In January, GE stated, “We are looking to support a diverse cross-section of schools, representing a variety of sizes, types and cultures from around the world.”
Primary and secondary schools all over the world, including the US and Canada in North America; Germany, Spain, and the UK in Europe; and China and India in Asia, will have access to the AEP’s 3D printer packages. Each package will include one XYZprinting printer and one Polar 3D printer, both of which are Polar Cloud-enabled polymer printers.
Polar 3D acquired STEAMtrax from 3D Systems back in 2016. The innovative curriculum integrates 3D printing technology and engineering with core academic knowledge in several STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) subject areas. Each lesson uses 3D design, 3D printing, and 3D scanning technology as an important part of the STEAMtrax Engineering Process, and students can participate in relevant learning scenarios that encourage problem solving, communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. The curriculum modules offer hands-on learning stations and are available in print or digital platforms.
Mohammad Ehteshami, Vice President of GE Additive, said, “Additive manufacturing and 3D printing is revolutionizing the way we think about designing and manufacturing products. We want a pipeline of engineering talent that have additive in their DNA. This education program is our way of supporting that goal.”
In addition to providing the primary and secondary schools with desktop 3D printers as part of the first year of its AEP, GE will be giving eight universities a $250K Concept Laser MLAB Cusing 100R metal 3D printer.
- Auburn University
- Boston University
- Iowa State University
- North Carolina State University
- Ohio State University
- University of Cincinnati
- U.S. Naval Academy
- University of New South Wales
GE has been an active supporter of education for over 100 years, focusing on the areas that can improve student outcomes; the company has invested over $225 million to support public education in just the US. By helping educational institutions give students access to 3D printers, the worldwide adoption of additive manufacturing is accelerated. GE Additive will deliver 3D printers to the chosen schools later this year. If your school is interested in the AEP, GE will continue to provide 3D printers to schools over the next four years; the next application window, which will be open during the first quarter of 2018, will be announced on the GE Additive website. Discuss in the GE Additive Education forum at 3DPB.com.