#FavoriteMoments with Johannes Bruckwilder: Insights about Additive Manufacturing for Plastic Injection Molding and Die Casting Applications

I recently caught up with Johannes Bruckwilder during his #FavoriteMoments video shoot at the Additive Manufacturing Center in Düsseldorf. With machines whirring in the background, Johannes was clearly in his element. Together, we explored his story as a technology and business leader—and his insights shaping two fascinating industries: plastic injection molding and high-pressure die casting.

Meeting Johannes

Johannes is Product Manager for Additive Manufacturing and Engineered Products at voestalpine High Performance Metals Division. His role bridges technology leadership and business development—a combination that keeps him at the forefront of innovation.

“Additive manufacturing is still a relatively young technology,” Johannes told me. “It’s been around for about 20 years, but the pace of development is incredible. My focus is on applications like injection molding and high-pressure die casting—areas where we can really make a difference for customers.”

From teacher aspirations to engineering leadership

I asked Johannes what sparked his journey into additive manufacturing. I wasn’t entirely surprised that teaching was once on the table—Johannes runs regular AM webinars for our customers, and anyone who’s attended would agree: He’s a natural teacher!

“I seriously considered becoming a teacher,” he said with a smile. “But I’ve always been drawn to technical subjects. So, I studied Mechanical Engineering in Germany, specializing in Product Engineering and Material Science. From early roles in design and R&D to joining voestalpine as a technical advisor for Uddeholm, every step built the foundation for what I do today.”

That curiosity and commitment to learning didn’t stop there. Johannes transitioned into business development through self-study and experience—proof that adaptability is key in a fast-changing industry.

Customer challenges: Why thermal management matters

One topic Johannes is passionate about: solving customer challenges. For injection molders, thermal management is critical.

“With the right thermal management, customers can reduce cycle times and boost productivity,” he explained. “It also improves part quality—tighter tolerances, less warpage. These factors directly impact competitiveness and profitability.”

Die casting: From tradition to transformation

When we shifted to Johannes’ other specialization—die casting—he painted a vivid picture of an industry in transition.

“Foundries used to be hot, noisy, and dirty,” he said. “But things are changing. Total cost of ownership (TCO) combined with overall equipment efficiency (OEE), sustainability and energy efficiency are driving industry transformation. And then there’s mega and giga casting—a rapidly growing trend. Compared to Europe, Asia is currently far ahead in adopting such large-scale die casting technology.”

What excites Johannes

“There are many things that excite me about product management,” Johannes said. “The most fulfilling—and often the most challenging—part is developing innovations and bringing them to market by solving customer bottlenecks and pain points.”

A glimpse behind the scenes

Johannes starts his day early with “focus time” for learning and development before diving into emails, meetings, and customer visits. He enjoys spending time in production—checking on additive manufacturing machines, reviewing customer orders, and chatting with the team. Outside work, family comes first:

“Both my wife and son play football,” he told me. “I love cheering them on at weekend games.”

To stay energized, he keeps a regular bodyweight training routine.

Watch the video

This blog post is just a snapshot. To see Johannes in action and hear more about his #FavoriteMoments, check out the video above.