We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Andrew Tkach. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Andrew below.
Andrew, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think it takes to be successful?
When I started DIVO3D, my 3D printing, design, and scanning business in Marysville, Washington, I knew the road ahead wouldn’t be easy. Living with muscular dystrophy means navigating life with physical limitations that could easily discourage anyone from pursuing entrepreneurship. Yet, here I am, running a business that not only supports me but also makes a tangible difference in the lives of others. Reflecting on my journey, I believe success boils down to three key elements: adaptability, passion, and resilience.
Adaptability is essential when you’re dealing with any kind of limitation, whether it’s physical, financial, or logistical. In my case, muscular dystrophy makes certain traditional business operations—like manual labor or certain physical tasks—impossible. Instead of viewing this as a setback, I leaned into technology. My power wheelchair allows me mobility, but technology like 3D printers, CAD software, and scanners allow me to turn my ideas into reality without needing to leave my workspace. I’ve also adapted my processes to work smarter, not harder, by using wireless cameras, scanner holders with special turntables, and remote software to minimize physical presence. My family is a huge help with manual tasks, like changing filaments and performing equipment maintenance, all under my direction.
Passion drives everything I do. I’ve always wanted to create something with my own hands, but I’ve never truly been able to do so due to my disability. Discovering 3D printing three years ago changed everything. The first time I watched a 3D printer bring a digital design to life was nothing short of magical. It felt like I had unlocked a superpower—the ability to create, innovate, and bring my ideas into the physical world. A year ago, I got my first 3D printer, and since then, my imagination and my drive to start my own business have skyrocketed.
This passion isn’t just about what I can create for myself; it’s about what I can do for others. My mission is to help people with disabilities, especially when insurance struggles to cover their equipment or attachments. I’ve designed and provided solutions at no cost to individuals who would otherwise go without. Beyond that, I want to inspire others to dream bigger. 3D printing has the power to turn abstract ideas into tangible reality, and I aim to help people explore their imagination, build their own creations, and realize what’s possible. Whether it’s fostering creativity, solving everyday challenges, or sparking new ideas, I see 3D printing as a tool for empowerment. I also hope to contribute to increasing manufacturing here at home, encouraging innovation, and helping others bring their visions to life.
Resilience is perhaps the most critical ingredient. Success doesn’t come overnight, and setbacks are inevitable. I’ve faced moments where my disability felt like an insurmountable barrier, but each time, I reminded myself why I started. One particular moment stands out: early in my business, a 3D printer malfunctioned just days before a major deadline. With limited physical ability, fixing the issue was daunting. But instead of panicking, I turned to my network, leaned on my family for their invaluable support, and researched solutions until the problem was resolved. That experience reinforced my belief that resilience is less about never falling and more about always getting back up. My disability has taught me that every problem is an opportunity to get creative and find a solution. Rather than seeing limitations, I see challenges that push me to think outside the box and innovate.
Living with muscular dystrophy has taught me that success isn’t about eliminating challenges—it’s about learning to thrive in spite of them. Adaptability, passion, and resilience aren’t just traits I’ve developed; they’re the foundation of everything I’ve achieved with DIVO3D. My story isn’t just about running a business; it’s about proving to myself and others that success is possible, no matter the obstacles.
If you’re facing your own challenges, whether due to disability or other circumstances, my advice is simple: embrace your limitations, fuel your work with passion, and never, ever give up. Success isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being persistent. And trust me, it’s worth it.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name is Andriy Tkach, born and raised in Ukraine Lviv. Moved to USA and lived here for the past 16 years or so. I am the founder of DIVO3D, a 3D printing, design, and scanning business based in Marysville, Washington. Living with muscular dystrophy has undoubtedly shaped my journey, both personally and professionally, but it has never defined my limits. Instead, it’s fueled my creativity and resilience, driving me to build a business that not only brings ideas to life but also makes a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
I discovered 3D printing just three years ago, and it was a revelation. The ability to create something from nothing—to turn a digital design into a tangible object—sparked an immediate passion. A year ago, I purchased my first 3D printer, and what began as a hobby quickly evolved into a full-fledged business. DIVO3D is my way of channeling that passion into a service that helps others while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with technology.
At DIVO3D, we specialize in creating custom 3D-printed solutions, offering 3D design (CAD) services, and providing 3D scanning capabilities. Whether it’s helping individuals bring their innovative ideas to life, assisting small businesses with prototyping and manufacturing, or crafting personalized designs for unique needs, we pride ourselves on being versatile problem-solvers. One area that is especially close to my heart is designing and producing adaptive equipment for people with disabilities. When insurance falls short in covering necessary attachments or tools, I step in to provide customized solutions, often at no cost. Helping others overcome their challenges through technology is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.
What sets DIVO3D apart is not just the products we create but the philosophy behind them. I believe in empowering people to explore their imaginations and realize their ideas. For many, the idea of creating something unique might seem daunting, but I aim to make the process accessible, collaborative, and exciting. Additionally, I’m deeply committed to fostering innovation and contributing to local manufacturing here at home, helping to build a future where creativity and practicality go hand in hand.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the community I’ve built around DIVO3D. From my supportive family, who assist with manual tasks like equipment maintenance, to my clients, who continually inspire me with their ideas, DIVO3D is as much about people as it is about products. Every project is a collaboration, and every success story is shared.
For anyone considering working with DIVO3D, here’s what I want you to know: this is more than just a business. It’s a mission to use technology to solve problems, empower creativity, and make a difference. Whether you need a prototype for a groundbreaking invention, a custom part for a specific application, or just someone to help you navigate the possibilities of 3D printing, DIVO3D is here to help.
In the end, what drives me is the belief that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the potential to create and innovate. DIVO3D is my way of proving that—to myself, to my clients, and to anyone who dares to dream big.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
You have to try to put money on a lower priority list. Trying to understand your team and respect them is a key to having a flawless running business. Without a good team more issues arise in the business which leads to a shutdown. if you’re a founder or a CEO, you have to have people skills if you want to grow your company. My biggest advice is to watch your tone when communicating in text and notice your speech patterns when talking to people. Your team doesn’t need an obnoxious high ego leader. Bring yourself down to your employees level and try your best to figure things out. This will keep morale high and a smooth experience for all.
Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?
Birthday money and holidays. You really don’t need much capital. You need an idea that you have researched and tested, willingness and minimum distractions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://divo3d.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divo3d/profilecard/?igsh=YTh3YjFnaTFxNHJr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15YACpkxJi/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/divo3d-tulalip-bay?osq=divo3d
- Other: DIVO3D – 3D Printing, Design & Scanning Services | Marysville WA would love your feedback. Post a review to our profile. https://g.page/r/CTO14bWNDAv7EBE/review
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