Mr, Ayers is a graduate from the University of Illinois College of Engineering. He began his AM work with the FBI in 1989 designing and making prototypes and then quickly adding tooling and end components applications by 1993. He retired in 2014 by then designing and manufacturing over 10,000 parts. In 2014, he joined the Society of Manufacturing Engineers as the Industry Manager over Additive Manufacturing. In 2017, he accepted a job with Danfoss Power Solutions where he was responsible for implementing additive in 68 factories in 23 countries. This includes AM training, AM metal printing, plant operations, and prototypes/models. IN 2021 he joined 3D Metal Konsulting advising companies how to implement AM and providing custom AM training. He is an advisor for SME and has served many positions in the AMUG. Mr. Ayers is a Distinguished Innovator/Operator recipient (DINO Award). He has authored and presented over 40 articles and presentations in the industry worldwide.