In recent years, additive manufacturing (AM) has rapidly emerged as a significant manufacturing method. Recent advances in 3D printing, materials, and processing techniques have improved production speed, print resolution, and cost-effectiveness of AM. However, despite these advancements, educational gaps continue to prevent AM from being widely adopted in both industry and academia. These gaps highlight the necessity for targeted educational programs in AM by ensuring that the workforce has the necessary knowledge and abilities to successfully navigate and overcome the unique challenges posed by each 3D printing technique. The goal of the AM educational framework and knowledge development initiative is to empower a diverse range of users- including students, researchers, industry professionals, and early-stage enthusiasts interested in AM—to choose materials, processes, and techniques that meet their requirements while staying cost-effective. The framework also focuses on "Design for Additive Manufacturing" (DfAM) to develop expertise in CAD, simulation, and process parameter designing that are crucial to AM applications. The proposed work aims to train users to develop a deeper understanding of AM technique selection for specific scenarios by enabling them to balance resolution and material properties with the technical limitations of each technology. This paper reviews existing frameworks and proposes an educational program using a novel training-based approach to fill the knowledge and skill gaps in AM. This approach provides targeted training in technology selection, material handling, and hands-on experience across key AM processes, such as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), and Selective Laser Melting (SLM). The curriculum associated to this targeted training combines problem-based learning and practical training extracted from the industrial standards. Additionally, this work recommends future developments in AM education, such as creating training modules for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to facilitate immersive learning experiences and further enhance the user experience.