3D printing is a recent technology, but it is a promising one with many industries relying on it in their day-to-day operations. If you’re thinking of turning your passion of 3D printing into a career, you’re in luck because this is the best time to make your dreams come true! Since 3D Printing is a growing technology, the job market still isn’t overly saturated and still commands a generous pay. What are your options when it comes to turning 3D printing into a career?
1. Provide 3D printing services
If you want to dip your toes into making money out of 3D printing, you can provide 3D printing and design services. This setup is ideal for those who are still in school or who have full-time jobs doing something else. You can sell your design files online, accept outsourced 3D printing projects, or sell your prints online. If you are good at teaching, you can also sell online 3D printing courses.
2. Work in 3D printing-related industries
Aside from being a 3D printing service provider, there is no other profession that is centred on 3D printing specifically. Since 3D printing has many different applications, you would have to gain skills and knowledge in different industries in order to become a specialist. The only way to do that is to get a formal degree from a reputable university or college in the following disciplines:
- Software development
- Animation and design
- Biomedical technology
- Engineering
- Or in an IT subfield
How do I choose a course?
The degree you choose depends on the field you want to specialise on.
- Do you want to know all the technical aspects of 3D printing operations? Study software and development or IT.
- Are you more interested in the creativity involved in 3D design? Study animation and design
- Do you want to use your 3D printing knowledge in the medical field? Study biomedical technology.
Make sure that the curriculum will be comprehensive
Your course curriculum should be based on the subjects required in 3D printing, such as design, ICT, technology, maths, computing, and physics, among others. As for the skills, one must learn both the soft and professional skills needed to be working in a 3D printing-based environment. Soft skills include an eye for detail and team collaboration. On the other hand, you will have to learn mechanical engineering and operations, as well as CAD as a professional.
Enroll in a reputable institution
No good course is free, so make sure you enroll in a reputable college or university. You should also ensure that you’ll get a certification after this. This will help you prove your competence when applying for jobs. Many employers also require this from job applicants, so it is a necessity when finding jobs in 3D printing.
Learn beyond the course
3D printing is a constantly developing technology, so you would need to be updated with the latest breakthroughs, trends, and techniques. Even after you graduate from your course, you would still need to continue to learn the best practices of 3D printing as the technology evolves with time.
Work in 3D printing with these useful tips!
Getting a career in 3D printing requires plenty of studying but it is worth it since it is still an unsaturated niche. To get plenty of practice, keep challenging yourself with different 3D designs and prints. If you need materials, you can order them from X3D. Check out our full range of filaments and accessories here.