Black Buffalo 3D is teaming up with the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) to advance training programs for members centered on construction 3D printing technology. The partnership is specifically focused on LIUNA’s Eastern Region and will give union members the opportunity to participate in hands-on training at Black Buffalo’s headquarters in New Jersey.
The training program, which launched this month, aims to upskill LIUNA union members in the field of construction. Black Buffalo 3D, which developed the NEXCON construction 3D printer, a multi-axis gantry system capable of printing structures up to three stories in height, will be able to share its expertise and impart knowledge to further the proliferation of construction 3D printing. Notably, the training with LIUNA members is the next step in Black Buffalo 3D’s plan to develop a more standardized training program for the emerging technology.
“Interest in 3D construction printing is growing and having a trained workforce of professional construction craft laborers ready to call to action will help get more projects going,” said Mike Miceli, CEO of Black Buffalo 3D. “In working closely with LIUNA, they will benefit from collaboration and access to our facility and NEXCON printers, while our teams work to fine tune a repeatable training curriculum that will help LIUNA remain prepared as the future of construction becomes today’s reality.”
Manufacturing on Demand
The instruction will cover all steps related to construction 3D printing, from site preparation, to 3D printer assembly, to material loading, to preparing the printed building for move in. Ultimately, sharing its knowledge with the local union and its members will enable Black Buffalo 3D to help establish a broader base of trade workers skilled in using its technology—a vital factor if construction 3D printing will continue to grow and become an increasingly viable alternative to traditional construction methods.
“LIUNA is excited to partner with Black Buffalo 3D as we look to expand our skills and stay abreast of new technologies in construction,” added Michael E. Hellstrom, VP and eastern regional manager for LIUNA. “These initial training sessions—covering everything from site prep to the printing process to installation—will allow our members to get hands-on experience and exclusive access to the latest in 3D construction printing technology and future proof their skillset to assist on upcoming projects.”
Black Buffalo 3D launched another initiative in the Carribbean in 2023, partnering with property developer Innova Homes to establish a construction 3D printing training program for students and workers. More recently, the company live-printed a code-compliant home in Fort Worth, Texas, inviting various members of the AM and construction industries to see its NEXCON solution first hand.
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Author: Tess Boissonneault
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