Bromsgrove based 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, Reverse Engineering and Inspection experts Central Scanning have joined as Champions of Next Gen Makers.
Since 2006, Central Scanning has grown from strength to strength, offering a full service for 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, reverse engineering and inspection service for anything from teeth-sized objects to complete cars.
The growth in the Additive Manufacturing (AM) industry – also know as 3D printing – is predicted by many to be rapid and substantial, with the global value estimated to reach over $10 billion by 2021, whilst transforming innovation in industries such as aerospace, automotive and medical as they embrace the advantages of AM and implement the technology successfully.
Because Additive Manufacturing represents a paradigm shift in design and production, well-trained talent—engineers and technicians—are critical to maximising the technology.
However, according to a Deloitte study, many of these innovations have outpaced the ability of the broader manufacturing workforce to adapt: 9 out of 10 manufacturers are struggling to find the skilled workers needed, a shortage that is impacting production, quality, innovation, and growth.
“Young people find 3D printing and scanning cool and because of this it has the power to educate a new generation regarding a different type of career opportunity in engineering” comments Nick Godfrey, Managing Director of Central Scanning.
“Central Scanning is a trusted supplier to companies in a broad range of engineering sectors and we are passionate about bridging the skills gap and playing our role in helping to inspire and educate the workforce of tomorrow.
“That is why we have joined as Champions of Next Gen Makers. It creates a platform for us to easily engage with local Colleges and Schools, positively influence students about AM technology and career opportunities and share our expertise with budding engineers” concludes Nick.
Tom Mertens, 3D modelling and 3D printing lead at Central Scanning has experienced firsthand how a rewarding and challenging career can be carved in AM locally: “I found out about the position here by chance really, due to a family friend. I’ve been here five years now and absolutely love it, it has flown by and no two days are the same. It’s so important that we raise the profile of companies like this and the technologies that we work with to more young people, because if we do, more are likely to want to pursue a career in the sector”.
To mark Central Scanning joining as Champions of Next Gen Makers, Tom produced a short video which will be used as part of our Engineering Career workshops amongst other activities, demonstrating the end to end AM process from CAD design using Fusion 360 software, to 3D print manufacture and finishing.
Watch the video here.
Additive manufacturing experts set to inspire the next generation of makers
