ROCK HILL, SC, Feb 18, 2025 – 3D Systems announced that Charles (Chuck) Hull, its co-founder and chief technology officer for regenerative medicine, has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). Election to the NAE is among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer. Academy membership honors those who have made outstanding contributions in at least one of the following categories: “engineering practice, research, or education,” “pioneering of new and developing fields of technology, major advancements in traditional fields of engineering, or development/implementation of innovative approaches to engineering education,” or “engineering leadership of one or more major endeavors.” NAE members include some accomplished and skilled business, education, and government engineers. Mr. Hull is honored for creating 3D printing and for the subsequent development of the additive manufacturing sector.
“It is humbling to be elected to this academy of distinguished engineers,” said Mr. Hull. “I’m honored and excited to serve and work alongside such outstanding professionals to advance the positive impact engineering has on our world.”
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 creating the first 3D-printed part, an eye wash cup, in 1983 using Stereolithography (SLA). He patented the 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.
Mr. Hull’s groundbreaking invention has earned him numerous accolades. In October of 2023, he received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation (NMTI) from President Joe Biden. Established in 1980, the NMTI is the United States’ highest honor for technological achievement, awarded by the President of the United States for outstanding contributions to America’s economic, environmental, and social well-being. Mr. Hull was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame (2014) and received the European Inventor Award (2014) for his transformative impact. His contributions have also been recognized with the Manufacturing Leadership Lifetime Achievement Award (2016), the ASME’s designation of the SLA-1 as a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, and The Economist’s 2013 Innovation Award. Mr. Hull has secured 85 US patents along with international patents in ion optics and 3D printing. His reputation as an inventor is firmly established.
“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.”
Mr Hull is among 128 new and 22 international members in the NAE Class 2025. He and his class will be formally inducted during the NAE’s Annual Meeting on Oct 5, 2025.
Source: 3D Systems
About 3D Systems
Founded in 1986 by Charles “Chuck” Hull, 3D Systems is a founding force in the additive manufacturing industry, credited with inventing stereolithography (SLA) and commercializing the first 3D printer, the SLA-1. Headquartered in Rock Hill, SC, the company offers various 3D printing solutions, including hardware, software, and materials. These cater to diverse industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, dental, and consumer goods, facilitating applications from prototyping to full-scale production. In 2023, 3D Systems reported revenues of $488 million, reflecting its role in advancing manufacturing technologies. As of December 31, 2023, 3D Systems employs approximately 1,925 individuals globally. The company’s global presence includes offices, manufacturing facilities, and Customer Innovation Centers, all dedicated to helping businesses integrate 3D printing into their operations for enhanced efficiency and innovation.
