Doha, November 08 (QNA) - Qatar Society of Engineers organized the 3D Printing & Smart Manufacturing Conference 2026, under the patronage of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and in strategic partnership with UCC Holding. Held under the theme "From Idea to a Sustainable Reality," the event brought together experts, engineers, and representatives from the engineering and industrial sectors, as well as government and private entities.

The conference highlighted the importance of digital and technological transformation in modern manufacturing and construction. It showcased the latest practical applications across four key pillars: construction and sustainable infrastructure; energy and heavy industry; digital policy, legislative development, and human capital; and the integration of digital twin technologies and artificial intelligence into industrial systems.

The event also featured research papers and specialized panel discussions that enriched debate on sustainability, digital supply chains, and smart manufacturing.

Chairperson of the Qatar Society of Engineers Eng. Amna Mohammed Al Naama said the conference's primary objective was to support national efforts to build a knowledge- and innovation-based economy. She commended the strong turnout and active engagement of participants and guests, noting that the diverse panel discussions and research papers reflected the readiness of Qatar's engineering sector to adopt advanced manufacturing technologies and 3D printing.

The conference concluded with a set of recommendations, including the development of a roadmap to advance 3D printing and smart manufacturing by identifying priority sectors and applications and fostering partnerships among government entities, industry, and academic institutions to support innovation and investment in these technologies.

The conference also recommended adopting clear technical standards for testing and evaluating 3D-printed products and spare parts. It proposed establishing mechanisms for technical approval, certification, and accreditation to ensure product quality, safety, and reliability and build confidence in their use across the engineering and industrial sectors.

The conference further advocated integrating 3D printing into construction and infrastructure projects and using it to manufacture spare parts for the oil, gas, and heavy industry sectors. Guided by feasibility studies and actual operational needs, these applications would aim to reduce production costs, shorten implementation and supply timelines, and enhance sustainability and resource efficiency.

It also called for wider use of artificial intelligence, digital twins, robotics, and reverse engineering, alongside the development of digital repositories linked to on-demand manufacturing systems. These initiatives would help improve product quality, reduce inventory levels, and increase efficiency in industrial operations and supply chains.

The conference recommended integrating 3D printing and smart manufacturing technologies into education and training programs, upskilling engineers and technicians through continuous training, and supporting the establishment and development of laboratories, research centers, and innovation hubs in collaboration with universities and industry to foster practical solutions and advanced applications. It also called for awareness initiatives targeting decision-makers, investors, engineers, and end-users to highlight successful case studies and applications, while encouraging pilot projects, incentives, and industrial partnerships to build confidence in these technologies and accelerate their adoption in line with market needs.

The conference underscored the importance of moving beyond the introductory phase of 3D printing and smart manufacturing technologies toward practical implementation. It called for a clear roadmap, a reliable technical certification system, and effective partnerships among industry, academic institutions, and relevant stakeholders to advance the industrial sector and promote innovation and sustainability in the State of Qatar. (QNA)