Exploring Military Jobs with 3D Printing

I'm curious about military careers that involve 3D printing technology. Does anyone know what specific jobs focus on this area and what skills I might need to develop in high school to pursue this path?

There are several career paths in the military that may involve the use of 3D printing technology. These primarily fall within fields of engineering, logistics, and medical care.

1. Military Engineers: They could utilize 3D printing to design and create prototypes for equipment or structural models, which help in strategic planning and equipment testing.

2. Logistics Specialists: These professionals could use 3D printing for creating spare parts directly on base or in the field, which could drastically cut down transportation time and costs.

3. Medical Personnel: Within the military, 3D printing is also being explored in the medical field, for creating prosthetics and even bio-printing.

In terms of skills to develop while you're in high school, focus on gaining a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science. Also, any engineering or robotics classes your school might offer will be beneficial. Familiarizing yourself with CAD (Computer Aided Design) software could be very advantageous, as it's often used in tandem with 3D printing.

Additionally, problem-solving skills and innovative thinking are highly valued in these fields, as they often deal with high-stakes issues that require creative and efficient solutions. Participating in related clubs or groups, like a robotics team or a maker fair, can also give you hands-on experience with 3D printing and further develop these skills.

Remember, though, military careers have physical fitness requirements and possibly other qualifications, so it's important to research and understand those aspects as well.