3D printing is one of the key future technologies, enabling businesses to cut costs, reduce time to market, produce stronger and lighter parts, improve efficiency, and solve a myriad of other challenges. That’s why it’s important for students to have an understanding of the technology in the 21st century global economy.

Today’s Students, Tomorrow’s Workforce

As the 3D printing industry grows, the landscape will change for job seekers, so it’s critical for today’s students to become fluent with the programs and machines required for 3D printing.

Jobs that are expected to be created or get a boost from 3D printing include:

1. 3D Design: 3D printing relies heavily on designers who can take a product idea and translate it into something that can feasibly be brought to life.
2. 3D Computer-aided Design (CAD) Modeling: CAD experts have the skills and expertise to convert product designs into digital blueprints that 3D printers need.
3. Research and Development (R&D): Jobs will open up for forward-thinking R&D professionals who understand the intersection of tech and consumer products while keeping an eye on the bottom line.
4. Biological and Scientific Modeling: More engineers, designers and modelers with biomedical or scientific backgrounds will be needed to further innovate and produce highly advanced 3D-printed products.
5. Architecture/Construction Modeling: In the construction industry, 3D modelers may replace current 2D construction planning solutions.
6. Education: Schools are developing 3D printing programs at all grade levels, which will open up jobs for educators with a background in the industry who can teach the technical and business aspects of this technology.
7. Lawyers and Legal Professionals: As a creative field, the 3D printing industry is wide open to legal issues, prompting a need for more lawyers and legal professionals who specialize in intellectual property (IP) rights.
8. Business Opportunities: As 3D printing technologies advance and become readily accessible for in-home use, new business opportunities will increase for those offering on-site and remote services, new product and industrial designers, and computer-aided design specialists.
9. Franchise Opportunities: 3D-printing-as-a-service vendors can bring this technology to the masses by providing franchises to local businesses and entrepreneurs who’d like to provide personalized, in-person services to local customers.
10. Operations and Administrative Positions: As the industry grows, new and established 3D printing companies will need people to keep the business running smoothly, including operations and administrative staff, analysts, finance and sales professionals, and retail employees.