What are the most effective resources for 3D printing professional development?

Numerous online resources, both free and paid, offer a wealth of information. However, I'd like to recommend a specific focus. While it's common knowledge that various 3D printing technologies operate similarly, the real game-changer lies in materials. If you're eager to enhance your 3D knowledge, consider delving deep into the world of materials. Explore how different materials function in various applications, grasp their unique properties, and, if possible, seize the opportunity to experiment with a variety of materials. This hands-on experience can significantly elevate your understanding of 3D printing.

I believe that online courses serve as an initial step in developing a profession in 3D printing. Understanding the engineering aspects behind 3D printing requires knowledge in materials science and intuitive imagination. I believe online courses can assist in familiarizing us with the terms and concepts in this case, acting as a foundation for further study and research through literature.

Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on 3D printing that can help professionals develop their skills. These courses cover a range of topics from the basics of 3D printing to more advanced techniques. There are many YouTube channels dedicated to 3D printing, such as Maker's Muse and 3D Printing Nerd, which offer tutorials, reviews, and other informative content.

There are many options depending on skill level and interest that vary in price. On the higher end would be ASTM's AM certification course or a design for additive course from MIT or Harvard online. There are many other options on EdX or Udemy that are taught by reputable experts at a lower cost, for those looking to learn more of the basics of AM. It's best to define exactly what you're looking to learn about ahead of time so that you can choose the best course for you.

For professional development in 3D printing, consider these effective resources: Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer comprehensive courses on 3D printing technologies. Webinars and Workshops: Attend industry-specific webinars and workshops to gain insights from experts and stay updated with the latest trends. Industry Conferences: Participate in 3D printing conferences like Formnext or Rapid + TCT to network and learn from leading professionals. Technical Journals: Subscribe to journals like 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing for in-depth research and case studies. Community Forums: Engage in forums like 3D Hubs or Reddit’s r/3Dprinting for peer advice, troubleshooting tips, and innovative ideas

A great source of relevant webinars is manufacturers of equipment themselves. If you want to learn about a 3D printer, who better to go to than the company that designed it? By checking their social media channels, websites, or better yet subscribing to their email newsletters, you'll be informed whenever a new webinar is coming out. One of the best parts about webinars is that (the good ones!) are live, meaning they are interactive and a chance to get questions answered directly from an expert. It's a great opportunity to speak to a world class engineer, even if only briefly, and from there you could even connect with them again going forward.

Many companies and organizations in the 3D printing industry host webinars and workshops. These can be a great way to learn about the latest trends and techniques in 3D printing. podcasts like The 3D Printing Today Podcast provide regular updates on the latest news and developments in the 3D printing industry.

What is currently poorly represented in podcasts about AM are educational topics. Sharing knowledge about basic principles of how AM works and which effects drive the part qualities would boost the level of successful applications in the industry. Examples for podcast series could be: Function of support structures, effect of part geometry on material properties, ...

I would separate the 2 things. A podcast is a really great platform, to understand, what happens in the 3D printing industry as a whole. Those podcasts, who are non effected by any manufacturer can freely talk about any companies, their status and their numbers what makes sometimes claim more credible. Also, you can listen them anytime, anywhere, with less mobile internet. Webinars on the oother hand are way more specific to a subject and also, because it's a more visual way, to show what are you talking about. Because the webinars are mostly live and way more interact with the hosts, IF they let it. Summary: You win by listening to both, but know what to expect.

Webinars and podcasts are always a great sources of information in the 3dp world. I personally follow on Linkedin the companies I believe they contribute the most with R&D, papers, Technological Advancements etc. e.g. Renishaw, GE additive, addup, SLM. Nonetheless, here are some good podcast to listen if you want to gain deep insights in this industry: -additive manufacturing media -go additive-3d printing pros -3d PD

The RepRap community continues to publish everything in the open, and answer any question. There's a community, and it's here to help.

A career in 3D printing can be improved by more exposure. Ensure to attend conferences, study research papers on developments in the industry, and communicate with experts in the field. There are also courses available on 3D printing; acquire an understanding of the basic technologies like Material Extrusion, Direct Energy Deposition, Powder Bed Fusion etc.

For 3D printing professional development, platforms like Reddit's r/3Dprinting, dedicated sections on forums like TCT Magazine, and communities on websites like 3D Hubs and Thingiverse are valuable. Engaging in these forums allows you to connect with a diverse group of enthusiasts and professionals, share experiences, seek advice, and stay updated on the latest trends and advancements in the 3D printing industry. Additionally, joining relevant groups on social media platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook can provide networking opportunities and access to a broader community of 3D printing experts.

Fóruns e grupos sem dúvidas ajudam nas dúvidas "mais cabeludas". Existem grupos disponíveis também em plataformas como Discord e Telegram, onde, inclusive, sao realizados compartilhamentos de projetos e STLs.

Communities can be wild places. It is easy for people to become fanatical about a brand or a technology, which can make them express their dislike, even in the most unsophisticated way, for things that are innovative, forward-thinking or just different about the same problem. It's a bit same, like sports. BUT! Don't forget, these are sometimes the best places. Here, you can both find people, who had the same probelm, as you, you can meet, speak, comment with people, from different levels of knowledge. Thinking together can often solve problems, no matter who we are. Also, these are the right platforms to make sure, you buy the right printer for the right application.

Real time hands-on workshops and brief case study and testimonials will help to understand the application specific projects that can solve the complex unsolved problems using Additive Manufacturing or 3D Printing. Real time involvement with Passion from ideation to final project can also help.

Eventos s?o realmente locais muito bons para se conhecer o que há de novo na tecnologia e o que as pessoas est?o fazendo. Contribuem também para o networking. No Brasil est?o comecando a acontecer, principalmente em cidades da regi?o de Sao Paulo e Curitiba, por exemplo.

In our in-person training classes, the trainees benefit greatly from visual, hands-on activity with the equipment that estabilshes the application of the written material.

There are several annual international AM conferences and trade shows happening throughout the year. Examples include Rapid + TCT, Formnext, ITAP, etc. These global gatherings bring together some of the most active AM practitioners, providing not only a one stop platform for networking, but also the opportunity to stay updated on the latest on AM. If you are promoting your latest AM solutions or technologies, participating in these global events also allow plenty of marketing, and more importantly feedback from the industry for future developments. If global travel is not convenient, there are also several local national level AM events in many countries. These provide equally good opportunities for network and growth.

Well, I got my current job at an Additive Manufacturing Expo. :) Although it's much easier to connect with other strangers in today's online world, the best opportunities for a common exchange of ideas will always be at events. A webinar about a printer will never give you the real hands-on experience of standing at a printer and seeing it working live. Also, the end results can tell a lot. Also, you could never know, who you meet with. I attanded to the Varinex Expo, where I met with those people, who now I call colleges. My first impression of them and their first impression of me immediately convinced everyone, that we have to work together.

Additive Manufacturing is a comparatively young technology that is usable with lower investment effort than conventional manufacturing. Understanding the correlations between processing parameters and resulting material properties in the AM part is key to achieve proper quality. In this context, open access literature is the best tool to democratize knowledge on successful implementation of AM.

De acuerdo a mi experiencia como profesional de la Manufactura Aditiva o Impresión 3D FDM, los libros, artículos, revistas de este tópico son muy importantes, sumado a los vídeos de la red; ya que contribuyen mediante la experiencia de terceros a disminuir nuestra curva de aprendizaje respecto al tiempo que sin este tipo de material llevaría; de igual manera en este ámbito es importante así como nos nutrimos de contenido, también generar contenido. Es por eso que debemos de sumarnos para agrandar la red de la Impresión 3D sobre todo en los países de habla hispana. Sí en algo puedo apoyarlos no duden en contactar con un servidor, será un gran honor y placer el poder apoyarlos o colaborar en este maravilloso mundo.

As a Hungarian, it's really hard to find anything in my language in this topic. Sadly, books and magazines are becoming less popular, but still, they would be really helpful for the beginners. Online content will be the only one here.

There are many books available that provide in-depth knowledge about 3D printing. Some popular titles include "3D Printing for Dummies" and "The 3D Printing Handbook".

3. Manufacturer and Software Training Programs: Companies specializing in 3D printing, such as Stratasys, Ultimaker, and Autodesk, often offer training programs and resources for professionals. These may include webinars, documentation, and hands-on training sessions to enhance your skills with specific 3D printing technologies and software. 4.Books and Publications: Explore books written by experts in the field of 3D printing. Titles like "The Innovator's Dilemma" by Clayton Christensen or "Fabricated: The New World of 3D Printing" by Hod Lipson and Melba Kurman provide insightful perspectives on the industry. Additionally, industry journals and publications offer in-depth articles on the latest advancements.

The only way to learn and grow in this industry is by doing. The best additive engineers (in my niche of metal powder bed) have end-to-end experience in the production process—they started out physically running machines, loading powder, flipping builds, and troubleshooting issues, alongside setting up print files and analyzing build outcomes. Combining this boots-on-the-ground manufacturing experience with a keen business sense and experience in a technical customer facing role is a highly valued skill set in the additive industry.

Get yourself a cheap 3D printer that is going to have a lot of problems and then get it working smoother than an expensive 3D printer. You'll learn far more than any of these other techniques in the process.

As others have said, learn by doing. Get a cheap 3D printer and go nuts. Download files from thingiverse (others are available) and try out different settings, placement, orientation. Design your own things and really mess around with settings. Push your printer to the limits and try to resolve the problems that occur. Just play

Application of 3D printing is very diverse with a big potential in the electronic and medical technology industry to name a few. A big aspect needed to be considered is the right 3D printing technique and the choice of materials. Dialog with experts by attending a fair such as FormNext and Rapid TCT is a good start to understand the capability for each type of 3D Printer.

If you have no background at all in the 3dp, you must have a solid and sounding knowledge of your engineering skills e.g. Material Science, Mechanical Design, Thermodynamics, programming, Electrical and electronics, etc. When given the opportunity, having a solid engineering skill-set will enable you to navigate quicker this "new industry" and to prove yourself better with your new employer. Authentic interest in this industry will take you as far as you want.