Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Seighman.
Chris, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
During my senior year at the University of Vermont, my senior design project was sponsored by a local physician and required several iterations of prototypes. We wanted to test out a lot of different designs for the product, but the 3D printers available on campus were unreliable and often occupied. I’d always been interested in owning my own small-scale 3D printer, so this seemed like the perfect opportunity to purchase one for myself.
As I spent more and more time using it for the project, I realized how much I enjoyed tinkering with it and the potential it truly had. After graduation, I moved to Denver, where I was able to focus my efforts on building a more creative foundation for what 3D printing could mean for me. This is when Rocky Mountain 3D Printing was born. I began by printing products that were useful in my own day-to-day life, like phone charging stands and paper towel holders. My Etsy store began with just a few products and the option for any custom work. I’ve since found inspiration from things I have seen online and also expanded on products that I have found a need for in my own life.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’ve been fortunate enough to not experience too many major bumps in the road, but there have been a few learning opportunities I’ve encountered along the way. The nature of 3D printing means that there are some times when the printer fails, and I need to find a way to get it to the customer on time. This has led to several late nights and early mornings, packing in as much time on the printer as I can.
Once again, due to the materials and nature of 3D printing, I have encountered a few instances where customer expectations haven’t been aligned with the end product, which has led to a few challenging customer interactions. I am still learning and growing from these types of customer interactions, particularly learning to ensure that customers’ expectations are more accurately set, as 3D printing is an unfamiliar medium to many people.
Please tell us about Rocky Mountain 3D Printing.
3D printing is still a relatively unfamiliar technology to a lot of people, so that alone often sets my products apart. I’m particularly proud of the fact that I have found a way to take something so technical and turn it into a creative outlet for myself. My best projects are the ones where I have helped take a creative idea from a customer and turn it into reality.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’ve taken a lot of inspiration from professors and classmates throughout my time in school and been lucky enough to soak up valuable knowledge from my work experiences. All of this has led to a solid foundation for my 3D printing company. I was really fortunate to be able to benefit from my sister Annie’s incredible graphic design skills when creating the look and feel of my brand. In terms of the business side of things, such as customer service, marketing, and logistics, my girlfriend Lauren has been a huge asset, as I really had no experience or exposure to business management. I’m really thankful for the support I have received from my friends and family throughout this venture.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/RockyMountain3DPrint
- Phone: 303-656-9046
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rm3dprint/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RM3DPrint
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