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This 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 Manufacturing
• The Crucial Role of Software in the Future of Additive Manufacturing
• Advice for Individuals Interested in Software in Additive Manufacturing
• Geometry Representation in CAD and Additive Manufacturing
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Additive Manufacturing

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This 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
• 2. Derek McCurry's Background and the Genesis of Stubby Nozzle Co.
• 3. Product Details and Manufacturing
• 4. Evolution of Sales Channels and the Importance of a Direct-to-Consumer Website
• 5. The Crucial Role of Marketing in Entrepreneurial Success
• 6. Viability of 3D Printing for End-Use Products
• 7. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Additive Manufacturing
• 8. Examples of Other Successful Small Businesses Utilizing 3D Printing
• 9. Competition and Market Validation
• 10. Future Product Development and Customer Feedback
• 11. Marketing Strategies Beyond Online Marketplaces
• 12. Skills Learned from Additive Manufacturing and Previous Roles
• 13. Resources for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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This 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 Themes

• Navigating an Unconventional Career Path in Additive Manufacturing
• Essential Skills for Success in Additive Manufacturing
• Transitioning within the AM Industry
• Negotiation Tactics in the Job Market
• Entrepreneurship and Additive Manufacturing
• The Future of Additive Manufacturing

Quotes 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 podcast
• LinkedIn: Gil Levy
• Book: Never Split the Difference
• Website: pivotio.com

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In 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.

Takeaways

• Marketing 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.

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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.

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Danit 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.

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In 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.

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In 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.