Meet the team: 3D printing’s Richard Hoy

Richard Hoy is our in-house applications expert for the Design Engineering Group.

Having spent 16 years working for Laser Lines, he has seen many changes in the 3D printing industry, an industry which is still evolving at an extraordinary pace.  Let’s find out a bit more about him.

How did you get into the 3D printing industry?

“I studied product design at university but always knew I didn’t want to go into a traditional product design role. On leaving university, when I saw the opportunity to join a business which specialised in such an exciting and groundbreaking technology as 3D printing, I jumped at the chance! I joined as an application engineer for 3D printing and the rest, as they say, is history.”

How has your role changed over the last 16 years?

“The majority of my years at Laser Lines have been spent within the Service Bureau working with FDM and Polyjet machines. My role has been very varied, including hands-on part building, applications advice, training and sales.”

How has the 3D printing industry changed?

“Well, 16 years ago, many businesses still viewed 3D printing as a futuristic technology, that’s if it was even on their radar. Now you have whole in-house departments focussed on 3D printing, pushing the boundaries of their devices on a daily basis to maximise the business benefits the technology can bring.”

“Customers are more knowledgeable, too, which is great for product development. This customer expertise encourages suppliers such as ourselves to come up with new approaches to 3D printing, again pushing the boundaries of the technology to facilitate industry innovation.”

What is the most enjoyable part of your job?

“For me, it’s the sheer pace of technological change. 3D printing technology evolves at a phenomenal rate and it’s vital that I keep fully abreast of these changes if I am to pass this knowledge on to our customers. Thankfully, I love learning and so look forward to any new developments in the industry.”

“Also, the way that 3D printing is changing the whole nature of design, rewriting the rule book, with the potential to revolutionise product design. As I come from a background in product design, to be able to play a part in that revolution is a great reward.”

What advice do you give to businesses thinking of investing in 3D printing technology?

“My main piece of advice would be to really evaluate where you want 3D Printing to take your business. It is no use investing in the technology just for the sake of it. You will have a much better experience in achieving those all-important cost and efficiency savings by investing in the right tool for the job. With people like me guiding you to the most appropriate solution for your specific needs, you’ll be reaping the rewards in no time”

For more information on how our 3D printing solutions can help your business, email [email protected], or call us on 01295 672588.