Scott Crump, one of the co-founders of Stratasys, a prominent 3D-printing company, is set to deliver a talk titled “Adventures in Disruption: Inventing the First 3D Printer” at ETRL 101 on the WSU Pullman campus on Friday, Feb. 2, at 1:10 p.m. Additionally, he will speak at the Floyd Atrium on the WSU Tri-Cities campus on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 3, at 2:10 p.m. Both events are free and open to WSU students, faculty, and staff.
As a 1976 mechanical engineering alumnus, Crump is the inventor of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology, a key element in 3D printing. His pioneering work aimed to automate prototyping and bridge the gap between computer-aided design and the final manufactured part, now known as 3D printing.
Crump’s journey began in his kitchen, experimenting with pots and pans to develop the first FDM materials. His initial project, a plastic toy frog for his 2-year-old daughter, marked the inception of the first 3D printer utilizing FDM. In 1988, he and his wife founded Stratasys, specializing in 3D-printing systems. He served as the CEO and Chairman until 2012, overseeing the company’s growth to $200 million in sales, and he remains on the board of directors.
Notably, Crump co-invented the Infinite Build System, designed for constructing long, large panel parts using FDM technology. His FDM invention transformed manufacturing by enabling the creation of intricate parts and prototypes through a layer-by-layer approach. Currently, 90% of global 3D printers utilize his FDM technology. Recognized for his significant contributions, Crump continues to play a leading role in the 3D-printing industry and has received numerous awards for his groundbreaking work.
Moreover, Crump is slated to be the keynote speaker at the WSU Tri-Cities Carson College of Business’ Point to Success fundraising brunch event on Saturday.
