Alex Larson

Alex Larson serves as an Engineering and Manufacturing Teacher at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he specializes in hands-on technical education and 3D printing technologies. He teaches several courses in the university's comprehensive 3D Printing Specialization on Coursera, focusing on additive manufacturing technologies and their applications in modern engineering. His teaching philosophy emphasizes practical, experiential learning that combines theoretical knowledge with real-world problem-solving. His expertise includes designing and implementing curriculum that helps students understand both the technical and practical aspects of modern manufacturing processes, with particular emphasis on how additive technologies are transforming traditional manufacturing methods. Through his courses, he guides students in understanding 3D printing applications, hardware, software, and project implementation, while encouraging innovative thinking and community engagement through shared solutions. His practical approach to engineering education helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world manufacturing challenges.