Partnership Forged Between America Makes and Ultimaker

Ultimaker plans donate more than 20 of its 3D printers through its newly created partnership with America Makes. The printers will be used in middle and high schools, as well as community organizations and nonprofits across the country. The organizations report that their shared goal is to "grow awareness, inspiration, and entrepreneurship opportunities for 3D printing technology among young women and diverse groups and communities through educational outreach at America Makes."

The Ultimaker printers, assembled in Memphis, TN, will enable young women across the United States to expand the potential for innovations with additive manufacturing as they learn, experiment and innovate with 3D printing. Ultimaker printers are already deployed in many schools and universities across the globe, and this partnership will further strengthen the commitment to make this technology more accessible.

“We’re passionate about making professional 3D printers, software, materials and services that are versatile and easy to use for everyone,” says James Butler, vice president Ultimaker, Americas. “With our partnership with America Makes, we aim to add sustainable value across our community and foster an environment of equity that enables the next generation of engineers to leverage 3D printing and solve the world’s challenges with additive manufacturing.”

“We are delighted that Ultimaker has provided its 3D printing technology—a critical resource we need to grow the representation of women and diverse populations in both technical fields and engineering—particularly additive manufacturing,” says Josh Cramer, Education and Workforce Development director at America Makes. “We believe increasing diversity of youth pursuing these types of careers will not only benefit the additive industry but all of manufacturing.”

Schools, teachers, leaders, members and partners are encouraged to visit americamakes.us/amnation to learn more about America Makes’ educational programs. Anchored within this site, potential collaborators will find information on academic programs, information on the partnership and submission forms for possible selection.

Schools and organizations must complete a partnership agreement outlining the collaboration and deployment of best practice educational assets with America Makes to be eligible for an appointment to receive an Ultimaker printer package. Ultimaker will also support programs chosen through a tailored software and informational assets package.

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