Students View 3D Printed, Sustainable Manufacturing

Shorecrest Upper School CAD students recently had the opportunity to step inside the future of design and manufacturing at Haddy in St. Petersburg. 

As they begin learning Autodesk Fusion software - which optimizes 3D model designs - the visit brought learning to life. Inside Haddy’s microfactory, six large-scale robots produce everything from chairs to tables using 100% recycled and recyclable materials. Their entire process is built around a closed-loop system, meaning products can be returned, broken down, and reprinted into something new, eliminating waste and redefining sustainability in manufacturing. Students witnessed how a simple idea - whether a sketch, mood board, or CAD file - can move from concept to fully finished product in just days through AI-powered 3D printing and advanced robotics.

This experience sparked powerful conversations around:
• How engineering and design can reduce environmental impact
• The role of AI and automation in modern manufacturing
• What it means to design with both creativity and responsibility

Students also learned about Haddy’s mission to bring manufacturing back to the United States, making production faster, more efficient, and more environmentally conscious.

"What stood out most was seeing the connection between what we do in class and what professionals are doing every day," said their teacher, Sarah Balisalisa. "As our students begin designing in Fusion 360, they are not just learning software, they are stepping into the role of engineers, designers, and problem-solvers shaping the future. We extend a huge thank you to the Haddy team for opening your doors and inspiring the next generation of innovators."