Expert Insight: Dominic Parsonson on the Future of Additive Manufacturing at Fuji Xerox Australia

Dominic Parsonson, a seasoned additive manufacturing specialist at Fuji Xerox Australia, brings years of hands‑on experience working with industrial partners and educational institutions. His deep knowledge of 3D printing technology positions him as a trusted advisor on how additive manufacturing can reshape manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

How did you originally become interested in additive manufacturing?

My first encounter with a 3D printer was in South Africa during the 1990s, where I saw a defence‑related application. The idea of turning digital designs into physical objects fascinated me, especially given my background in chemistry. A pivotal moment was when a printed prototype exposed a critical design flaw that would have cost millions if discovered later. That experience cemented my passion for the technology and its business potential.

What’s your role at Fuji Xerox Australia and the work you’re doing in AM?

As a Product Evangelist, I partner with industry to uncover opportunities for 3D solutions. While additive manufacturing has matured over the past 30 years, many firms still overlook it when facing speed‑to‑market or capacity challenges. I help demystify the technology, show real value, and guide organisations from concept to implementation. My favorite applications span education, medical devices, and general manufacturing—areas where the right solution can have lasting, positive impacts.

What are the most common misconceptions about additive manufacturing?

A few years ago, consumer 3D printers spurred hype, but the gap between hobbyist devices and industrial systems remains a major misunderstanding. When organisations first experience hobbyist printing, they often find the results disappointing and assume all 3D printing is similar. I routinely clarify that industrial 3D printers deliver precision, reliability, and materials suitable for production.

How can AM add value beyond prototyping?

Beyond rapid and functional prototyping, additive manufacturing excels in producing manufacturing tools such as robotic end‑of‑arm effectors, jigs, fixtures, assembly aids, and injection moulds. These tools benefit from lighter weight, superior strength, and cost savings, ultimately accelerating time to market.

What benefits does AM bring to healthcare, education, and manufacturing?

In healthcare, AM delivers customised surgical guides and pre‑surgical planning tools that improve patient outcomes, reduce operating room time, and cut costs. In education, 3D printing serves as a powerful STEM integrator, helping students translate 2D concepts into tangible 3D models and fostering problem‑solving skills across subjects. In manufacturing, the technology offers flexible, on‑demand production that adapts to changing demands.

How can the industry address the perceived skills shortage?

I believe the shortage is often overstated. Additive manufacturing skills can be taught quickly; what matters is hiring people with curiosity, a willingness to learn, and strong problem‑solving abilities. Experienced specialists are valuable, but enthusiasm and adaptability are equally crucial.

What current trends excite you most?

I’m particularly excited about Digital Inventory as a supply‑chain disruptor.

Digital Inventory leverages decentralized manufacturing to bring just‑in‑time production to remote sites—such as mines, defence facilities, and rural clinics. The technology is already mature enough for deployment, and I anticipate a wave of adoption within the next two to three years.

Where do you see additive manufacturing heading in the next five years?

Over the next five years, we’ll see devices that are faster, materials that rival traditional counterparts, and a consolidation of the market. As in the early days of mobile phones, many small manufacturers will either exit or merge, leading to a handful of players offering comprehensive technology stacks.

https://www.fujixerox.com.au