GE Additive Education Program accepting applications from schools for 3-D printers

Cincinnati-based GE is accepting applications from schools for the GE Additive Education Program (AEP). The company will invest $10 million over the next five years in two educational programs to develop pipelines of future talent in additive manufacturing. Enabling educational institutions to provide access to 3-D printers will help accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing worldwide, the company reports.

The firm will invest $2 million over two years to subsidize desktop polymer printers for primary and secondary schools around the world. Priority will be given to institutions serving students ages 8 to 18 with a strong commitment to STEM education.

The company also will invest $8 million over five years to subsidize up to 50 metal additive machines to colleges and universities around the world. Priority will be given to institutions with curriculum and/or research underway in the area of additive manufacturing.

Applications for initial selections in both programs will be accepted until Feb. 28. Additional applications will be accepted in 2018. Interested schools may complete the application form at www.geadditive.com/#education.