THE COURSE COVERED KEY CONCEPTS IN 3D MODELING AND THE FUNDAMENTALS OF 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY.
Ten residents from the south of the island recently participated in an Introduction to 3D Printing training course held at the Laborie Digital Development Centre. The comprehensive one-day course was held on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, and introduced participants to the exciting world of 3D printing, exploring its transformative impact across various industries, as well as on a consumer level.
Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an additive manufacturing process that creates a physical object from a digital design. The process works by laying down thin layers of material in the form of liquid or powdered plastic, metal or cement, and then fusing the layers together.
Participants learned the fundamentals of 3D printing technology, including the different types of 3D printers. The course also covered key concepts in 3D modeling, guiding students through a hands-on design exercise where they created their own 3D models. Organizers hope that by the end of the course, participants will not only understand how 3D printing works, but will also have the opportunity to print their designs, providing a practical experience that bridges theory and application.
The course was sponsored by the Taiwan Technical Mission (TTM) and the Government of Saint Lucia, which are now undertaking a four-year “Application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Digital Capacity Building Project. The project aims to develop and nurture the ICT capabilities and competencies as part of strategies to enhance Saint Lucia’s human resource capital.
During the workshop, Mr. Simon Chen, Project Manager for ICT at the Taiwan Technical Mission, gave the participants a brief introduction to artificial intelligence (AI), showing them ways in which they can incorporate both AI and 3D printing to create quality finished products. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the workshop where participants received certificates of participation, he said the workshop was a significant achievement for the work being done in the community.
“This workshop not only marks a milestone as the first Taiwanese-Saint Lucian collaboration event since the grand opening of the Laborie Digital Development Centre, but it also sets a strong foundation for future innovation here in Laborie,” said Chen. “As we look forward to next week’s opening of the Papel Craft Centre, our vision is clear: for Laborie to be a hub where ideas come to life through technology, craftsmanship, and collaboration.”
Chen added: “Your hard work and enthusiasm are already transforming our vision for the Laborie Digital Development Centre into reality. With the Papel Craft Centre’s opening next week, I’m excited to see how Laborie will grow into a base of innovation and creativity. Let’s continue to push boundaries, create, and inspire.”
H. E. Julian Dubois, Ambassador of Diaspora Affairs, made brief remarks at the closing ceremony, thanked the Taiwan Technical Mission for its continued support to Saint Lucia. He also implored the participants to continue taking advantage of opportunities the serve to advance their socio-economic potential.
“You’re being exposed to something new. Many articles you read these days are about AI (artificial intelligence). Take the opportunity to learn the most you can about it, and look to create your own livelihood. Government cannot employ everyone. However, Government can give you the skills to create your own employment,” Ambassador Dubois explained.
Mr. Chris Tanner, Lead Technician from Real 3D Solutions, facilitated the workshop. He spoke to the importance of 3D printing, which has been revolutionary in solving many everyday problems.
“In the developed countries, 3D printing is very popular,” Tanner stated. “I recently visited a 3d printing centre in Taiwan and I believe the Caribbean should have this technology because as the technology improves, we’ll need more technicians and 3D designers.”
Ms. Jerliene Moncherie was one of the participants. She said decided to attend the workshop to acquire a better understanding of the technology.
“I’ve heard about 3D in movies, but not 3D printing,” she said. “I want to become more familiar with it so I can share what I learned with my students at the summer camps I host. I can use 3D to help bring out their creativity.”
Another participant, Mr. Kyle Charlemagne, said her learned a great deal from the workshop and hopes to make the best use of the knowledge he acquired.
“It’s a very useful skill to have, especially in times of modernization,” said Charlemagne. “I’ve always heard about 3D printing, but this was my first time being involved in learning this much about it. I believe that skills can bring us a long way in life. As a young man, I think it’s best that I learn as many skills as I can. Also, since the workshop was free, I decided to give it a try.”
By Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan)