Siemens Digital Industries Software has joined forces with the University of Michigan (U-M) Center for Academic Innovation to promote industrial adoption of additive manufacturing and equip the next generation of engineers. Their collaboration has resulted in the launch of “Introduction to 3D Printing with Metals,” a new Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) designed to provide accessible learning resources for professionals, hobbyists, and students alike.
The course was developed in partnership with Chinedum Okwudire, professor of mechanical engineering at U-M, and Dr. Nathaniel Wood. It delivers key insights into metal 3D printing methods, their functionalities, benefits, challenges, and real-world applications.
“Metal additive manufacturing has the potential to transform product development by enabling complex designs and mass customization on an industrial scale,” said Aaron Frankel, vice president of Part Manufacturing New Solutions Introduction and Additive Manufacturing at Siemens Digital Industries Software. “For this technology to reach its full potential, industry needs a skilled workforce that understands its intricacies and can apply it effectively. Our collaboration with U-M combines their cutting-edge research with Siemens’ industrial expertise to create an open, accessible educational resource that empowers the engineers of tomorrow.”
Professor Okwudire emphasized the broader impact of the initiative: “This course aims to expand knowledge and engagement in metal additive manufacturing across a diverse, global audience, helping to advance society through this transformative technology. Siemens’ support—both financially and through knowledge-sharing—has been critical in developing this course, and we look forward to building a more inclusive and well-equipped workforce in metal 3D printing.”
Hosted on Coursera, “Introduction to 3D Printing with Metals” explores both entry-level and advanced techniques, including powder bed fusion, jetting-based methods, and direct energy deposition. Participants will gain an understanding of pre-processing, design considerations, post-processing, and part finishing. The course also incorporates expert interviews and an interactive augmented reality experience, allowing learners to explore 3D printing concepts using their smartphones or desktops.
About Siemens Digital Industries Software
Siemens Digital Industries Software empowers organizations of all sizes to drive digital transformation through the Siemens Xcelerator business platform. With its industry-leading software, hardware, and services, Siemens enables companies to optimize design, engineering, and manufacturing processes—turning today’s ideas into tomorrow’s sustainable innovations. From semiconductors to full-scale systems, Siemens Digital Industries Software is accelerating transformation across industries worldwide.
