The document provides an introduction to additive manufacturing (AM) technology. It defines AM as "a process of joining materials to make objects from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer." The document discusses the history and various applications of AM across industries like automotive, aerospace, and medical. It also outlines advantages like design complexity and customization enabled by AM. Challenges include limitations of materials and size of printable objects. Overall, the document gives a high-level overview of what AM is and its potential impact on various industries.