Abstract Scope |
The Wohlers Report (2019) indicates that AM market continues to rise, with more new companies using AM, more investment made, and a higher number of new and innovative products designed for AM being released to the market, a trend that is predicted to evolve in the upcoming years. This rise is clear when it comes to the use of Metal AM technology it is also becoming clearer that Polymer and Composites technologies are also becoming more common in the industry. However, due to a fragmented training offer, which does not cover all levels of education, there is a lack of responses to those requirements and AM labor market’s needs for skilled professionals, this is true for Metal, Polymer and Composite AM. For this reason, the first International Professional Qualification System in Additive Manufacturing has been created and launched with the support of several organizations operating in the global market, in close connection with standards requirements and with the support of EU funds. This system managed by the European Federation for Welding, Joining and Cutting (EWF), is going to be joined by the International Institute of Welding (IIW) with the objective of offering a global network of qualification and training institution available worldwide. It started by focusing on Metal AM and is quickly broadening its scope for the development of training guidelines for Polymers and Composites, ensuring a full alignment with industry requirements and technological breakthroughs. This work will present the steps taken and the benefits, for industry, of the first International Qualification System that ensures Professional Profiles’ quality and transparency. This will emphasize the importance of the creation of the first International AM Qualification System and how it will support the industry in ensuring that the necessary workforce is well prepared and equipped to deal with AM. |