Leading the Charge to Reshore American Manufacturing

SPENCER LOVELESS

Founder & CEO

Merit3D

For Spencer Loveless, that realization didn’t come from a conference or a case study—it came from firsthand experience. Before founding Merit3D, Spencer spent years navigating the frustrations that come with traditional manufacturing: the high cost of injection molds, the long timelines, and the logistical hurdles of overseas production. Every delay, every limitation, sparked a deeper question—why are we still building things this way? Raised in the heart of Utah’s industrial landscape and mentored by his mother while working his way up at Dustless Technologies, Spencer’s understanding of manufacturing is both strategic and deeply personal. He knows the pain points because he’s lived them—from trying to iterate on designs locked in steel molds to waiting months for overseas parts to arrive. And he knew there had to be a better path forward. That vision took shape in Merit3D, a company Spencer built to help manufacturers embrace additive manufacturing—a faster, more agile, and more cost-effective alternative. At its core, Merit3D

Manufacturing in America isn’t obsolete —it’s just overdue for reinvention.

is about giving companies the flexibility to design, test, and produce at the speed of innovation—without being bound by outdated processes or global supply chain constraints. But Spencer’s influence doesn’t stop at technology. As a leader, he brings a rare mix of operational experience, forward-thinking strategy, and a passion for reshoring American manufacturing. His work on multiple state and industry boards reflects a broader mission: to make advanced manufacturing accessible, sustainable, and scalable—especially in rural communities. TradeFlock sat down with Spencer Loveless for an exclusive interview to understand the story behind his leadership, his approach to innovation, and the vision driving Merit3D forward.

What was the biggest mindset shift moving from an established company to your own startup?

They say when you leave the shore, you truly learn how to sail. That’s exactly how it felt moving from Dustless Technologies to starting Merit3D. At Dustless, we had systems, processes, and a rhythm that had been finetuned over time. But launching my own startup? That was a whole different ocean. The biggest shift was embracing agility—not just as a concept, but as a daily mindset. Suddenly, every decision mattered more, every pivot had real consequences, and the pace was relentless. I had to get comfortable with uncertainty, make faster calls, and still hold onto quality and standards like they were non-negotiable. “It’s like building the plane while flying it—but making sure the bolts are tight, too.” That line sums it up. Startups are vulnerable, especially early on, and staying agile while laying down a strong foundation is both the challenge and the thrill.

What’s been the toughest part about proving Merit3D can outpace overseas manufacturing?

I knew from day one—we wouldn’t win by playing their game. Overseas manufacturers are machines of efficiency, but they can’t match our speed and flexibility.

There’s still an ocean between us —and that’s exactly where additive manufacturing gives us the edge.

We can go from idea to production in days, not months. That’s how we compete: by changing the rules, not chasing them.

What hobby keeps you grounded outside of work?

The best ideas don’t always come at a desk—they show up on a trail, in a kayak, or during an early morning Pickleball match. I recharge by getting outside with my family—camping, biking, hiking, boating—anything that gets us moving and away from screens. “Even when I’m traveling and work tries to follow me, the outdoors reminds me to slow down and stay present.” That balance keeps me grounded, fuels my clarity, and honestly, makes me a better leader.

How have your past roles shaped you as a CEO?

I didn’t just climb the ladder—I built a few of the rungs myself. Over the years, I’ve stepped into just about every role you can imagine: design, operations, accounting, manufacturing, you name it. Each one gave me a different lens on how a business truly works. What it really taught me is how to speak the language of every team. “I’d call myself a jack of all trades, master of none—but that’s what lets me connect the dots across the company.” I’m not the best designer or accountant in the room, but I know enough to understand challenges, ask the right questions, and help my team thrive. That’s shaped the kind of leader I try to be every day.

Where do you see Merit3D heading in the next five years?

I’ve always believed the future of manufacturing doesn’t have to be overseas—it can be right here, faster and smarter. At Merit3D, we’re building toward that future every day. “Our goal is simple: to produce millions of parts, faster than ever, right here in America.” Over the next five years, we’ll keep expanding our capabilities, mastering new technologies, and proving that additive manufacturing isn’t just an alternative—it’s the evolution of how things get made.