The ME Program last night provided 22 ME3D printers to its partner schools at an event at St Philip’s Christian College Waratah.
Matthew Connelly and Fletcher Thompson, who are the cofounders of ME3D, travelled from their base in Wollongong to provide a presentation for around 25 local teachers about the opportunities 3D printing can deliver.
“The ME Program is pleased to be able to provide local high school students with 21st Century tools, so that the Hunter can maintain its leadership in STEM education in NSW” Rick Evans ME Program Director said.
“I am very pleased that the ME Program has developed a strong partnership with ME3D. The business is modern and innovative and has strong community and educational ideals.” continued Dr Sleap
STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) is a recognised national priority, critical to the development of the smart workforce of the future. 3D printing has been identified as a key technology in these future industries which engages all elements of STEM and attracts kids to technology based study.
Me3D designs and manufactures affordable 3D printing equipment for the Australian education sector, from students to professionals. The company was founded in late 2013 in the engineering hub of Wollongong, New South Wales.
The three co-founders brought with them a mix of design, engineering and economic experience. Backed by their close ties to the University of Wollongong, the iAccelerate programme and funding through ongoing sales, they are moving quickly from selling 20 printers a month to 200 and establishing an exceptional reputation for customer service in the market.
Me3D has designed a range of 3D printers specifically for teaching additive fabrication and enabling other STEM learning objectives. They take a hands on approach so users don’t just observe the output of a black box, they connect with the printing process.
They manufacture through an Australian Disabilities Enterprise, providing meaningful, challenging work and a unique opportunity to develop futureproof skills.