Alexander Schmitz: From Professor To CEO + His CV Highlights

Ms. Katharina Corwin 10 May 2025

Ever wondered how a single individual can navigate the complexities of academia, corporate leadership, and cutting-edge technological innovation with seemingly effortless grace? Alexander Schmitz, a name synonymous with additive manufacturing and strategic leadership, embodies just that, demonstrating an unparalleled ability to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical application.

Schmitz's journey is a testament to the power of diverse experiences and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Born in Vienna, Austria, on July 13, 1982, his early life was steeped in intellectual curiosity, with vibrant discussions about global affairs, philosophy, culture, science, and technology filling his childhood home. This foundation ignited a lifelong passion for understanding and addressing the world's most pressing challenges. His academic pursuits led him to the University of Vienna, where he earned a Master's degree (Hons.) in 2007, followed by a Ph.D. from the University of Sheffield, U.K., in 2011. These formative years laid the groundwork for a career that would span continents and industries, marked by a commitment to innovation and leadership.

Category	Information
Full Name	Alexander Schmitz
Date of Birth	July 13, 1982
Place of Birth	Vienna, Austria
Nationality	Austrian
Marital Status	Single
Education	Master's Degree (Hons.), University of Vienna, 2007 Ph.D., University of Sheffield, U.K., 2011
Current Affiliation	CEO, Colibrium Additive (since 2023)
Previous Role	Professor (Assistant), Waseda University, Tokyo (Sōdai)
Areas of Expertise	Operations, Product Development, Manufacturing, Additive Manufacturing, Strategic Leadership, Global Team Leadership
Citations	Cited by 1,852 (as of publication)
Publications	111
IEEE Member	Yes
Reference	Google Scholar Profile (Example - Replace X's with actual ID)

The trajectory from academia to the corporate world saw Schmitz joining GE Additive, where he swiftly ascended to the role of CEO, effective January 16, 2023. GE's announcement highlighted his appointment as a strategic move to further the company's commitment to additive manufacturing. Based in Munich, Germany, he initially reported to Riccardo Procacci, the then-current chief executive who transitioned to an expanded leadership role at GE Aerospace. This transition underscored the importance of Schmitz's role in driving the future of GE Additive.

At Colibrium Additive, since 2023, Alexander Schmitz is at the helm, steering the company towards a future where additive printing technology is accessible and effectively utilized by manufacturers worldwide. His responsibility extends beyond mere operational oversight; he provides strategic direction, leveraging his extensive experience to guide the company's growth and innovation. This role demands a deep understanding of operations, product development, and manufacturing processes, coupled with the ability to lead global teams towards a common goal.

Before his corporate endeavors, Schmitz distinguished himself as an assistant professor at Waseda University in Tokyo (Sōdai), where his research and publications garnered significant attention. Cited by over 1,852 academic peers and with 111 publications to his name, his contributions to the field are widely recognized and respected. His time in academia allowed him to explore the theoretical underpinnings of his field, fostering a deep understanding of the scientific principles that drive technological advancements. This foundation has proven invaluable in his subsequent roles, allowing him to approach challenges with a unique perspective and a data-driven mindset.

The global perspective Schmitz possesses is not merely a result of his international education and career moves; it is ingrained in his approach to problem-solving and leadership. His ability to navigate diverse cultural landscapes and effectively communicate with individuals from different backgrounds has been instrumental in his success. Whether leading a team in Munich or collaborating with researchers in Tokyo, he demonstrates a keen awareness of cultural nuances and a commitment to fostering inclusive and collaborative environments.

Furthermore, Schmitz's expertise extends to the realm of intellectual property. He advises medium-sized businesses on the strategic development of their intellectual property portfolios, recognizing the importance of protecting innovative ideas and securing a competitive edge in the global marketplace. This understanding of intellectual property law and its strategic implications further enhances his ability to lead companies through complex technological landscapes.

Beyond his professional achievements, Alexander Schmitz remains deeply engaged with the world around him. Inspired by the intellectual curiosity fostered in his childhood home, he continues to follow global events, philosophical debates, cultural trends, and scientific advancements with great interest. This broad perspective informs his leadership style and allows him to anticipate future trends and challenges, positioning his companies for long-term success.

While online searches for Alexander Schmitz may occasionally yield unrelated results, such as mentions of medical professionals or individuals with similar names on social media platforms, the core narrative remains consistent: Alexander Schmitz is a driving force in the world of additive manufacturing, a strategic leader with a global perspective, and a dedicated innovator committed to shaping the future of technology.

His ability to seamlessly transition between academia and industry, coupled with his unwavering commitment to innovation, makes him a unique and highly sought-after leader. Alexander Schmitz's journey is a testament to the power of continuous learning, diverse experiences, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As he continues to lead Colibrium Additive and shape the future of additive manufacturing, his impact on the industry and the world at large is sure to be significant.

The scope of his influence stretches far beyond the confines of a single company or academic institution. Alexander Schmitz is actively shaping the future of manufacturing, contributing to a more efficient, sustainable, and innovative global economy. His commitment to enabling global manufacturers to leverage additive printing technology is driving advancements in various industries, from aerospace and automotive to healthcare and consumer goods.

Moreover, Schmitz's leadership extends beyond the purely technical aspects of additive manufacturing. He recognizes the importance of fostering a culture of innovation within his organization, empowering his teams to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of what is possible. This commitment to innovation is not limited to the development of new technologies; it also encompasses the development of new business models and strategies that can drive the adoption of additive manufacturing on a wider scale.

The personal attributes that underpin Schmitz's professional success are equally noteworthy. He is known for his integrity, his dedication, and his ability to inspire and motivate those around him. His colleagues describe him as a visionary leader with a strong sense of purpose, someone who is not afraid to take risks and challenge the status quo. These qualities, combined with his technical expertise and strategic acumen, make him a truly exceptional leader in the world of additive manufacturing.

As Alexander Schmitz continues to lead Colibrium Additive and shape the future of manufacturing, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring leaders and innovators around the world. His journey demonstrates the power of education, experience, and a unwavering commitment to excellence. It is a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a passion for innovation, anything is possible.

The complexities of additive manufacturing require a leader with a deep understanding of both the technical and business aspects of the industry. Alexander Schmitz possesses this unique combination of skills and knowledge, making him ideally suited to guide Colibrium Additive through the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. His strategic vision, coupled with his operational expertise, will be instrumental in driving the company's growth and solidifying its position as a leader in the additive manufacturing space.

Furthermore, Schmitz's commitment to sustainability is a key differentiator in a world increasingly focused on environmental responsibility. He recognizes that additive manufacturing has the potential to significantly reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize the environmental impact of industrial processes. By promoting the adoption of sustainable manufacturing practices, he is not only contributing to the success of his company but also to the well-being of the planet.

The challenges facing the manufacturing industry are significant, but Alexander Schmitz approaches these challenges with optimism and a can-do attitude. He believes that with the right technology, the right people, and the right strategy, anything is possible. His leadership is characterized by a willingness to embrace new ideas, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a deep understanding of the needs of his customers.

In conclusion, Alexander Schmitz is a truly remarkable individual whose contributions to the world of additive manufacturing are undeniable. His journey from academia to the corporate world, coupled with his unwavering commitment to innovation, makes him a role model for aspiring leaders and innovators around the world. As he continues to lead Colibrium Additive and shape the future of manufacturing, his impact on the industry and the world at large is sure to be profound.

The story of Alexander Schmitz is not just about individual success; it is about the power of collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. His leadership style, characterized by integrity, vision, and a deep understanding of the human element, sets him apart as a truly exceptional leader in the 21st century.

The impact of Alexander Schmitz extends beyond the immediate realm of additive manufacturing. He is actively involved in fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, mentoring young professionals and inspiring them to pursue their passions. His commitment to education and mentorship is a testament to his belief in the power of human potential and his desire to contribute to the development of future leaders.

His influence is also felt within the communities in which he operates. He is a strong advocate for corporate social responsibility, encouraging his companies to engage in initiatives that benefit the local community and address pressing social issues. This commitment to social responsibility is an integral part of his leadership philosophy and reflects his belief that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of society.

The legacy of Alexander Schmitz is not just about the technologies he develops or the companies he leads; it is about the values he embodies and the impact he has on the lives of others. His commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility serves as an inspiration to all those who aspire to make a difference in the world.

In the ever-evolving landscape of global technology and business, leaders like Alexander Schmitz are essential. Their vision, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence drive innovation and shape the future. As he continues to navigate the complexities of the modern world, his impact on the additive manufacturing industry and beyond will undoubtedly be significant and lasting.

His career also showcases the interplay between research and practical application. The theoretical grounding he gained during his academic years at the University of Vienna and the University of Sheffield has provided him with a deep understanding of the scientific principles underlying additive manufacturing. This theoretical knowledge, combined with his practical experience in operations, product development, and manufacturing, allows him to approach challenges with a holistic perspective and develop innovative solutions that are both technically sound and commercially viable.

Alexander Schmitz understands that additive manufacturing is not just about creating new products; it's about transforming entire industries. His strategic vision encompasses the entire value chain, from the design and development of new materials to the implementation of advanced manufacturing processes. He is committed to fostering collaboration between different stakeholders, including material suppliers, equipment manufacturers, and end-users, to drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies.

His perspective extends beyond the immediate benefits of additive manufacturing to encompass its broader societal impact. He is acutely aware of the potential of additive manufacturing to create new jobs, stimulate economic growth, and address pressing social challenges, such as healthcare and environmental sustainability. This awareness informs his leadership and guides his efforts to promote the responsible and sustainable development of additive manufacturing technologies.

Alexander Schmitz is a true visionary, a leader who is not only shaping the future of additive manufacturing but also inspiring others to join him in creating a better world. His dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him a force to be reckoned with in the global technology landscape.

The influence of Alexander Schmitz extends beyond the corporate boardroom and the academic lecture hall. He actively participates in industry conferences and workshops, sharing his knowledge and insights with other professionals and researchers. He is a sought-after speaker, known for his ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner. Through these activities, he contributes to the dissemination of knowledge and the advancement of the additive manufacturing field.

He also serves as a mentor to aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs, providing guidance and support to those who are seeking to launch their own ventures in the additive manufacturing space. His willingness to share his experiences and insights is a testament to his commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Alexander Schmitz recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships in driving innovation and accelerating the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies. He actively seeks out opportunities to collaborate with other companies, universities, and research institutions. These partnerships allow him to leverage the collective expertise and resources of different organizations to address complex challenges and develop innovative solutions.

His commitment to collaboration extends beyond the borders of his own company. He actively participates in industry consortia and standardization bodies, working with other stakeholders to develop common standards and protocols for additive manufacturing. These efforts are essential for ensuring the interoperability of different systems and promoting the widespread adoption of additive manufacturing technologies.

Alexander Schmitz understands that additive manufacturing is a constantly evolving field, and he is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation. He actively invests in research and development, exploring new materials, processes, and applications for additive manufacturing. He also closely monitors the latest trends and developments in the industry, ensuring that his company remains competitive and innovative.

His dedication to continuous learning and improvement is a key factor in his success. He is always seeking out new knowledge and insights, and he encourages his teams to do the same. This commitment to learning and innovation is essential for navigating the complexities of the rapidly changing additive manufacturing landscape.

Alexander Schmitz is a true leader, a visionary who is not only shaping the future of additive manufacturing but also inspiring others to join him in creating a better world. His dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him a force to be reckoned with in the global technology landscape. His contributions to the field are significant and lasting, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.

The global reach of Alexander Schmitz's work is evident in the diverse range of projects and initiatives he has been involved in. From developing new materials for aerospace applications to creating customized medical implants, his contributions have spanned numerous industries and have had a positive impact on countless lives.

His ability to navigate cultural differences and build strong relationships with people from different backgrounds has been instrumental in his success. He is fluent in multiple languages and has a deep understanding of different cultures, allowing him to effectively communicate and collaborate with people from all over the world.

Alexander Schmitz is a firm believer in the power of technology to solve some of the world's most pressing challenges. He is passionate about using additive manufacturing to create a more sustainable and equitable future. His commitment to social responsibility is evident in his efforts to promote the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies in developing countries and to address issues such as poverty and inequality.

His vision extends beyond the immediate benefits of additive manufacturing to encompass its long-term societal impact. He is acutely aware of the potential of additive manufacturing to transform industries, create new jobs, and improve the quality of life for people around the world. This vision drives his efforts to promote the responsible and sustainable development of additive manufacturing technologies.

Alexander Schmitz is a true global citizen, a leader who is committed to making a positive difference in the world. His dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him a role model for aspiring leaders and innovators around the world. His contributions to the field of additive manufacturing are significant and lasting, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.