Mar 02, 2025 
Bradley Tumas is an Account Manager at Materialise, where he supports Academic and Government Research accounts using Mimics, a 3D imaging software. In addition, Brad supports Clinical and Research Applications in Veterinary Hospitals across North America with the help of his Application Engineer. With three years of experience in this role, Brad has been dedicated to helping the Veterinary community find solutions to optimize surgical procedures. He has always focused on supporting others and improving outcomes using advanced 3D imaging technology. Brad holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Michigan. This gave him an understanding of engineering and biomedical sciences, enabling him to contribute to the Mimics community. Bradley will be speaking at the upcoming event focusing on 3D Printing in Veterinarian Medicine.
When was the first encounter you had with 3D printing? What was that experience like?
Brad: I first encountered an FDM printer at the University of Michigan in an automotive lab. I thought 3D printers were for leisurely applications. When I saw them prototyping parts for automotive research, I found it very interesting. However, I did not have the vision to foresee all the applications I now know.
What inspired you to start your journey?
Brad: My inspiration was working in an industry that helped people. I dreamed of being a doctor but decided to pursue the field of Biomedical Engineering with that same inspiration. After reading the stories about Materialise’s medical collaborations, I found a company with the same goals.
Who inspired you the most along this journey?
Brad: My manager, Todd Pietila, has mentored me during my career in 3D printing.
What motivates you the most for your work?
Brad: Working with some of the most intelligent people in Academia, working toward improving and innovating the medical field.
What is/are the biggest obstacle(s) in your line of work? If you have conquered them, what were your solutions?
Brad: Academic Funding while selling a premium product. Grant funding is challenging to count on from year to year.
What do you think is (are) the biggest challenge(s) in 3D Printing? What do you think the potential solution(s) is (are)?
Brad: Scaling to replace industrial production capacity.
If a higher being granted you three wishes, what would they be?
Brad: The ability to Teleport, wisdom, abolish evil.
What advice would you give to a smart driven college student in the “real world”? What bad advices you heard should they ignore?
Brad: Find a job that you’re passionate about. Align with a company that shares your values.
Do not change who you are to fit a specific job.
What’s your favorite book you read this year and why? Alternatively, what’s your favorite book of all times you read and why?
Brad: The Bible. There is so much applicable wisdom available and modeling Jesus leads to a very caring, strong and unselfish mindset. Same book, for the same reason.
Related Links:
Event Recap: Revolutionizing Pet Care With 3D
Interview with Alexander Tholl: CEO, 3DPets
Interview with Dr. Johnny Uday: 3D Printing for Animals
3D Printing Veterinary Medicine – A Guide
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