Since the inception of 3D printing, an evolutionary process has taken place where specific user and customer needs have crossed paths with the capabilities of a growing number of machines to create value added businesses. Even today, over 30 years later, the growth of 3D printing and its utilization for the good of society is often limited by the various users' understanding of the technology for their specific needs. This paper presents an overview of current 3D printing technologies and shows numerous examples from a multitude of fields from manufacturing to education.