AMUG Has Announced All the Winners From Its Annual Awards

AMUG 2021 might have ended a few weeks ago, but news from the event keeps coming. Namely, the Additive Manufacturing User Group has officially announced its winners for its prestigious DINO, President’s and technical awards. Though the DINO and Technical Awards are announced annually at the conference, the President’s Award has only been award to 10 individuals through the organization’s 33-year history. This year’s award recipients were recognized for a variety of accomplishments, including their service to the AM industry, tenure, technical prowess and more.

DINO Awards

The first award recipients to be named were the four winners of this years DINO awards. The DINO (Distinguished INnovator Operator) Award is awarded yearly to four members of the organization for their additive manufacturing expertise and service. The recipients are recognized for their tenure in the AM industry, years of service, contribution to the industry and active support of the users group. This year the DINOs are Shane Collins from ASTM International, Giles Gaskell from Hexagon, Ana Neves from RAMCO and Robin Van Bragt from Eagle Design and Technology Inc. Commenting on the choice of the winners, Carl Dekker the AMUG president said, “There were many candidates that had the tenure required for this coveted award. However, that is just one criterion. To be a DINO, one must also give back to the industry and support AMUG. These four individuals rose above all others because of their actions and achievements.”

(left to right) Shane Collins, Robin Van Bragt, Giles Gaskell and Ana Neves. (Photo Credits: AMUG)

Technical Awards

AMUG’s Technical Competition recognizes excellence in AM applications and finishing. The two winners this year are Bill Braune of Dinsmore, Inc and Vito Gervasi of Cadens LLC. Braune was the winner in the Advanced Finishing category for his highly detailed and intricate scene, “Death: A Horseman’s Journey.” After using Carbon Digital Light Synthesis to print the fine details and subtle features in his creation (a noted benefit of the technology), he then applied painting and finishing techniques to add texture and capture the essence for a more dark, foreboding scene. He noted that his palette included 30 colors which were applied with dry brushing, airbrushing and washes to create gradients, shades and highlights. 3D printing polymer powders were also added to the surface to add a gritty texture.