Andrew Allshorn is a long-term advocate of the manufacturing and 3D printing industry. With a career spanning over three decades in engineering, design, and additive manufacturing industries. Andrew’s work has always revolved around applications of advanced technologies and finding ways to improve them for the end user.
“On leaving Wolverhampton University for Art & Design, I started a job as a Graphic designer but had also been interviewed for a job as an Exhibition designer,”he recalled. “Four weeks later, I was offered an Exhibition designers job near Manchester, so I jumped at the offer, got on my bicycle with a rucksack, and went to start work at Engineer Design and Models (EDM Ltd), where I lived in a B&B until I found an apartment.”
Andrew started his career in 3D Printing as a Stereolithography technician at the University of Liverpool in 1993, worked for 3D Systems in the early years and since then, he has been deeply involved in several of the technical and manufacturing aspects of 3D printing.
Later in 2007, Andrew established AT 3D-SQUARED to provide a strategic consulting and support service for organizations involved in 3D printing (RP) and additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. Thanks to its extensive knowledge base. AT 3D-SQUARED can help coordinate all components vital to maximizing the capabilities of additive technology, software, hardware, materials, and the human interface.
Working closely with clients has enabled the U.K. based company to call upon a well-established global network of contacts and offers a comprehensive service, including machine acquisition, lease management, training, and maintenance.
With unprecedented access to several industrial sectors, including aerospace and automotive, Andrew’s experience and expertise have helped him participate in several global events and summits. In 2016, the Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) recognized Andrew for his path-breaking work in the additive manufacturing sector by awarding him the prestigious Distinguished INnovator Operator (DINO) award. Later in 2018, he was awarded the role of AMUG Global Ambassador, and from 2019 to 2022 he was AMUG Vice President. Andrew also serves on the AMUK Steering Committee, TCT Expert Advisory Board, Women in 3D Printing Advisory Board, and is a Create Education Ambassador.
A Different Organization
“I was brought up the old-fashioned way that a person’s handshake was just as important as a written contract, if not more so,”he said. “That’s the reason I like to build relationships with my customers as I look at the long term. My customers have become good friends, and several even came to my wedding earlier this year.”
Andrew feels there has been a great deal of hype revolving around 3D printing and Additive Manufacturing across mainstream and social media channels. However, once people understand that 3D printing is just another tool in the designers / engineers toolbox, it will be used correctly.
Being an artist and product designer, Andrew is always aware that things must change to keep up with the fast pace of current-day technologies. He has always tried to think outside the box and feels most challenged when someone says something is unachievable.
Looking at the Future
As an industry veteran, Andrew has realized that the 3D printing industry is moving at a breakneck speed, so AT 3D-SQUARED needs to change alongside to keep up with the pace. Working with companies like Michelin, AT-3D SQUARED can take legacy 3D printing technology, regenerate it and create something that can outperform new machines on the market. The organization can do this easily, due to its three decades of experience combined with its ability to consistently listen to the end users it works with.
Andrew also feels this industry has a great future, but people need to be adequately educated so that it has a sustainable growth and doesn’t implode over expectations. These machines are powerful enough to build nearly everything, but one needs to learn to use them correctly.
“The world of 3D Printing has an great future if it is used correctly. It is an amazing tool in our toolbox as users, but it is just a tool, like machining, handwork, or any other tool. The secret is using the correct tool or combination of tools for the application at hand. The world of applications will then explode.” Andrew said.
Always treat others as you want them to treat you. Be true to your morals, and never let anyone make you compromise on them for anything. Be true to yourself and always ‘Think Outside the Cube’