COVID-19’s Impact on Global Manufacturing

3D printing timeline

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacted a devastating human and economic toll across the globe. It has sickened millions, taken the lives of hundreds of thousands, and impacted families and communities immeasurably. The virus has also disrupted global supply chains in unforeseen ways, exposing deep flaws and inflexibilities that have made it difficult for people to access necessary supplies in times of stress. This has been felt particularly acutely in the shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that the U.S. and other countries continue to struggle with.

Among the fastest responders to the PPE shortage were 3D printing labs. The 3D printing community came together to create and print open source designs for face shields, ventilator components, masks, and nasal swabs, among other items. 3D printed PPE helped fill a gap that no one anticipated would have ever existed in a world of interconnected, undisrupted global supply chains. COVID-19 exposed just how important it is for domestic industries to have ready, reliable access to flexible, fast manufacturing during periods of supply chain stress – whether to adjust to an unforeseen disruption or to capitalize on an unexpected increase in demand.

Jett 3D was born out of the realization that businesses need access to local manufacturers who can operate flexibly, react nimbly and produce rapidly. The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us all that circumstances can change at the drop of the hat, but with support from partners like Jett 3D you can effectively navigate through with confidence in the supply chain that supports your business.

Interested in 3D printing PPE for your team? Contact Us