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Digital Engineering April 2026
In the latest issue of Digital Engineering, we take a look at the latest innovations in design for additive manufacturing, including the use of natural language inputs, social media cosplayers, and AI integration. The issue also includes a feature…
January Special Focus Issue: Design for Additive
In this Special Focus Issue of Digital Engineering, learn about the latest advancements in design for additive manufacturing, including new software tools, additive in automotive, custom medical devices, and more.
America Makes reports that its 2026 Additive in Steel Competition will take place April 15 in Boston, MA, during its spring Technical Review and Exchange (TRX), co-located with RAPID + TCT 2026. TRX will be held April 14–16 alongside RAPID + TCT, a large North American additive manufacturing and 3D printing event.
Building on the success of last year’s co-location, America Makes and SME will again convene leaders from industry, academia, and government in a single venue. This continued partnership strengthens collaboration, increases stakeholder value, and accelerates the advancement of AM technologies.
The 2026 Additive in Steel Competition also reinforces America Makes’ commitment to developing the next generation of AM talent. Expanding on the 2025 challenge, the competition invites university student teams to design and fabricate a functional everyday carry (EDC) multi-tool using steel-based metal AM. Teams are encouraged to engage with first responders, military personnel, and other service professionals to inform designs that address real-world operational needs, according to America Makes.
The concept of the multi-tool dates to ancient times, with the earliest known example being a Roman folding utensil from around 200-300 CE. Modern multi-tools, such as the iconic Swiss Army Knife, emerged in the late 19th century, using portable utility with multifunctional design.
“Inspiring the next generation to explore the potential of additive manufacturing is critical to our industry’s future,” says Ben DiMarco, technology transition director at America Makes. “This competition is a launchpad for young innovators to push boundaries, build real-world skills, collaborate, and redefine what’s possible.”
Competition timeline:
Three awards are anticipated, along with two honorable mentions for teams completing all phases of the project, from design to final testing. All required project components must be submitted.
Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.
As the national accelerator for additive manufacturing (AM) and 3D printing (3DP), America Makes is the nation’s leading and collaborative partner in AM and 3DP technology research, discovery, creation, and innovation. Structured as a…
Additive Manufacturing/3DP Information Alignment
Growing the number of additive manufacturing information assets within the America Makes digital storefront.
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