industry trends
Formnext forum Austin navigating the future of 3D Printing in an unpredictable world.
The 3D printing and additive manufacturing (AM) industry has always felt like it’s on the verge of something big, only to face setbacks. Just when it’s about to make significant strides, unexpected hurdles arise, setting it back. Formnext Forum Austin 2023 hinted at the possibility of a year filled with uninterrupted progress in the 3D printing world. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key takeaways from this event and why 2024 might be a pivotal year for the industry.
Formnext Forum’s choice of Austin for its inaugural event reflects the journey of the AM sector itself—full of fits and starts. Interestingly, the event will not return to Austin in the coming years; instead, it will move to Chicago in 2024 and 2025. This shift mirrors the industry’s history, adapting and evolving based on the available choices and conditions at hand.
Much like the AM industry, which has had to navigate through challenges, including the choice of event location, Formnext Forum Austin faced logistical hurdles due to its timing and location. But, it’s also a testament to the resilience of the industry and its ability to adapt.
Formnext Forum Austin proved to be a unique and social experience for attendees. Despite the scorching Texas heat and outdoor gatherings, participants found themselves enjoying the camaraderie. It was more like an indoor company barbecue with presentations, fostering connections and relationships within the AM community.
The significance of 2024 as a turning point for the AM industry became apparent during the event. Several developments, including Apple’s confirmation of using 3D printing for the Apple Watch Ultra, signaled a shift. This move towards using AM for consumer electronics suggests that the industry is on the brink of significant changes.
While 2024 holds promise, the AM sector faces two major challenges—workforce development and cybersecurity. The need for a skilled workforce in the manufacturing sector is greater than ever, and cybersecurity is essential for the industry’s growth.
To overcome these challenges, collaboration is crucial. Industry players, including 3D printing OEMs, need to work together towards a common goal. Samuel Manning from Markforged emphasized the importance of unity within the sector, paving the way for future success.
Formnext Forum Austin 2023 offered a glimpse into an exciting and unpredictable future for the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry. While challenges lie ahead, the spirit of collaboration and the resilience of the AM community provides hope for a year of unprecedented progress in 2024 and beyond. The journey may have been filled with ups and downs, but it’s clear that the industry is on the cusp of something transformative.
The Storm Before the Storm: Formnext Forum Austin Signals the Dizzying Year ahead for 3D Printing.
This entry was posted in 3D Printing 4D Printing's Network of Research/ Artificial Intelligence., 3D Printing Manufacturing Events/ Interviews/ Women in Technology., 3D/4D/5D Printing emergence., AI Tech/Innovation/Robotics/3D Printing/Business. and tagged 3D Printing, additive manufacturing, Cybersecurity, Formnext Forum Austin, Formnext forum Austin navigating the future of 3D Printing in an unpredictable world., industry trends, Supply Chain, Workforce Development.
3D Printing mergers for a successful integration
John Barnes, a consultant, expresses his perspective on a potential merger involving Stratasys, a prominent 3D printing company. As 3D printing advances and gains momentum across various industries, it is essential to balance technological advancements with human-centric considerations.
Barnes underscores the need to approach 3D printing holistically, considering how it can positively impact society while addressing potential concerns and challenges. Barnes values integrating 3D printing technology to align with human needs, values, and well-being. John Barnes further emphasizes the importance of maintaining the human element in the 3D printing sector. He raises several vital points: Considering the Impact on Jobs; Examining the Meaning of “Synergy”; Challenges of Cultural Integration; Customer Value and Different Needs; Importance of Growth and Value.
Barnes encourages considering the impact on jobs, examining the value of mergers, addressing cultural integration challenges, understanding customer needs, and ensuring that growth and value are adequately accounted for.
Consultant John Barnes on a Stratasys Merger: “We Have to Keep 3D Printing Human”.
This entry was posted in 3D and 4D Additive Mechanical Engineering Design/ Wear Testing/ Materials Science/ Custom PC Builds Raspberry Pi/ LED Projects., 3D Printing 4D Printing's Network of Research/ Artificial Intelligence., 3D/4D/5D Printing emergence. and tagged 3D printing mergers, 3D Printing mergers for a successful integration, Consultant John Barnes on a Stratasys Merger: “We Have to Keep 3D Printing Human”, cultural integration, customer value, growth and value, human-centric approach, industry trends, job impact, Joris Peels, technology integration.
