market forces and challenges that may be contributing to this perception.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode Mac Cameron, CEO of Spokbee, discusses the challenges and opportunities in mass customization and personalization in the additive manufacturing industry. He highlights the importance of design and the need for talented designers to create customized products. Mac also discusses the hurdles in implementing mass customization, including the consistency and reliability of 3D printed parts and the cost of production. He shares his motivation for working in this space and the potential for AI and software advancements to revolutionize the industry. 

Send us Fan MailWelcome to AM Insider! Today, we explore the transformative realms of 4D printing and bioprinting, revealing potential game-changers. Picture orthopedic implants seamlessly integrating with the body using bioabsorbable materials. Envision a bioprinted pancreas as a functional organ substitute regulating blood sugar for diabetic patients. Delve into tissue engineering advancements, from tissue regeneration to custom organ creation.However, innovation brings responsibility. Our discussion delves into challenges in development, regulatory navigation, ethics, and safety. Future breakthroughs rely on collaboration, material science, and understanding biological-synthetic interactions.Embark on this journey into the future of 4D printing and bioprinting with AM Insider. Subscribe for insightful discussions on emerging technologies shaping our world.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, the hosts, Justin and Dustin, discuss the importance of considering factors like time, cost, and quality when deciding on the finishing of 3D printed parts. They introduce Paul DeWys, the owner and sales engineer of Forerunner 3D, a service bureau in western Michigan. Paul shares the background of his company's transition from SLA to HP MJF printing and the challenges they faced with limited color options. He explains how they discovered and adopted Cerakote, a ceramic-based coating from the firearms industry, for 3D printed parts. The discussion emphasizes the balance between achieving a perfect finish and meeting the practical needs of customers who prioritize functionality over aesthetics.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode we explore the Footwear Industry with Cesar Idrobo (Former Head Footwear Pattern and Sample Maker for Yeezy). Learn what it takes to produce some of the most innovative shoes on the market.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we talk about what is an Applications Engineer and take a deep dive into the world of 3D printing. Our guests discuss how additive manufacturing is revolutionizing the way we design, create and build everything from aerospace parts to medical equipment. We explore the various functions of an Application Engineer and what makes an AE go from good to great. Our guests also share some of the challenges and opportunities that come with working in this rapidly-evolving field, and how they are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in manufacturing. Whether you're new to 3D printing or a seasoned pro, you won't want to miss this engaging conversation with a real industry experts. Tune in now!