Rapid Shape selects Centennial Campus for North American headquarters

September 9, 2022 Staff 2-min. read

Andreas Schultheiss holds framed color drawing of the NC State belltower while Chancellor Randy Woodson stands to his left. — Chancellor Woodson welcomes Rapid Shape CEO Andreas Schultheiss to Centennial Campus. Photo by Becky Kirkland

Rapid Shape, a German company that develops and manufactures high-end 3D printing systems, has opened its North American headquarters on NC State’s Centennial Campus. Proximity to student and faculty talent, research and state-of-the-art equipment are cited as key reasons for choosing the new location. The company is partnering with NC State’s Center for Additive Manufacturing and Logistics (CAMAL), working with researchers to further innovation in the 3D printing industry.

Rapid Shape Founder and CEO Andreas Schultheiss said: “NC State offers access to top talent within walking distance of our new office. The resources and infrastructure available on campus will help drive Rapid Shape’s growth in the North American market.”

Rapid Shape has provided equipment for university training and education. Through class projects, interdisciplinary teams of engineering and MBA students are gaining hands-on experience using the company’s machines and materials. At the end of the semester-long product development course, students will present their projects and prototypes to industry and university mentors.

“We are proud to welcome Rapid Shape to the innovative community of public and private partners who call our Centennial Campus home,” said NC State Chancellor Randy Woodson. “Together we will develop new technologies and prepare the future workforce in the field of additive manufacturing.”

From left: NC State Vice Chancellor for External Affairs, Partnerships and Economic Development Kevin Howell; Rapid Shape CEO Andreas Schultheiss; and Associate Vice Chancellor for Partnerships Mark Schmidt. Photo by Becky Kirkland

Located in the Partners I Building, the company has already tapped into NC State’s strong talent pool. Luis Felipe Caicedo, ’22 mechanical engineering alumnus, was hired as a 3D printing applications engineer a few weeks after earning his degree. Rapid Shape is now collaborating with the College of Engineering to design an internship and co-op program to recruit more students.

“As an NC State graduate, it’s an asset to have innovative companies like Rapid Shape on campus near one of the nation’s top colleges,” said Caicedo. “Because of this proximity, students have the opportunity to gain insights on emerging technologies and future product design. I’m fortunate to join the Rapid Shape team, and am excited to grow and develop as the Centennial Campus office expands.”

As an NC State graduate, it’s an asset to have innovative companies like Rapid Shape on campus near one of the nation’s top colleges.

With 200 employees at its headquarters in southern Germany, Rapid Shape provides 3D printing equipment and technology solutions for a range of applications. In addition to producing high-end machines, Rapid Shape’s software allows its customers to design 3D models that are instantly transmitted for printing. The company also develops advanced materials needed for additive manufacturing, such as resins that can withstand high temperatures and impact. Customers include global suppliers of dental implants, orthodontics, prosthetics and hearing devices, among other uses.