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| 3D Ventures |
From Early Stereolithography to Shaping Industry Culture
Joe Allison, CEO of Gentle Giant Studios and principal of 3D Ventures, has spent nearly 40 years pioneering additive manufacturing. As a two-time AMUG Distinguished Innovator Operator (DINO) awardee, he will receive the 2025 AMUG Innovators Award for his contributions to the field.
In this exclusive interview, Allison reflects on his career, from early breakthroughs in stereolithography (SLA) to launching startups and advancing Selective Thermoplastic Electrophotographic Process (STEP) technology. His leadership philosophy emphasizes culture over patents, highlighting the importance of teamwork and shared success.
Early Innovations and Lessons Learned
Allison’s journey began in 1987 at 3D Systems, where he developed 12 patents, including solutions for shrinkage-induced distortion, vastly improving accuracy in SLA printing. Despite early failures—such as expensive experiments with highly filled epoxies and CNC aluminum—his persistence led to key advancements, including Boolean slicing techniques and automatic support generation.
Not all innovations were patented. Some, like QuickCast for investment casting, were kept as trade secrets due to enforcement challenges. Others, such as removable perforated supports, became industry standards without official patents.
Entrepreneurial Success: The Birth of Solid Concepts
In 1991, Allison founded Solid Concepts, a leading service provider in additive manufacturing. Strapped for cash, he and Ray Bradford developed software to convert Cyberware 3D scanner data into STL files, creating a revenue stream that sustained the company. Strategic purchases, like a $250,000 SLA machine acquired for $35,000, allowed Solid Concepts to thrive.
Shaping the Industry’s Future
Beyond technological contributions, Allison played a crucial role in preserving industry institutions. When 3D Systems sought to divest Gentle Giant Studios, he stepped in, recognizing its cultural significance in entertainment and 3D scanning. Today, he is focused on STEP technology at Evolve Additive Solutions, a method offering 14-micron precision, superior mechanical properties, and compatibility with ABS, polycarbonate, and PEEK.
Leadership and Investment Philosophy
Allison’s leadership philosophy is simple: strategy aligns, but culture drives success. He prioritizes empowering teams over micromanagement, ensuring employees feel valued.
As an investor, he seeks startups with proven market fit rather than speculative growth. While he regrets missing early investment in Icon (3D-printed construction), his focus remains on real-world applications with measurable traction.
Though retirement looms, Allison remains committed to advancing additive manufacturing and fostering its next generation of innovators.
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