At Technical Network, we’ve observed how emerging technologies empower industrial excellence. This year, additive manufacturing (AM) is taking centre stage in the automotive and aerospace sectors, offering game-changing advantages in design agility, supply chain resilience, and sustainable operations.
Design reinvented: Topology, lightweighting & DfAM
In 2025, automotive and aerospace engineers are leveraging Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) to unlock new paradigms. The capacity for lightweight lattice structures, parts consolidation, and topology-optimised geometries is redefining how products evolve, from concept to component. The result? Enhanced performance, reduced material usage, and a streamlined design-to-production curve.
Cold spray & metal deposition: Repair, Rebuild, Revolutionise
Aerospace leaders are increasingly adopting Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing (CSAM) to repair critical parts like turbine blades, gear housings, and structural assemblies. This layer-by-layer metal deposition process enables robust repairs, extends life cycles, and supports on-demand component renewal, advancing both readiness and sustainability.
Virtual manufacturing networks & agile supply chains
AM isn’t just about machines, it’s fundamentally reshaping supply chains. Virtual Manufacturing Networks, powered by ICT platforms, bring modularity and responsiveness. Dispersed partners can collaborate dynamically on design, prototyping, and production, streamlining delivery and reducing risks tied to geographic concentration.
UK momentum: Alloyed’s metal AM breakthroughs
The UK’s AM ecosystem is gaining fresh momentum. A homegrown success story, Alloyed is advancing metal alloy design and AM scale-up, bolstered by a major funding boost to blend computational tools with industrial production. Their progress underscores an increasing demand for professionals versed in digital metallurgy, AM process integration, and cross-sector innovation.
Talent: The catalyst for sustainable transformation
AM’s value lies in people. At Technical Network, our mission is to connect automotive and aerospace businesses with the right talent across:
- DfAM & AM process engineers steering design and development
- Quality assurance & operations experts embedding new workflows
- Supply chain specialists enabling responsive, networked procurement
- Health, Safety & Environmental advisors ensuring compliance in evolving work environments
Our 3D Framework® positions us to anticipate and meet the recruitment needs emerging from this AM-led transformation.
In summary: Additive manufacturing as a strategic imperative
In 2025, additive manufacturing is no longer an experimental frontier, it’s a strategic imperative for automotive and aerospace. From reimagined design and repair capabilities to resilient, flexible supply systems, AM is driving growth through innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.
At Technical Network, we’re proud to support businesses across these sectors - bringing not just talent, but insight and foresight as they build the factories, fleets, and frameworks of tomorrow.
To find out how we can support your business, get in touch with our Associate Director, Robert Wigley at Robert.wigley@technical-network.co.uk or call on 0121 450 5000.
