HIGHLIGHTS ADVANCED MATERIALS & PROCESSES | MAY 2026 47 FROM THE FOUNDATION Master Teacher Exemplifies Our Mission Master Teachers are the backbone of the ASM Materials Education Foundation (ASM MEF), serving as mentors, innovators, and ambassadors for materials science education across the country. These exceptional educators go beyond the classroom, dedicating their time and expertise to lead ASM Materials Camp–Teacher programs and inspire fellow educators to bring hands-on, real-world STEM experiences to their students. ASM MEF Master Teachers are carefully selected for their passion, leadership, and commitment to excellence in teaching. At Materials Camps, they guide educators through engaging experiments and demonstrations that connect core scientific principles to everyday applications. From exploring metals and polymers to understanding failure analysis, Master Teachers help translate complex materials science concepts into accessible, exciting lessons that teachers can immediately implement in their own classrooms. In addition to content knowledge, they help teachers understand what standards can be taught through labs tailored to each course. What truly distinguishes Master Teachers is not just their depth of content and curriculum knowledge, but their ability to inspire and empower fellow educators. They create collaborative, engaging learning environments that spark curiosity and build confidence, especially for teachers who may be experiencing materials science for the first time. Through this powerful ripple effect, each Master Teacher extends their impact far beyond the camp experience, reaching thousands of students by equipping educators to introduce new concepts, expand career awareness, and strengthen the STEM pipeline. Over the past 19 years, the Foundation has recognized outstanding educators through the prestigious Kishor M. Kulkarni Distinguished High School Teacher Award. This honor celebrates teachers who exemplify the spirit of innovation, mentorship, and dedication that define the Master Teacher community. The 2025 recipient, Justin Sickles of West Mifflin Area High School in Pennsylvania, embodies these qualities. A Master Teacher since 2013, he has influenced not only his own students but also educators nationwide through his work with ASM Materials Camp programs. Known for his organization, enthusiasm, and genuine care for others, Sickles has a gift for making complex subjects engaging and meaningful. His impact is perhaps best captured by his former student, Dr. Sarah Hejnosz, who credits him with changing the course of her life by making chemistry accessible and opening her eyes to possibilities in STEM. Colleagues echo this sentiment, praising his integrity, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. Master Teachers like Justin Sickles exemplify the mission of ASM MEF, transforming classrooms, empowering educators, and inspiring the next generation of materials science leaders. Carrie Wilson Executive Director, ASM Materials Education Foundation FROM THE FOUNDATION Wilson Membership and Communities Stay competitive, connected, and supported at every stage of your career. An individual membership with ASM International provides you with the resources, technical information, and connections you need to stay at the forefront of your field. • Acquire the skills you need to succeed • Connect with experts and other professionals in your field • Gain access to resources, information, and opportunities • Develop lifelong relationships ASM members have exclusive access to six Affiliate Societies, each uniquely tailored to specific technical interests and needs within our membership. These societies provide a comprehensive range of benefits, including educational programs, networking events, access to specialized technical resources, and opportunities for service involvement. Whether your focus is on a particular material, process, or industry sector, our Affiliate Societies are dedicated to supporting your professional development and advancement. Take a moment to browse each ASM Affiliate Society and decide if you could benefit from a network that fills a specific need you may have. These membership subscriptions can be added when you renew your ASM membership or when you join ASM. If you wish to add a membership at any other time, contact Member Services at memberservicecenter@asminternational.org or visit asminternational.org/membership/ membership-communities.
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