As the 3D printing industry continues to grow under the media spotlight, suddenly, everyone has an opinion. But when the occasion calls for an expert on additive manufacturing and its industrial applications – not just a talking head – there is one professional TCT will turn to time and time again.
Todd Grimm, Founder and President of T.A. Grimm & Associates Ltd, is a TCT Show + Personalize stalwart and long-time friend of and contributor to TCT Magazine. He is making a return to the event at the NEC in Birmingham this September.
Grimm says the Show means a great deal to him as an active member of the growing 3D printing industry in the US and internationally. “I am honored when TCT extends an offer to speak. The invitation is never expected nor taken for granted,” he graciously stated.
So, what can TCT attendees expect from Grimm this year and how is his presentation going to differ from his previous appearances? It seems the expert will be drawing on a familiar theme that seems to be emerging among the vast majority of TCT Show speakers – expectation management.
“This year I will build on my past TCT presentations that attempt to set realistic perceptions for attendees,” Grimm explained, adding that he wants to try to “reinterpret the bold claims of major disruptions and revolutions into practical, actionable ideas.”
The notion of keeping 3D printing’s feet on the ground – as well as maintaining expectations when discussing its applications and developments – is something of a prickly issue for the industry. Numerous experts have said lately that they do not believe the way the media represents 3D printing and additive manufacturing demonstrates the technology particularly well.
Grimm’s opinion of the way the media portrays 3D printing is in tune with his peers. “I do not believe that the media, in general, is delivering an accurate portrayal [of 3D printing],” he stated. “The common theme being there are big changes in the near term supported by an astonishing application.”
Grimm noted that the term “revolution” is often used in the mainstream media as it fumbles with the 3D printing zeitgeist. Indeed, there has been a flurry of headline-grabbing proclamations that do not necessarily represent the best of what additive manufacturing can do.
Grimm believes events like TCT Show + Personalize are what drives industry growth, because while reading about 3D printing and additive manufacturing is key to raising awareness – a face-to-face dialogue yields business opportunities. “Having a focused event allows interested parties to discover what the technology is really about and what is possible. Moving forward, the role will be as crucial to the industry’s success,” he remarked.
When Grimm steps off the stage, he is looking forward to exploring the stands. He is also keen to check out the new applications and technology as well as use the opportunity to network and tap into industry developments.
Grimm’s thirty minutes on stage at TCT will be enlightening for start-ups and established industry players alike. Register for FREE entrance to the TCT Show + Personalize and to the seminar sessions including Todd Grimm’s.
TCT Show + Personalize will take place 25-26 September 2013, Hall 3/3a, NEC, Birmingham, UK
For further information on the program please contact Duncan Wood, Rapid News Communications Group.
Tel: +44 (0) 1244 680222.
TCT Show + Personalize