Additive Manufacturing Pioneer to Speak at Chamber’s Annual Meeting

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — This year’s Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber Annual Meeting will feature a keynote address by Slade Gardner, president and founder of Big Metal Additive, Colorado.

For two decades, Gardner has become one of the world’s foremost authorities, according to a release. His company, Big Metal Additive, produces satellite components, construction machinery repair parts, spacecraft development articles and automotive chassis, as well as a 21-foot diameter unmanned underwater vehicle and a 50-foot ocean capable cargo transport.

Gardner also worked as technology and strategy leader for implementing advanced manufacturing and materials at Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company Advanced Technology Center.

“Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, will soon become a trillion-dollar industry in the U.S., and the Valley, home of America Makes, the national additive manufacturing innovation institution, is at the heart of it all,” the Chamber stated in the release. “We are pleased to welcome one of the world’s foremost authorities on additive manufacturing to Youngstown-Warren, Ohio.”

The Chamber will also present the Spirit of the Valley and Spirit of the Chamber awards, and incoming President and CEO Guy Coviello will provide an update and preview of what’s to come.

The event is scheduled for 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. on March 17 at the Eastwood Event Centre in Niles. Registration is $40 for Chamber members and $50 for nonmembers. Click HERE to register.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.