In the latest in a line of educational promotional activities by 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) including recently joining SME and America Makes as part of the advisory board for the M.Lab21 Initiative, the joint additive manufacturing industry leader has announced its participation in the Smartforce Student Summit being held at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2014, being held this week in Chicago. The company has a range of educational solutions at the event including its 3D printing kits and curricula for schools as part of it’s MAKE.DIGITAL platform.
The 3D Systems booth will demo the M.Lab21 21st Century Manufacturing Lab. M.Lab21 aims to bring industrial arts, technical and careers education right up to date with three dimensional design and 3D printing in high schools across America. M.Lab21 provides advanced software and hardware to encourage digital literacy.
3D Systems’ CEO Avi Reichental recently explained that the M.Lab21 initiative “…aims to support what the manufacturing industry has been calling for – to ‘rebrand’ manufacturing, connect industry and academia, narrow the skills gap and accelerate innovation.”
The Smartforce Student Summit booth is currently demonstrating 3D scanning, 3D printing with interactive design and demonstrations for students to directly experience these newly popular technologies. Attendees will be able to use the Touch haptic stylus to digitally sculpt and see their designs printed before them on the new range of Cube and CubePro 3D printers.
Leanne Gluck, Director of Social Impact for 3D Systems’ said: “Digital literacy through hands on, project-based learning using 3D printing technology is a key to instilling tomorrow’s skills today. Our long-term MAKE.DIGITAL initiative is delivering a full ecosystem of integrated tools, software and curriculum that empower students and education providers at every level.”
3D Systems continues to invite educators, non-profits and organizations passionate about educating for young people with ultra-modern skills to join the MAKE.DIGITAL initiative.
