Shaping Tomorrow: The 8 Most Influential Personalities in 3D Printing for 2024

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s an opportune moment to acknowledge the visionary leaders and brilliant minds who have significantly shaped the landscape of the 3D printing industry. From pioneering CEOs of prominent corporations to groundbreaking innovators and dedicated researchers, these remarkable individuals have been instrumental in transforming the additive manufacturing market. Their influence extends across local and global scales, driving advancements and setting new benchmarks for technological progress.

In an industry characterized by relentless evolution and complex challenges, these personalities embody resilience, enthusiasm, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. They are the driving force pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, steering the additive manufacturing sector into exciting new territories. For 2024, we have meticulously identified eight such influential figures who, in our view, have played a pivotal and transformative role in the ongoing development and expansion of 3D printing technology. Presented in alphabetical order by surname, this compilation serves as a fitting tribute to their invaluable contributions as we conclude the year.

Roger Antunez, CEO of Supernova: Leading the Charge in VLM Technology

Roger Antunez stands at the helm as CEO of Supernova, a dynamic Spanish enterprise that emerged earlier in 2024. This new entity was formed from BCN3D’s strategic decision to spin off its operations, allowing Supernova to independently focus on the dedicated development and accelerated adoption of its pioneering VLM (Viscous Lithography Manufacturing) technology. Mr. Antunez brings a wealth of expertise to this role, boasting six years of prior experience as Managing Director at BCN3D, where he remains a valued member of the Board of Directors. His profound understanding of the additive manufacturing sector positions him perfectly to guide Supernova’s ambitious trajectory.

Under Roger Antunez’s leadership, Supernova has made significant waves in the industry throughout 2024. A highlight was the official unveiling of “Pulse,” their innovative production platform designed to leverage VLM technology for high-performance applications. Alongside Pulse, the company also introduced a comprehensive portfolio of advanced materials specifically engineered to be compatible with their patented VLM process. Demonstrating their strategic vision, Supernova further announced the establishment of a specialized “Defense and Space” business unit, signaling their commitment to developing cutting-edge materials tailored for these critical and demanding industries. The year culminated in Supernova’s inaugural participation as an exhibitor at Formnext, the world’s leading exhibition for additive manufacturing, where the company’s innovative spirit was recognized with a prestigious nomination for the event’s “Startup Award.” These accomplishments underscore Supernova’s rapid ascent and Mr. Antunez’s impactful leadership in the 3D printing landscape.

Stefanie Brickwede: Championing Additive Manufacturing in Mobility and Beyond

Stefanie Brickwede holds a unique and influential dual role in the additive manufacturing world, serving as the Managing Director of Mobility Goes Additive (MGA) since 2016 and concurrently as the Head of Additive Manufacturing at Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national rail company, since 2015. Her extensive management experience spans both the additive manufacturing and mobility sectors, making her a formidable leader in driving technological integration across diverse industries. Under her astute guidance, the Mobility Goes Additive network has experienced remarkable and sustained growth, solidifying its reputation as a pivotal force within the additive manufacturing and transportation landscape, particularly within the robust German market.

Today, MGA boasts an impressive membership of over 150 entities across Europe and globally, effectively uniting a diverse array of industry experts. This collaborative network actively fosters the widespread adoption of additive manufacturing technology, facilitating knowledge exchange and promoting innovative applications. Stefanie Brickwede’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in the network’s expansion, overseeing the successful launch of significant initiatives in recent years. These include the specialized “Medical Goes Additive” section, which addresses the unique demands of the healthcare sector, and the highly impactful “Women in Additive Manufacturing” conference, dedicated to promoting diversity and empowering female professionals within the industry. Her enduring commitment continues to propel 3D printing forward in critical sectors.

Amy Elliott: Innovating with 3D Printing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory

At the prestigious Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a leading American multi-program science and technology hub, pioneering work in additive manufacturing is constantly underway. Within this environment, Dr. Amy Elliott stands out as a distinguished scientist, specializing in the transformative field of 3D printing. Dr. Elliott possesses a profound engineering background, fortified by three years of invaluable experience as a cooperative engineer at NASA, a testament to her foundational expertise in advanced technological applications. Her contributions extend beyond scientific research; she also adeptly leads the Robotics and Intelligent Systems group at ORNL, guiding cutting-edge developments at the intersection of robotics and advanced manufacturing.

Throughout 2024, ORNL has garnered significant attention for numerous projects that brilliantly showcase the versatility and impact of 3D printing technology, many of which bear the imprint of Dr. Elliott’s involvement and her team’s dedication. Notable achievements include the innovative creation of 3D-printed nesting structures designed to aid in the conservation of endangered bat species, demonstrating a powerful application of additive manufacturing for ecological preservation. Furthermore, her team contributed to the development of robust 3D-printed slides for hydroelectric dams, addressing critical infrastructure needs with novel solutions. Another significant advancement involved the creation of a sophisticated system aimed at substantially improving quality control processes within additive manufacturing, ensuring higher precision and reliability. These diverse and impactful initiatives are a direct result of the collective brilliance of ORNL’s researchers and scientists, with Dr. Amy Elliott playing a crucial role. Beyond her laboratory work, Dr. Elliott has also become a recognizable advocate for additive manufacturing, making her mark through engaging educational content presented on television, effectively broadening public understanding and appreciation for this revolutionary technology.

Arik Kaufman, CEO of Steakholder Foods: Pioneering 3D-Printed Sustainable Food

Arik Kaufman, as the visionary CEO and co-founder of Steakholder Foods, is at the forefront of a culinary revolution. This innovative Israeli company leverages sophisticated 3D printing technology to create remarkably realistic, plant-based substitutes for traditional meat, fish, and seafood. Under Kaufman’s leadership, Steakholder Foods has experienced exponential growth over the past two years, marked by the successful launch of an array of unique and groundbreaking products. These offerings are meticulously engineered to replicate the authentic texture and mouthfeel of their animal-based counterparts, including plant-based steaks, squid, shrimp, and more, appealing to a global market seeking sustainable and ethical food alternatives.

The year 2024 proved to be particularly significant for Steakholder Foods and Arik Kaufman. A major milestone was achieved when the company’s pioneering 3D-printed food products received crucial regulatory approval, allowing them to enter the discerning US market for the very first time. This opened vast new opportunities for widespread adoption and consumer access. Furthermore, Steakholder Foods strategically partnered with UMAMI Bioworks, a collaboration aimed at substantially increasing the production capacity of their innovative 3D-printed fish fillets. This partnership underscores an ambitious goal to market these sustainable products internationally, addressing growing global demand. Reflecting on these advancements, Arik Kaufman emphasized the core values driving his company: “Our advanced 3D printing technologies are not only a testament to innovation, but also a commitment to sustainability and health. These products represent our mission: to offer consumers food choices that are not only delicious, but also responsible for the planet.” His leadership continues to position Steakholder Foods as a trailblazer in the intersection of food technology and additive manufacturing for a sustainable future.

Rajeev Kulkarni: A Veteran Driving Innovation in Advanced Additive Manufacturing

Our list of influential additive manufacturing personalities for 2024 would be incomplete without acknowledging Rajeev Kulkarni, a true veteran and luminary in the realm of 3D printing. With an impressive career spanning over three decades in the industry, Mr. Kulkarni has consistently been at the forefront of innovation. His journey began in 1995 at 3D Systems, a pioneering company in the field, where he had the distinct privilege of collaborating with Chuck Hull, widely recognized as the inventor of stereolithography and a founding father of 3D printing. During his extensive tenure, Kulkarni played a crucial role in the initial 3D printing revolution, contributing significantly to the development and refinement of groundbreaking solutions that laid the foundation for modern additive manufacturing.

Mr. Kulkarni remained a driving force at 3D Systems until recently, stepping down last year from his pivotal role as Vice President of Strategy and Development. In the interim period, he cultivated a remarkable track record as an angel investor and entrepreneur, identifying and nurturing promising ventures within the tech ecosystem. The year 2024 marked a new chapter in his distinguished career as he assumed the position of Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) at Axtra3D. Axtra3D is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the most innovative companies in the domain of 3D resin printing, pushing boundaries with its advanced technologies. Furthermore, for several months, Kulkarni has also served as the Chairman of the Board for Caracol, a rapidly ascending Italian company. Caracol is making significant strides on the international stage, particularly in North America, and is highly acclaimed for its cutting-edge LFAM (Large Format Additive Manufacturing) solutions. Rajeev Kulkarni’s continued leadership and strategic insights are invaluable assets to these forward-thinking companies, reinforcing his enduring impact on the trajectory of additive manufacturing technology.

Josefine Lissner: Engineering the Future with AI and 3D Printing at LEAP 71

Josefine Lissner stands as an eminent aerospace engineer and a true pioneer in the specialized field of computer engineering. Her career trajectory showcases a remarkable dedication to pushing technological boundaries. Notably, during her tenure as the head of strategic engineering at Hyperganic, Lissner achieved significant milestones. She was instrumental in the development of the world’s largest 3D-printed Aerospike rocket engine, a groundbreaking feat in itself. More impressively, this engine was the first rocket engine in history to be entirely algorithmically designed, showcasing the immense potential of computational design in complex engineering. Her leadership also extended to guiding a team focused on developing advanced calculation and innovative manufacturing methods, laying the groundwork for future industrial applications.

Since 2023, Josefine Lissner has channeled her pioneering spirit into her own venture, serving as the founder and CEO of LEAP 71. This company is singularly dedicated to accelerating technological progress through the innovative application of computer engineering, particularly at the intersection of AI and additive manufacturing. The year 2024 brought a significant triumph for LEAP 71 under Lissner’s direction. Utilizing their proprietary “Noyron” software, the company successfully developed the complete engine model for the TKL-5 rocket. What makes this achievement truly revolutionary is that the design process was accomplished without direct human intervention, a testament to the power of advanced algorithmic design. Subsequently, this sophisticated design was brought to life through precise additive manufacturing techniques. This accomplishment represents a monumental milestone in the aerospace industry, demonstrating the profound capabilities of AI-driven design coupled with 3D printing to create complex, high-performance components. Josefine Lissner’s work at LEAP 71 is not merely about creating parts; it’s about reimagining the entire engineering and manufacturing paradigm for critical industries.

Stephanie Willerth: Advancing Medical 3D Printing with Axolotl Biosciences

The medical sector continues to be one of the most transformative application areas for 3D printing technology, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare. It comes as no surprise, then, that numerous innovative companies in this specialized field have captured significant attention in 2024. Prominent among them is the Canadian firm Axolotl Biosciences, expertly led by its visionary CEO, Stephanie Willerth. Dr. Willerth brings a robust academic and research background to her entrepreneurial venture. Prior to establishing Axolotl Biosciences, she served as a distinguished Professor of Biomedical Engineering and held the position of Acting Director of the Biomedical Research Centre at the University of Victoria, Canada, underscoring her deep expertise in cellular biology and engineering.

In 2020, Dr. Willerth founded Axolotl Biosciences with a clear and ambitious mission: to develop advanced biological inks specifically engineered for the 3D bioprinting of human tissue. This pioneering work is critical for applications ranging from drug discovery and disease modeling to regenerative medicine. A key differentiator for Axolotl Biosciences’ bio-inks is their proven ability to maintain exceptionally high levels of cell viability post-manufacture, a crucial factor for the success of complex bioprinted constructs. The year 2024 marked a significant recognition of the company’s innovative efforts when Axolotl Biosciences proudly secured the coveted Formnext 2024 Startup Award. This prestigious honor, presented to Ms. Willerth at the awards ceremony, celebrated the company’s groundbreaking contributions and its potential to revolutionize the field of medical additive manufacturing. Stephanie Willerth’s leadership is not just driving a company; it’s propelling the future of biofabrication and personalized medicine with 3D printing.

Dr. Lei Xue, CEO of BLT Technologies: Innovating Metal Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace

Bright Laser Technologies, universally known as BLT, has consistently been a prominent name in the headlines throughout 2024, demonstrating its leadership in the additive manufacturing sector. Consequently, including its dynamic CEO, Dr. Lei Xue, among our most influential personalities of the year is an absolute imperative. Under Dr. Xue’s guidance, BLT has particularly distinguished itself through remarkable advancements within the highly demanding aerospace field. Their commitment to innovation was underscored by the introduction of the groundbreaking BLT-Ti65 metal, a novel alloy specifically engineered for both L-PBF (Laser Powder Bed Fusion) and DED (Direct Energy Deposition) processes. This pioneering material is characterized by its exceptional low-density and high-strength properties, meticulously designed to meet and exceed the stringent requirements of the aerospace industry, where performance and weight are paramount.

Beyond material innovation, BLT Technologies, under Dr. Lei Xue’s strategic vision, played a crucial role in several high-profile rocket projects in 2024, showcasing the practical application and reliability of their metal additive manufacturing solutions. These included significant contributions to LandSpace’s ZhuQue-3 rocket, which successfully launched in January, and Orienspace’s Gravity-1 rocket, which achieved its impressive liftoff in April. Both projects extensively utilized components designed and produced through additive manufacturing, proving the technology’s readiness for critical space applications. Further solidifying its market presence, BLT launched its advanced BLT-S450 3D printer this year, a cutting-edge system that was also prominently showcased at Formnext 2024, drawing considerable industry attention. Dr. Lei Xue’s leadership continues to position BLT at the forefront of developing robust and high-performance metal 3D printing technologies, especially for the burgeoning aerospace and defense industries.

The year 2024 has undoubtedly been a landmark period for additive manufacturing, propelled forward by the exceptional vision and relentless dedication of these influential individuals. Their diverse contributions, spanning from innovative material science and advanced bioprinting to aerospace engineering and sustainable food production, underscore the vast and evolving potential of 3D printing technology. These leaders are not just developing new products; they are shaping industries, solving critical global challenges, and inspiring the next generation of innovators.

We are eager to hear your thoughts! What do you make of our selection of 2024 additive manufacturing personalities? Share your insights and comments below, or engage with us on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages. To stay continuously updated with the very latest developments and breaking news in the world of 3D printing, be sure to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, delivered directly to your inbox. For a deeper dive into the technology, you can also explore all our comprehensive videos on our YouTube channel, offering visual insights into the future of additive manufacturing.