Shaun’s Journey from the MAS ETH DFAB to 3D Printing Innovation in Singapore

MAS ETH DFAB alumnus Shaun Wu is now working in Singapore’s dynamic construction and engineering sector, applying his expertise in digital fabrication and computational design. As part of the inaugural MAS ETH DFAB class, he reflects on how the experience of exploring, experimenting, and discovering his passions has been pivotal in shaping his career.

Shaun, you were the part of the first generation who participated in the MAS ETH DFAB. Why did you think, the MAS ETH DFAB would be the fitting further educational programme for you?

ETH has established itself as a frontrunner in digital fabrication, with the MAS DFAB offering advanced robotic setups and fostering a multidisciplinary, collaborative, and international environment. This unique combination created the ideal conditions for me to expand my education and skill set. On top of that, being surrounded by top experts and talented students from around the world was a major advantage in my learning journey.

You were trained in Taiwan, did your further education in Switzerland and are now based in Singapore at a big engineering and consulting firm and do teaching as well. How do you experience the Building and Construction Authority on Advanced Construction Technology in 3D Printing in your region?

It was pure coincidence that right after graduation, I came across a position in Singapore looking for someone with skills in computational design and digital fabrication. To be honest, I wasn’t even sure where Singapore was at the time. Over the years, I’ve gained a better understanding of Singapore’s unique challenges—it's a highly developed, land-scarce country that relies heavily on foreign labor for construction. The disruptions caused by COVID-19 made these vulnerabilities even more apparent, causing project delays and underscoring the need for more resilient, automated construction solutions.

Interestingly, Singapore is perhaps the only country seriously exploring 3D printing for high-rise buildings. The government is investing significant resources into applied research, helping bridge the gap between academic innovation and real-world industry application.

Can you name a current project you’re involved in—whether research or commercial—and share some of the challenges you’re facing?

We’re currently the lead engineering consultant for a national research project by the Singapore Housing Development Board focused on developing an advanced 3D concrete printing system. The project tackles several key challenges, including limitations in current mortar-based mixes, inconsistent print quality, and the inefficiency of standalone printing systems. But perhaps the most pressing issue is the lack of building codes that define how 3D printed concrete can be used for structural, load-bearing applications. To address this, we’re working on a unique design-by-testing framework that ensures the safety and quality of printed structures while aligning with existing regulatory standards.

What key message do you convey to your students?

Most of my students are practicing civil engineers who are curious about where the construction industry is headed in the near future. I always remind them that, as civil engineers, they are at the heart of infrastructure and innovation for our built environment. 3D Concrete Printing isn’t here to replace what you know — it’s here to expand your toolbox and complement your engineering expertise. It's about evolving with the industry, not being left behind by it.

Where would you like to see the AEC industry move in the coming years?

I see digital fabrication not just as a tool or trend, but as a paradigm shift. It pushes the AEC industry to become smarter, more sustainable, and deeply integrated with digital processes. It’s time we stopped seeing innovation as optional — it’s essential.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about the MAS ETH DFAB or NCCR DFAB experience?

Enjoy it and have fun. Studying at ETH DFAB was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It wasn’t easy—there were many moments when I had no clear path or guidelines. But that’s part of the experience: exploring, figuring things out, and discovering what excites you (and what doesn’t). So, enjoy the journey. Embrace the challenges and uncertainties—they’re all part of the learning process. It’s what makes the experience truly rewarding.

Former researchers of the NCCR Digital Fabrication and MAS ETH DFAB participants hold key positions in science and industry worldwide. They lead research centres and institutes at universities, are represented in national academies, and play influential advisory roles in industry. As pioneers in digital fabrication, they shape the global discourse and drive innovation in their fields. Through our alumni portraits, we showcase their journeys and explore how their experiences at NCCR DFAB continue to influence their work today.