Election to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) is among the highest honors for a professional engineer in the United States. When you know that, you know it’s a huge moment for the AM industry to count an Additive Manufacturing pioneer in this academy.
3D Systems’ cofounder Charles (Chuck) Hull was chosen along with 127 new members (and 22 international members) to receive this honor for the NAE Class of 2025.
From stereolithography to 3D Systems
As a reminder, Mr. Hull pioneered the development of 3D printing while Vice President of Engineering at UVP, Inc. (now Analytik Jena), a manufacturer of ultraviolet light sources. His work on fusing UV resins into 3D structures for prototyping led to the first 3D-printed part in 1983. It was an eye wash cup made using Stereolithography (SLA). He patented this technology and subsequently co-founded 3D Systems in 1986, launching the first commercial 3D printer, the SLA-1, and thus establishing the 3D printing industry.
“On behalf of the entire 3D Systems team, it is my pleasure to extend our deepest congratulations to Chuck for this honor,” said Dr. Jeffrey Graves, president & CEO, 3D Systems. “His pioneering work has revolutionized manufacturing and profoundly impacted healthcare delivery. Chuck’s invention of Stereolithography not only launched an entire industry but also sparked the proliferation of numerous applications for 3D printing technologies. Whether we look at aerospace, personalized healthcare solutions, AI infrastructure, or the automotive industry, 3D printing is playing a significant role in how these industries innovate. Thanks to Chuck’s groundbreaking initial innovation with SLA, we are transforming manufacturing and patient care for a better future.”
Elected by their peers, the ballot for this class was set in December and the final vote took place in January. He and his class will be formally inducted during the NAE’s Annual Meeting on October 5, 2025.
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