Large-scale metal additive manufacturing processes—such as Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM)—are increasingly used in industries like aerospace, construction, shipbuilding, and automotive. WAAM enables the production of complex, lightweight, high-performance components with reduced lead times and material costs. However, the fabrication process involves transient temperature conditions that can affect mechanical performance, while the structural design itself can influence these thermal changes. My research investigates this dynamic interplay between structural design, manufacturing processes, and mechanical properties. Using finite element methods, I analyze how these factors interact and apply the insights to optimize both structural designs and fabrication strategies tailored for WAAM.