A Look Back at 2022
Tronix3D has had an eventful year of rapid growth and development. We began 2022 with the aim of providing clients with low-volume production and prototype parts, in addition to offering additive manufacturing design and consulting services. By the end of the year, we accomplished this and so much more. Let us look back at 2022 and discuss some of our proudest achievements as an organization.
Spring
The year began with Tronix3D’s move into our new facility at XFactory in Bakery Square, operating alongside other Pittsburgh-based businesses. Since 2018, Tronix3D was located in Mount Pleasant, where we accumulated great success. We moved to the Pittsburgh area to be closer to our customers and become a key partner in the growth of the technological landscape.
In March, we brought on the most recent addition to the Tronix3D team. Chip Franzese joined us as a Design Engineer with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and a Certificate in Simulation in Design. He has experience working on the University of Pittsburgh's FSAE team and completing a Co-Op with Siemens Energy Turbine Service Development. "I am excited to share that I am joining the Tronix3D team,” says Chip. “I can't wait to be at the forefront of additive manufacturing and design parts that aren't constrained to conventional manufacturing." Tronix3D is proud to welcome such a passionate and talented young engineer to our team.
Later that month, Tronix3D began working with Highmark Health and Magee Plastics Company to recreate the Highmark Christmas tree ornaments hung on their 125-foot tree. We were honored to play such a vital role in one of the most iconic holiday traditions in Pittsburgh.
In April, we launched our Tronix3D blog. Here, readers have the opportunity to educate themselves on a variety of topics pertaining to the additive manufacturing industry, including Tronix3D news, current 3D printing projects around the world, and how other fields are utilizing this technology.
Additionally, Tronix3D started offering ceramic coating on Nylon parts to improve presentation and longevity while highlighting the vibrant colors and metallic shine. Utilizing CeraKote H-Series coatings, we are now able to make our 3D-printed projects even more customizable.
Also in April, we had Catalyst Connection and a group of business leaders visit the Tronix3D headquarters to learn more about our 3D printing capabilities and how they impact the manufacturing industry as a whole. We were glad to showcase our technology and help others to understand the full potential of additive manufacturing.
Ken Koenig joined Tronix3D in April with education in Physics, Electrical Manufacturing, Kaizen Lean Manufacturing, and high-end and vintage automotive repair and service. “Whether it’s designing a new product, streamlining manufacturing processes, or reducing costs, I’m dedicated to helping businesses grow with Tronix3D,” Ken states. “It’s rewarding to see the impact Tronix3D has on businesses every day, and I’m excited to be part of it!”
May also brought us the pleasure of working with The Barnes Global Advisors to create a custom 3D-printed trophy for an event held by founder John E. Barnes. The ceramic coating on this trophy gave it a metallic shine that only added to its authenticity.
Summer
June was a monumental month for Tronix3D. We were grateful to have our own booth at the Smart Manufacturing Experience, where attendees had the unique opportunity to discover new products and learn about cutting-edge technology. This event offered networking opportunities with industry professionals and the chance to attend keynotes and panel discussions with some of the Tronix3D team.
The month of June introduced another huge transition within our company. Because our production had quickly outgrown our former office space, Tronix3D moved to a larger one within the XFactory building. This process involved repainting, reorganizing, and resituating our entire workspace. The extra room this office provided enabled us to continue expanding to meet the growing demand for prototype design and additive manufacturing both in Pittsburgh and beyond.
On June 24, Tronix3D attended the Open House event of another vital player in the field of technology and manufacturing: The Digital Foundry at New Kensington. Attendees were able to experience their newly completed building, complete with music, photos, guided tours, technology showcases, and 3D-printed gifts provided by us. It was a great honor to be a part of this memorable night.
June concluded with Tronix3D being recognized as a Top Startup to Watch by the Pittsburgh Business Times. We are pleased to be recognized for our contributions to the industries we serve and for our role in advancing technology.
On August 25, Tronix3D Owner & CEO Mike Vindler hosted the latest Happy Hour for the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Product Development and Management Association (PDMA) at the Tronix3D headquarters. The purpose of the PDMA is to support the growth and development of local Western Pennsylvania industries through educational, collaborative, and networking opportunities. During the event, members learned about Tronix3D's products and services, our position in the additive manufacturing industry, and our plans for the future of 3D printing. In addition, attendees enjoyed refreshments from local companies Spoonwood Brewing Co. and Sprezzatura. “It was a pleasure to hold the PDMA Pittsburgh Chapter Happy Hour at our new Tronix3D office space,” stated Mike Vindler. “Thanks again to those who attended and provided refreshments to help make this event a success.”
Fall
Beginning in October, Tronix3D made receiving an estimate for your custom project much easier and faster, with our new Instant Quoting service. This is another huge step in making our services more accessible to our clients.
Halloween at Tronix3D was Spooktacular for all that attended our October 27 networking event. Participants arrived in costume for refreshments, prizes, and the opportunity to meet the Tronix3D team and other industry professionals, making this an enjoyable way to learn about our mad scientist approach to additive manufacturing.
In November, Tronix3D partnered with disability nonprofit PA Connecting Communities (PACC) to create a more inclusive work environment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other disabilities. From this, we were able to begin working with Colin, a 19-year-old first-year student at Pittsburgh Technical College (PTC) studying Mechanical Computer Aided Drafting (CAD). Colin is tasked with designing a clip that allows a drying rack to be movable while held securely during transportation using digital models and other innovative solutions. PA Connecting Communities aims to give everyone the chance to work and gain practical experience by collaborating with organizations that promote diversity in the workforce and community.
On November 16, we were thrilled to have our own booth at Robotics Discovery Day at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Tronix3D, in addition to about 100 other company exhibitors, educators, and community groups, presented and became informed of the astounding artificial intelligence technology being developed here in Pittsburgh.
Winter
There is more exciting news on the horizon for Tronix3D. Going into 2023, the addition of a new machine to our facility and the use of Tronix3D's instant quoting service will drastically reduce the wait time for our clients. As a result, custom parts can be printed faster than ever before. We can’t wait to share more exciting information with everyone in the New Year.
Thank you to everyone who supported Tronix3D in our goal to revolutionize the additive manufacturing industry. As we move into 2023, we could not be more satisfied with our accomplishments and are excited to see what the future holds.
With clients in the robotics, energy, medical, and defense industries, Tronix3D has been involved with various innovative projects and technologies. We are a contract-based additive manufacturing company operating in the Pittsburgh area that specializes in producing low-volume prototype parts as well as high-quality manufactured designs in as little as 24 hours. We assist customers with any step of the design process from the idea’s conception to its final production, offering 3D printing consulting and design services. To learn more about Tronix3D or receive an instant quote on your custom project, visit our website.