Conversations with Jonathon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathon.

Hi Jonathon, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started TOA3D Printing almost nine years ago with one printer and a passion for figuring out how things work. I fixed my ford F150 Pickup truck after learning how to use and design 3d models and from there its been useful for others in need.

My curiosity for creating and improving designs turned into a drive to learn everything I could about digital fabrication. From CAD modeling and mechanical design to 3D scanning and powder-based SLS printing, every new challenge became part of a bigger vision — making advanced manufacturing accessible to anyone with an idea.

Its not always about business I get to have fun making things as well (Flexi-toys or art pieces)

TOA3D, which stands for “Teach One Another,” was built on the idea of sharing knowledge through technology. What began as small projects for my self opened doors to local schools and small businesses in Ventura County which grew into a full creative engineering studio that now supports clients around the world. Today, TOA3D provides FDM, SLA, and SLS and SLM 3D printing, advanced 3D scanning, and pressure forming services, turning ideas into tangible, functional results.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Running a one-person operation in such a technical and fast-moving field meant I had to become self-reliant — learning to repair equipment, calibrate machines, and even design replacement parts for my own systems. There were times when projects pushed my limits, either because the tools didn’t exist yet or because the problem required new skills overnight. I am always learning new skills and clients teach me something once in a while.

There were also challenges in balancing time and resources — especially when every hour of the day could mean building something new, fixing something broken, or researching a better way forward. But those challenges shaped the company’s strength. Each obstacle taught me resilience, adaptability, and creativity — the same qualities that define TOA3D today.

Late nights are no joke here in the shop, since I work during the day as a Maintenance Supervisor at a Senior apartment Complex its been a challenge balancing two completely different business and having two children which love to tag along at the office in the evening we get to spend time with each other and have base ball games they attend which sounds like a completely full schedule to the point of no more free time but this is my passion and I love every second of it. Even the torture tells me I am doing something great not just for me but the future generations here after.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in solving complex manufacturing problems through 3D design, scanning, and fabrication. My work bridges art and engineering — from creating precise industrial components and product prototypes to designing memorial sculptures, educational tools, and fully engineered parts.

What sets TOA3D apart is a combination of creativity, technical skill, and independence. I develop custom solutions when standard tools or equipment fall short, and I design products that improve existing systems — like the Nylon-12 feeder funnel that extends the life of the Bambu AMS printing system by thousands of hours.

I’m most proud that TOA3D’s work doesn’t just serve local clients in Ventura County — it contributes to a larger creative and technological movement. Every project, big or small, is proof that innovation doesn’t have to come from a factory; it can start from a single person with vision, persistence, and purpose

A 4-8 week Academy Course has just been created for the next Generation of engineers and Manufacturing in the world of 3D Printing. This will bridge the gap of knowledge and work force that America is lacking. Should create more jobs and give intelligence a boost for the better, I have partnered with Hadrian ( https://www.linkedin.com/company/hadrianautomation ) that helped build automated factories to help advance our factories.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
When I was ground up I had 3 other siblings. My mother was holding us together pretty well and she showed me how I could be what ever I can imagine and more. We grow up in a pizza restaurant environment where my parents owned a pizza parlor in Santa Paula and fast forward to my early 20’s I eventually worked at 2 different pizza joints Dominoes and Papa Johns, that’s where I meet my kids mother lol

Independence and being proud of what we can be/do is was what my mother taught me. It made me who I am today.

I loved video games when I was younger jumping on the Nintendo 64 and watching Pokemon was my go to entertainment. Spent alot of time outside riding my bike listening to NSYNC, Eminem and (Enigma – Sadeness) quite often and it got to me lol. It was the early 2000s and we have lived on the Avenue in Ventura at the time so it was pretty chill back then. Being next to the mountains gave me the opportunity to connect with nature and where we would pick black berries and make jam.

I often BBQ’ed, my mom left me to be the cook so now I get to share this with my kids among other interesting things that might show them what my mother had done for me.

Pricing:

• $50-$220 Desinging Fee
• $15-$600 Printing cost
• $65-$300 3D Scanning cost
• $300-$6,000Consultations
• $150-$2,000 Product Development

Contact Info:

• Website: https://TOA3D.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathon-hernandez-35aaa820b
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TOA3DPrinting
• Other: https://share.google/aS8uhNdfbpPJ0dsEs

Image Credits
TOA3D
Ojai3D
NEXA3D