The process of metal additive manufacturing is becoming increasingly economically viable over traditional subtractive manufacturing processes. However, due to the infancy of the technology, there is a lack of documentation on how to rapidly and efficiently design and fabricate a given part. Our research at Iowa State University aims to aid in the discovery and communication of knowledge on the process as well as increase industry understanding of the modern additive process. Initial focus will be in support structures, as the technology requires a connection between a part and the base plate. This report will give an introduction as well as cover the key understanding and developments with support structures for metal additive manufacturing. A large volume of work has been completed during this research in collaboration with industries around Iowa. Many unique projects and designs have been fabricated utilizing this technology, each with their own unique challenge and outcome. This paper will discuss much of the work completed with these companies around design for additive, and the volume of new insights gained from each project.