DOST-NCR, MIRDC Hone Pasig Students’ Skills for Industry 4.0  

To prepare the next generation of workers for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0, DOST-NCR PAMAMARISAN CASTO and the DOST Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC) partnered to train high school students from the City of Pasig on 3D printing technology through a “3D Printing Innovation Challenge Pre-Event Workshop” held on January 21, 22, and 28, 2025, at the DOST-MIRDC Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) in Bicutan, City of Taguig.  

The workshop, which is part of the “STEMBooster: Strengthening Maker Education in Pasig City” project, was also meant to prepare students for the upcoming “3D Printing Innovation Challenge” in March 2025 by enhancing their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.   

3D printing technology is one of the key pillars of the Industry 4.0, which is characterized by the integration of intelligent digital technologies into manufacturing and industrial processes. This technology enables flexible manufacturing, rapid prototyping, customized production, and on-demand part creation.    

Showing their support on the first day of the workshop were DOST-MIRDC Executive Director, Engr. Robert O. Dizon, DOST-NCR Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations, Engr. Osric Primo Bern A. Quibot, SDO-Pasig’s Education Program Supervisor for Science Liza Alvarez, and University of the Philippines National Institute for Science and Mathematics Education Development (UP NISMED) Director Dr. Sheryl Lyn C. Monterola. Thirty-three (33) students from the following schools in Pasig participated in the workshop: Buting Senior High School, Eusebio High School, Kapitolyo High School, Nagpayong High School, Pasig City Science High School, Pinagbuhatan High School, Rizal High School, San Lorenzo Ruiz Senior High School, Sta. Lucia High School, Santolan High School, and Ugong Pasig National High School.   

The first day of the training discussed the basics of 3D printing, followed by a workshop on Design Thinking and Prototyping. Day two focused on essential 3D design, printing, and prototyping skills. Engr. Jose Bernarso Padaca from AMCen talked on the fundamentals of 3D model design, covering key concepts such as design principles, software tools, and best practices. His lecture was followed by interactive hands-on training facilitated by Engr. Leif Oliver Colorado that taught participants how to set up, operate, optimize, and troubleshoot 3D printers.   

The final session had participants further honing their skills on design thinking and prototyping. They were also given a guided tour of AMCen’s facilities,  showcasing state-of-the-art 3D printing technologies in action. The three-day event concluded with an overview of the 3D Printing Innovation Challenge, covering its mechanics, expectations, and preparation guidelines.  

This workshop fuels reaffirmation among DOST-NCR and its partners on their commitment to fostering STEM education and technological innovation among young learners, who will comprise tomorrow’s workforce. The workshop not only equipped students with technical knowledge about 3D printing but also prepared them for what companies expect from the next generation of workers. 

By: Noel G. Calcetas, SCCU