By LAPACAZO SANDOVAL
Special to the AmNews
The Internet changed the world in the 1990s. The world is about to change again, and this time the revolution will be in 3-D.
On a Google search to learn about the wonders of 3-D printing, which is poised to revolutionize the way business and consumers interact, I discovered 3-D Heights. Located in Washington Heights, and the brainchild of Jerry Castanos, 3-D Heights provides all levels of consumers the tools to create and print whatever they can imagine. Unlike other printing devices, this new technology requires a skill set and understanding, but it’s easy to master and cost-effective.
“The first hour class on the application of 3-D printing is free,” said Castanos, CEO of 3-D Heights (www.3dheights.com). “The software is also free. We also offer classes, at a modest cost, in design, scanning, printing and starting your own 3D printing business.”
3-D Heights has an eye on becoming a leading contender in 3-D printing technology, offering the lowest price to purchase 3-D printers. For example, the price of the Cube 2nd Gen 3-D printer (from 3D Systems) has dropped to $899. It comes ready to use and has five color options. Customers can order it online or in person.
Fine artists with an entrepreneurial vision can benefit tremendously from the affordable technology. One $49 cartridge can make five cellphone covers. Smaller items, such as jewelry and toys, depending on the size and style, can yield many more.
The retail store also offers a wide range of services to fit the communities’ needs, which includes 3-D printing filaments, 3D scanners, books on 3-D printing, 3-D printing classes and other 3-D printing services.
“3-D technology will change the way small business owners manufacture products,” said Castanos. “This will bring jobs back to the local community, and not just ‘work.’ This field opens opportunities, which leads to the building of solid futures.”
Castanos knows the value of planning coupled with hard work. He joined the U.S. Army in 2002 and earned several awards while working overseas. He spent 11 years in support operations in Iraq, Qatar, Kuwait and Afghanistan as a government contractor. While traveling, he attended Kaplan University online and received an associate of science degree in business administration and management.
“The possibilities offered in 3-D printing are bound only by a person’s knowledge and imagination,” insists Castanos.
“From a small business point-of-view and an artistic platform, especially in the gaming design industry and architectural design, there is no reason not to invest in your companies’ future. It’s not simply about being part of a trend, it’s staying ahead of it and constantly profiting from it. I’ve created an educational curriculum, priced the 3-D printers to be extremely cost-effective and opened my store for exploration. It’s my sincere wish that our community embrace the inevitable changes and learn to profit from the advancement.”
3D Heights, at 4084 Broadway, between 172nd and 173rd streets, is open seven days a week. To learn more, go to www.3dheights.com.
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/3dheights/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jerry.castanos