3D printer manufacturer Formlabs, founded by MIT graduate Maxim Lobovsky, wins Glassdoor’s ‘Best Place to Work 2018’ Employee Choice Awards.

So, what makes Formlabs such a great place to work? Two things: 3D printing and smart, passionate people. According to the CEO, a company culture that’s quirky, curious, and results-driven makes all the difference.

“It’s about working on something that you’re passionate about and believe in — something that you feel makes a positive impact on the world. It’s easy to feel that way about 3D printing because there are so many different ways it can be used,” explains Formlabs CEO and founder Maxim Lobovsky.

We all know how versatile 3D printing is. But if you need further proof, just check out some of the projects Formlabs has been working on. They range from artistic to practical and compassionate.

For example, their Form 2 3D printer was used for the hit series Stranger Things, to ‘visualize some of the creatures in real life’. Also, they have been collaborating with another 3D printing company, i.materialise, to make 3D printing more accessible to hospitals.

Elswhere, they’ve worked on developing cost-effective prosthetic limbs for children, dental implants, and even a wedding ring.

Company Culture at Formlabs Makes all the Difference

Lebovsky graduated from MIT’s Media Arts and Sciences program in 2011 and has had to adapt to the CEO role as a leader. But it’s been well received by his employees.

Many bosses focus on loyalty as their main priority, Lobovsky says. However, he says his leadership style focuses around getting people to understand why they’re doing what they’re doing. When people realize how they fit into the bigger piece of the puzzle, they want to contribute more.

So what’s so great about fitting into that puzzle? One employee on Glassdoor says they value ‘working for a company with an amazing mission, and an astonishing product’. And on ‘projects where you can make a direct impact.’

“People spend a third of their waking lives at work, and most people don’t enjoy it. So the fact that for at least a few hundred people, I’ve contributed toward making work an enjoyable experience means a lot to me.”

Plus, Formlabs keeps employees inspired. Even though employee reviews note that it’s definitely challenging, it’s a fun, collaborative environment where everyone is intelligent and creative.

“People spend a third of their waking lives at work, and most people don’t enjoy it. So the fact that for at least a few hundred people, I’ve contributed toward making work an enjoyable experience means a lot to me,” Lobovsky says.

Since 2011, Formlabs’ winning combo has produced over 25,000 desktop 3D printers and a rapidly growing team. They’re headquartered in Somerville, Massachusetts and now have several hundred employees between their US and Berlin, Germany offices.

Source: Glassdoor