Chinese Metal 3D Printing Manufacturer Recruits Former EOS CTO—AVIC Maite Appoints New Technical Director

In recent years, China’s metal 3D printing manufacturers have been iterating at remarkable speed—often launching two to three new models annually—while many overseas counterparts release new equipment every two to three years. If top-tier international experts join Chinese firms, leveraging China’s rapid supply chain and workforce dedication, it could significantly accelerate development.

AVIC Maite has now attracted Dr. Tobias Abeln, former Chief Technology Officer of Germany’s EOS, to join as Technical Director, marking a pivotal moment in its international strategic expansion for metal 3D printing equipment.

Strategic Appointment to Drive Equipment Innovation

On August 7, 2025, at a signing ceremony held at AVIC Maite’s Xuzhou Airport base—attended by General Manager Gao Zhengjiang, Equipment Division GM Li Fachang, HR Director Teng Yun, and Marketing Director Gao Ge—the company announced Dr. Abeln’s appointment.

Under the agreement, Dr. Abeln will be deeply involved in equipment technology R&D, product innovation, and process upgrades, focusing on mechanical structure design, wind-field system optimization, and optical calibration. His expertise will help AVIC Maite build a more professional, scientific R&D system and position domestic equipment for entry into high-end international applications.

Profile: Dr. Tobias Abeln

· Former CTO of EOS – Led the development and innovation of multiple metal 3D printing systems during a nine-year tenure.

· Current CTO of Waldrich Coburg – A world leader in heavy and super-heavy CNC gantry milling machines, under Beijing No.1 Machine Tool Plant and Jingcheng Mechanical & Electrical Holding.

· Expertise – Over 20 years of experience in laser technology R&D and advanced manufacturing systems, with achievements in both additive manufacturing and high-precision heavy machinery.

His technical background aligns seamlessly with AVIC Maite’s mission to advance high-end, industrial-grade metal additive manufacturing equipment.

Gao Zhengjiang emphasized that AVIC Maite, since its founding, has been committed to deep R&D in metal additive manufacturing and product innovation. Since entering the metal 3D printing equipment market in 2022, the company has aimed to develop world-class domestic high-end equipment. He noted that Dr. Abeln’s global vision, technical mastery, and extensive hands-on experience will significantly strengthen the company’s R&D capacity, accelerate performance benchmarking against international leaders, and help deliver optimal solutions for global clients.

“The Chinese metal additive manufacturing market demonstrates remarkable vitality and potential,” said Dr. Abeln. “AVIC Maite has built strong capabilities in both metal 3D printing materials and equipment. I look forward to merging international best practices with local innovation to drive our systems toward higher precision and efficiency.”

Since joining, Dr. Abeln has:

· Led multiple technical workshops on system integration, optical quality control, and wind-field/process optimization.

· Visited production lines to review assembly, calibration, and burn-in testing processes.

· Examined the company’s powder production facilities to understand its “materials + equipment” synergy model—a foundation for future integrated development.

Significance: Dr. Abeln’s arrival signals AVIC Maite’s entry into a new phase of globalized growth in metal 3D printing equipment. It is both a milestone in the company’s decade-long history and a testament to its commitment to excellence and technological leadership.

Looking ahead, AVIC Maite will continue to integrate world-class technical resources, accelerate independent innovation, and advance its coordinated “equipment + materials” strategy—delivering reliable solutions for high-end manufacturing and progressing toward its goal of becoming a globally leading, green, and technology-driven additive manufacturing company.