(SME: Dearborn, MI) -- The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) RAPID 2012 Conference & Exposition will feature a potent lineup of presentations aimed at revealing how businesses can improve their competitive edge in a challenging, global economy. Industry consultant and analyst, Terry Wohlers, will provide the state-of-the-industry keynote presentation on Thurs., May 24, 2012. Wohlers will discuss how additive manufacturing technologies are helping to develop new markets and exciting business opportunities.

“Additive manufacturing technologies create a world of possibilities that can take an organization in an entirely new direction and help launch new businesses and business models,” says Wohlers, president of Wohlers Associates, providers of technical, marketing, and strategic advice on the new developments and trends in additive manufacturing. “3-D printing and 3-D imaging are causing design and manufacturing professionals to rethink their approach to new product development.”

 …