Reads "The Future of Additive Manufacturing: How Agile Resources is Helping Companies Build the Workforce of Tomorrow*

The Future of Additive Manufacturing

How Agile Resources is Helping Companies Build the Workforce of Tomorrow

Additive manufacturing is no longer a niche technology—it’s a transformative force reshaping industries from aerospace to healthcare. At Agile Resources, we’ve been at the forefront of technology staffing for over 20 years, helping innovative companies grow by connecting them with top talent. Recently, we’ve been working with a new client in the additive manufacturing space, filling critical roles such as production technicians, mechanical engineers, and leadership positions. As we dive deeper into this exciting field, we’re seeing firsthand how additive technologies are driving innovation and creating new opportunities.

The Growth of Additive Technologies in the U.S.

The additive manufacturing industry is experiencing explosive growth. According to Grand View Research, the global 3D printing market was valued at USD 13.84 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.8% through 2030. The U.S. is a major contributor to this growth, with companies investing in advanced technologies like GE’s M-series printers, which are capable of producing complex geometries at unprecedented speeds.”Additive manufacturing is no longer just a prototyping tool; it is becoming a critical component of the production pro cess, enabling companies to create complex, lightweight, and customized parts,” notes Deloitte in a recent report. This shift is driving demand for skilled professionals who can design, operate, and manage these cutting-edge systems.

Agile Resources’ Role in Building the Additive Workforce

At Agile Resources, we’re helping our clients stay ahead of the curve by filling critical roles in additive manufacturing. “We are seeing U.S.-based companies installing advanced GE M-series printers capable of producing geometries that were previously unachievable at such speeds,” says Clint Hawkins, Vice President of Client Services at Agile Resources. “This technological leap is enabling R&D teams to iterate physical prototypes faster than ever before. It’s exciting to see the future of fabrication moving toward a model similar to the agile methodologies that revolutionized software design in the mid-2000s.”
When asked how Agile Resources identifies and places candidates successfully, Clint explains, “For roles like additive production technicians, we often tap into our network of large-scale contract manufacturing companies, such as Jabil and EOS. These companies are at the forefront of advanced manufacturing, and their employees often have the exact skills our clients need. By leveraging referrals and building relationships with professionals in these organizations, we’ve been able to identify top talent quickly. For example, we recently placed a production technician who came highly recommended from a contact at one of these industry leaders. The candidate not only had the technical expertise but also a deep understanding of high-volume production environments, which made them a perfect fit for our client’s needs.”
In addition to production technicians, Agile Resources has successfully placed a wide range of roles to support additive manufacturing initiatives. “We’ve placed Mechanical Engineers with specialized experience in Siemens NX, a critical tool for designing and simulating additive manufacturing processes,” says Clint. “We’ve also filled leadership positions, such as Compliance Engineering Managers who ensure that additive manufacturing processes meet industry standards, and Supply Chain Leaders who optimize the flow of materials and components. Additionally, we’ve placed skilled Machinists who bring traditional manufacturing expertise to hybrid additive-subtractive production environments. These placements demonstrate our ability to meet the diverse staffing needs of companies investing in additive technologies.”

The Importance of Local Talent and Education

The future of additive manufacturing isn’t just in the hands of today’s professionals—it’s being shaped in classrooms across the country. During a recent tour of a client’s facility, we met a manufacturing engineer who shared their inspiring journey into the field. “Their experience started with a 3D printer their mom purchased with a grant to teach elementary school students,” recalls Clint. “This engineer spent time helping kids design and print projects, sparking a passion that led them to pursue mechanical engineering and eventually a career in additive manufacturing.”
Stories like this remind us that the future of this industry is being shaped in classrooms today, where tools like Tinkercad are introducing students to the possibilities of 3D printing. According to EdTech Magazine, “Tinkercad has become a go-to tool for educators introducing students to 3D design and additive manufacturing. Its intuitive interface and free access make it an ideal platform for teaching young learners the basics of CAD (computer-aided design), preparing them for future careers in engineering and manufacturing.”
“Companies hiring for additive roles should look locally and recognize that high school students may already have the interest and foundational knowledge to contribute to this growing sector,” advises Clint. “Additive manufacturing has the potential to become a cornerstone of U.S. innovation, much like traditional trades have been in the past. By nurturing local talent and investing in education, we can build a workforce that drives progress for decades to come.”

Adapting to the Talent Gap

As additive technologies continue to grow, the demand for skilled professionals is outpacing the local talent pool in many markets. “At Agile Resources, we’re constantly learning about emerging trends and adapting our strategies to meet these challenges,” says Clint. “For example, we’re actively gathering referrals and campaigning to candidates outside our clients’ local areas. Every week, we have dozens of conversations with mechanical engineers, production technicians, and other professionals to explore relocation opportunities that align with our clients’ needs. By casting a wider net and building relationships with talent across the country, we’re helping bridge the gap between demand and supply in this rapidly growing industry.”

Conclusion

Additive manufacturing is more than a technological advancement—it’s a catalyst for innovation and economic growth. At Agile Resources, we’re proud to play a role in helping companies build the skilled workforce they need to thrive in this dynamic field. Whether you’re looking for production technicians, mechanical engineers with Siemens NX experience, compliance engineering managers, supply chain leaders, or machinists, we’re here to help you navigate the evolving landscape of additive manufacturing.
If your company is investing in additive technologies and needs top talent to drive your success, reach out to Agile Resources today. Let’s build the future together.