Chuck Hull receives the National Medal of Technology and Innovation

Chuck Hull, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of 3D Systems, has received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation from Joe Biden in the USA.

Hull revolutionized the field of additive manufacturing with the invention and commercialization of stereolithography (SLA) in the 1980s. This technology made it possible for the first time to create three-dimensional objects using UV resins – a breakthrough that significantly changed prototype production. In 1986, his research led to the founding of 3D Systems, which also saw the launch of the first commercial 3D printer, the SLA-1.

The importance of Hull’s work is underscored by numerous awards and honors, including induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the European Inventor Award. His work, which also extends to the field of ion optics, is protected by more than 85 US patents.

3D Systems, whose technology remains at the forefront of innovation, continues to drive the industry forward, particularly in the manufacture of 3D printers and the development of software and materials. Under Hull’s leadership, the company is increasingly focusing on biomedical applications of 3D printing, such as the bioprinting of human organs in cooperation with United Therapeutics.

“On behalf of the entire company, I congratulate Chuck as a recipient of the National Medal of Technology and Innovation,” said Dr. Jeffrey Graves, president & CEO, 3D Systems. “He has had a remarkable career with his efforts not only changing the trajectory of manufacturing but also impacting the human condition by changing how healthcare is delivered. Chuck’s invention of Stereolithography gave birth to an industry and since that time, the number of 3D printing technologies has proliferated, as have the applications for which they are used. Advancements in applications such as satellites, electric vehicles, medical implants, dental aligners, chip manufacturing, carbon capture — 3D printing is playing an integral role in each one — all made possible by Chuck taking the first step with SLA. I’m inspired by his passion and believe we’ll see the possibility of bioprinted human organs becoming a reality in his lifetime. It’s a pleasure to collaborate with Chuck and I am so very grateful and privileged to call him a colleague and friend.”