#Working3D: Seven Questions for an Additive Manufacturing Professor

Additive manufacturing is no longer just an emerging technology, it has established itself as a key tool to transform the industry. In this context, training future professionals in 3D printing is not an option, rather a necessity. Technological training centers such as IMH Campus, located in Spain, are leading this change from classrooms and workshops. In this interview, we spoke with Ruben Odriozola, a professor of additive manufacturing at the IMH Campus, to learn firsthand how this technology is integrated into the training of technicians and engineers. Also, how teaching is in a sector that is advancing at great speed, and why 3D technologies have become an essential competence for the industrial profiles of the future.

3DN: Could you introduce yourself?

My name is Ruben Odriozola, professor and Head of the Additive Manufacturing Department of the IMH (Machine Tool Institute) of Elgoibar in Gipuzkoa. I have been a mechanical workshop teacher at the IMH since 2000, teaching conventional machining, CNC, automated systems, etc. But three years ago, I switched to additive manufacturing.

Photo Credits: Ruben Odriozola

This is my third course as an AM professor, teaching the subjects of modeling, laminating and 3D printing, post-processing and handling, repair and costs of additive manufacturing. In addition, I am responsible for the Advanced Manufacturing and Autonomous Robotics Nodes of the Tknika center and I am involved in two projects. One in Metal Additive Manufacturing with Tknika and another one called Additive vs. Machining in collaboration with other vocational training centers in the Basque Country.