Ultimaker will donate more than 20 of its 3-D printers through its newly created partnership with
America Makes, the USA’s leading organisation for ‘additive manufacturing (AM) and 3-D printing technology research, discovery, creation, and innovation’.
The printers will be used in middle schools and high schools, as well as community organisations and ‘non-profits’ throughout the country, the aim being to “grow awareness, inspiration, and entrepreneurship opportunities for 3-D printing technology among young women and diverse groups and communities through educational outreach at America Makes”.
James Butler, Ultimaker’s vice president Americas, said: “We are passionate about making professional 3-D printers, software, materials, and services that are versatile and easy to use for everyone. With our partnership with America Makes, we aim to add sustainable value across our community and foster an environment of equity that enables the next generation of engineers to leverage 3-D printing and solve challenges with additive manufacturing.”
Josh Cramer, America Makes’ education and workforce development director, said: “We are delighted that Ultimaker has provided its 3-D printing technology. We believe increasing diversity of youth pursuing careers in engineering — particularly additive manufacturing — will not only benefit the additive industry but all of manufacturing.”
Founded in 2012 as the Department of Defence’s national manufacturing innovation institute for AM and first of the Manufacturing USA network, America Makes is based in Youngstown, Ohio, and managed by the not-for-profit
National Centre for Defence Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM).