AMUG Bestows Rare Lifetime Achievement Award to Industry Veteran

The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) has announced Gary Rabinovitz as the recipient of its Lifetime Achievement Award, the second in the organization's 36-year history. Rabinovitz, AM/3D printing lab manager at Reebok and a member of AMUG's board of directors, was recognized during the group's 36th annual conference for 24 years of service, hard work and dedication, AMUG reports.

Paul Bates, Rabinovitz's former manager at Reebok and a past AMUG president, presented Rabinovitz with the Lifetime Achievement Award. During the award presentation, Bates recounted his long association with Rabinovitz, having introduced him to Reebok and additive manufacturing as well as facilitating Rabinovitz's volunteer work for AMUG.

"Much of what Gary has done is unknown to the AMUG membership," says Bates. "But having worked closely with him for so many years, I witnessed his pivotal role in providing leadership, guidance and counsel as AMUG transitioned over the past 24 years. I have also seen his diligence in doing the work needed to make the changes possible and keep AMUG true to its mission."

An emotional Rabinovitz, after accepting the award, shared that the three priorities in his life are family, wrestling and AMUG. His wife, Mary, who has been a volunteer at AMUG conferences for many years, was present to share in celebrating Rabinovitz's contributions.

"This Lifetime Achievement Award means the world to me," said Rabinovitz. "I never imagined being a volunteer in the AM industry for over two decades and then being recognized for it. I am very humbled to receive this prestigious award from AMUG."

He also expressed gratitude for Reebok's support of his volunteer work over his 27-year career with the company.

"Gary has been a significant contributor to the additive manufacturing industry for most of his years as a user within Reebok," said Shannon VanDeren, AMUG president. "Gary has consistently contributed his energy, time and experience to varied organizations with the mission to further advance additive technologies. Across decades, the consistency of his involvement is what is so marked to me as I look upon his contributions." 

Rabinovitz's involvement in additive manufacturing user communities began with the Selective Laser Sintering Users Group, which merged with the Stereolithography Users Group to form what is now known as AMUG. In 2001, he became president. From 2002 to 2006, he was president of the Z Corp Users Group (unaffiliated with AMUG).

Without interruption, Rabinovitz has served as an AMUG officer or director since 2011. Over those 13 years, he has held the following positions: vice president, president, past president, advisor to the board, chairman, and director at large.

When he assumed the role of vice president in 2011, AMUG's future was unclear as it transitioned from a group focused on two technologies to one that served all users of all additive manufacturing technologies. With his efforts and those of others central to the restructuring, AMUG has endured and thrived.

Considering his workload at Reebok, Rabinovitz did not set out to be elected vice president in 2011. However, he unselfishly accepted a nomination when no other members considered running for this role.

Beyond his roles on the leadership team, Rabinovitz has contributed as a conference volunteer, coordinating the preconference giveaway bag stuffing and other behind-the-scenes activities. He has also chaired the Collaboration Committee and DINO Selection Committee since their inception.

Rabinovitz joins Thomas Sorovetz as the most honored AMUG member, having received the three most prestigious awards that the group bestows: President's Award [2014], DINO (Distinguished INnovator Operator) Award [2001] and Lifetime Achievement Award [2024].

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.