Additive Manufacturing stands as a symbol of innovation, yet its true potential lies in the hands of the next generation. We’re excited to introduce the 4th MGA-VDI Student Competition, supported by industry giants such as Airbus, Autodesk, Composite Technology Center / CTC GmbH (An Airbus Company), Deutsche Bahn, EOS, Helmut-Schmidt-Universität/Universität der Bundeswehr Hamburg and VDI Young Engineers, showcasing our collective dedication to nurturing innovation and excellence in AM.

What’s in Store?
This year’s competition revolves around the theme of ROBOTIC APPLICATIONS. Over the course of three action-packed days, interdisciplinary student teams from across Germany and Europe will embark on a thrilling journey to develop innovative products and craft comprehensive business plans leveraging the power of 3D printing technology.

Each interdisciplinary student team will be given a complex use case or a product development task around the topic of Advanced Robotics for mobility, industry and medical applications. They then have the weekend to solve the task using AM and taking into account technical, economic and ecological factors. On the last day, there will be a professional pitch and an evaluation by a top-class jury of experts and executives – and of course the winners will get great prices!

Who Should Join Us?

• Calling all students! Whether you’re a seasoned AM enthusiast, an engineer, economics major or simply curious about the potential of 3D printing, this competition is tailor-made for you. Secure your spot by registering before March 31, 2024, at vdi.de/mga.
• Companies, listen up! Are you looking for the next talented engineer for your company? Engage with the next generation of fresh minds at the Student Competition and help us shape the future of AM. Contact us now to get involved!

 

Join us on April 26 – 28, 2024:
Don’t miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to be part of the next wave of Additive Manufacturing innovation. Together, let’s push the boundaries of what’s possible and engineer a future limited only by our imagination. We can’t wait to see you there!

Since 2019, our Tech-Journey has taken us across the US and Israel, and now, in 2024, we’re thrilled to set our sights on South Africa. Join us as we venture into the heart of one of Africa’s most vibrant nation’s AM landscape, uncovering its immense potential.

Why South Africa?
South Africa stands out as a key player in Additive Manufacturing, boasting remarkable growth over the past two decades. From just one 3D Systems SLA 250 in 1991 to around 5700 machines in 2018, the market has experienced exponential expansion. Yet, it’s not just about the numbers: South Africa nurtures a thriving start-up ecosystem – not just because the government has dedicated funding projects for AM – and holds specialized expertise in aerospace, rail transport, and medical 3D printing. With nearly two-thirds of universities equipped with their own AM facilities, the country fosters a robust academic research landscape.

Why Should You Join?
Joining our delegation offers a unique chance to network with South African companies and fellow German pioneers in the AM field. Immerse yourself in a series of visits to relevant companies and institutions, gaining firsthand insights into the South African market. This fully funded initiative (please check your company’s De-Minimis regulations) promises a comprehensive exploration of Additive Manufacturing in a vibrant and evolving landscape.

What to Expect from our 2024 Tech-Journey?
Join us on this transformative journey to South Africa, where Additive Manufacturing meets innovation and opportunity. Together with the AHK Southern Africa, Berlin Partner für Wirtschaft und Technologie GmbH and Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI) we are organising every company visit and event in South Africa – you simply have to book a flight and your accomodation! Here’s a glimpse of our planned itinerary:

• Sunday, Nov 3: Arrival in Cape Town
• Monday, Nov 4: Company visits in Cape Town
• Tuesday, Nov 5: Presentation event and networking in Cape Town
• Wednesday, Nov 6: Company visits and networking in Bloemfontein
• Thursday, Nov 7: Presentation event and networking in Johannesburg/Pretoria
• Friday, Nov 8: Company visits in Johannesburg/Pretoria, Departure to Germany

Interested in learning more about this trip?
Contact us to join our informational webinar on July 3, 2024, to gain comprehensive insights into the Tech-Journey to South Africa. Don’t miss this chance to unlock the transformative potential of Additive Manufacturing.

The AM Forum 2024 under the motto of “Accelerating the adoption of AM” provided 3 days of innovation, networking, and thought-provoking discussions. Let’s recap!

On March 19, participants could join one of three AM Tours, showcasing the AM industry of Berlin – and of course we at MGA hosted one of those tours. Led by Naomi Nathan and Stefanie Brickwede the participants not only saw medical breakthroughs and cutting-edge mobility solutions in our exhibition but were also allowed a glimpse into the elastomer printer from Chromatic 3D materials.
Because it is easier to enjoy yourself with a full stomach, the attendees were also offered a unique culinary experience: 3D printed vegan salmon. This additional highlight further exemplified the innovative applications of AM technology.

Later, guests joined the Pre-Evening Event at Wasserwerk, powered by Berlin Partner für Wirtschaft und Technologie GmbH. Here, amidst Berlin’s dynamic innovation ecosystem, participants engaged in networking and collaboration with peers and industry leaders.
On March 20 & 21, as attendees navigated through thought-provoking keynotes and engaging discussions, the AM Forum buzzed with energy and excitement. Networking opportunities abounded, fostering meaningful connections and collaborations that promise to shape the future of 3D printing.
The Women in AM Luncheon, an event by women for women, celebrated the contributions of women in the AM field, featuring inspiring talks by industry trailblazers Marie Langer, Naomi Nathan, and Stefanie Brickwede. Their words resonated with the all-female attendees, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation forward. Are you a female representative of the AM industry? Join us for the Women in AM Summit on October 9, 2024. Learn more

The session “AM in the area of public service providers” explored the intersection of AM and rail as well as defence. The session, led by Stefanie Brickwede, and featuring Henri de Chassey from Wabtec, and Martin Huber from the European Defense Agency shed light on the potential of AM to revolutionize various sectors, sparking discussions that will fuel future innovations.
To conclude the AM Forum 2024, we held the meeting of our Working Group Defense, where notable figures such as Andreas Leupold of Leupold Legal, Mareike Heesing from Oppenhoff, and Martin Huber from the European Defense Agency, highlighted the imperative of discussing military applications for AM. Learn more about the group here.
As we bid farewell to another successful AM Forum, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants, organizers (Tobias Schmidt, Barbara Weingarten, Nyusha Anvari and the IPM Team), and partners for their invaluable contributions. Together, let’s continue to push the boundaries of innovation and drive positive change in the world of 3D printing.