While the world is waking up to the possibilities afforded by Additive Construction (AC), the capacity to deliver it at scale is still catching up. People are beginning to recognize AC as a game changer with the potential to deliver projects faster, more affordably and more sustainably, while reinvigorating the construction workforce. Yet the possibilities AC offers cannot be realized without alignment across three fronts. Public and private developers and build design firms need to embrace AC in the projects they conceive and plan. Construction companies need to build the capacity to deliver them. And the industry needs to inspire and grow the skilled workforce to make it all possible.
Soon after Aretek (formerly, Printerra Inc.) purchased their first 3D Construction Printer, it became apparent that owning and learning how to operate a printer was only the first step to successfully completing a 3D-printed project. Aretek's founders already had 10 years of experience in construction, which helped them understand everything that goes into delivering a building from foundation and envelope to occupancy. The next step was mastering how to design and integrate the structural components the printer would provide within a complete building system.
Aretek saw that it was going to take a strategic plan to fully embrace and adopt AC at scale. We established an R&D program to support a regulatory pathway and obtained an engineering license (PEO Certificate of Authorization held by Printerra Inc.) to enable inhouse engineering design and sign off. Our team deepened our skills for 3D-printing and developed a training program to deliver to the public along with customized training for our customers, and we started work on a permitted 3D-Printed, net zero multi-story residential building using our Engineered 3DCP Wall Design.
From First Project to Long-Term Capability
Aretek's approach is simple: don't give someone a fish, teach them how to fish. Our Capacity Building program jump starts and supports the ongoing adoption of AC by providing the full stack of what is needed to get started and succeed. Wherever you are in your AC journey, we assess what you need and establish your enablement plan from there. Where needed, we provide guidance on selecting and procuring the right printer, and access to vetted, AC-appropriate materials sourced and supplied through Aretek's established supplier relationships. We ensure that your print crews are equipped and confident through our customized hands-on training program, delivered by experienced AC professionals at our dedicated R&D and Training Facility or at your location. Our program supports you from your first AC project and every one that follows, and each company we enable becomes part of a growing network working toward a future of more affordable and sustainable construction.
Building Capacity in Communities
Aretek is proud to also be exploring opportunities to work with First Nation groups to facilitate training programs in 3D-printed training centers on reserve, supporting the design and construction of housing, commercial buildings and infrastructure, and growing the capacity of First Nation communities to establish their own AC practice, both on reserve and in the broader market.
Contact us to start or accelerate your AC journey.
Further reading:
Professional Services: Capacity Building & Training
R&D Blog Article
Engineered 3DCP Wall System Article
