The ever-evolving world of technology makes it imperative for professionals to stay on the pulse of change, especially when it comes to the booming field of additive manufacturing (AM). To assist engineers, managers, executives, and even students in gaining a solid understanding of this increasingly common method of manufacturing and its benefits, Purdue University now offers Additive Manufacturing Certification Programs. The program’s first classes begin March 20.
As part of Purdue Online, College of Engineering, in collaboration with the Purdue School of Materials Engineering and The Barnes Group Advisors (TBGA)—a Pittsburgh-based AM consulting company—the online program was designed to impart AM know-how that can be instantly applied to projects.
“The online program in additive manufacturing is both timely in its subject coverage and creative in the industry partnership with The Barnes Group Advisors,” said Mung Chiang, Purdue’s John A. Edwardson Dean of the College of Engineering. “Innovating how we learn online is a key priority for Purdue’s College of Engineering.”
The online offerings include two 15-week certificates. They are formatted to be three five-week modules that are self-paced but provide instructor support. The modules are: Level 1 Certification, Additive Manufacturing for Engineers and Managers; and Level 1 Certification, Additive Manufacturing for Executives. The school hopes to roll out additional certification, including bi-monthly offerings and Level 2 certifications.
Whether new to AM or an experienced user of the technology, the coursework was developed to provide a shorter path to achieving a better overall understanding of AM from both the technological and business standpoints. The courses are led by experienced instructors with decades of professional and consulting experiences. During the program, students will gain a principle understanding of AM and how it works, the different technologies available and their capabilities, AM’s advantages over traditional manufacturing methods, the opportunities for rapid prototyping, its economic and business benefits, and more.
Interested in learning more about the future of AM? Check out 3D Printing Predictions for 2019 to see where the industry may be headed.