Manufacturing the Future: How This 3D Printing Class is Helping Train Tomorrow’s Skilled Workforce

Unique gifts. Functional signs. Replacement parts. Those are the kinds of things students are learning to manufacture from start to finish in CNM Ingenuity’s new Intro to Additive Manufacturing course taught in partnership with Roadrunner 3D.  

“We developed this partnership because Roadrunner 3D has so much expertise in this area and can provide students with the insights and learning environment they need to understand the ins and outs of 3D printing,” says Jeff DeBellis, program director for CNM Ingenuity. “Advanced manufacturing, which includes additive manufacturing, is also one of New Mexico’s priority areas for economic growth, making this a great opportunity for students to learn those in-demand skills.” 

The three-week course is broken into three phases, each building on the last. The first phase focuses on 3D printing fundamentals, while the second covers 3D design and scanning. The final phase combines those skills to teach the full production process. By the end of the course, students understand the 3D printing process, from troubleshooting printer errors to designing and producing custom items.  

For Pooya Rezai, creator of NooshJar, a digital-to-physical memory keepsake, the course helped him find new ways to bring his design concepts to life.  

“Working with the experts at Roadrunner 3D helped me understand how to take complex ideas, like the art and geometry of traditional Eastern European weaving patterns, and incorporate that inspiration into my product via 3D printing,” he says. “The power of this technology plus the human teaching element were incredibly valuable.”  

For Knathan Savage, the course was an opportunity to build on his existing knowledge and renew his passion for creative problem-solving.  

“I’d taken 3D printing courses before and really enjoyed them but was worried I would be in a little over my head with this course,” he says. “The structure was so approachable, and I saw how 3D printing is used in the real world. It also helped me approach simple things in a more fun way. Now I’m 3D printing my business cards because it’s a unique and memorable solution to a real need.” 

Noah Hull, production assistant at Roadrunner 3D and additive manufacturing instructor, encourages anyone interested in 3D printing to take the course.  

“New Mexico is already a hub for manufacturing, and as that industry continues to grow, so will the need for skilled additive manufacturing technicians,” he says. “Whether students want to run their own business or enter the workforce, this course will give them the skills and confidence they need to succeed.”  

The next Intro to Additive Manufacturing course will take place Sept. 16-30. Visit the CNM Ingenuity website for more information and upcoming course dates.