HIGHLIGHTS ADVANCED MATERIALS & PROCESSES | JULY 2026 50 International Metallographic Contest at IMAT Deadline August 28 The International Metallographic Contest (IMC), an annual contest cosponsored by the International Metallographic Society (IMS) and ASM International to advance the science of microstructural analysis, will be held at IMAT 2026 in Quebec City, Canada, September 28-October 1. There are five different classes of competition in the IMC, covering all fields of optical and electron microscopy: Class 1: Light Microscopy—All Materials Class 2: Electron Microscopy—All Materials Class 3: Student Entries—All Materials (Undergraduate Students Only) Class 4: Artistic Microscopy (Color)—All Materials Class 5: Artistic Microscopy (Black & White)— All Materials Best-In-Show receives the most prestigious award available in the field of metallography, the Jacquet-Lucas Award, which includes a cash prize of $2000. For a complete description of the rules, tips for creating a winning entry, and judging guidelines, visit asminternational.org/ims/ membership/imc. SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR THERMAL SPRAY HALL OF FAME The Thermal Spray Hall of Fame, established in 1993 by the Thermal Spray Society of ASM International, recognizes and honors outstanding leaders who have made significant contributions to the science, technology, practice, education, management, and advancement of thermal spray. For a copy of the rules, nomination link request, and list of previous recipients, visit tss.asminternational.org or contact maryanne.jerson@asminternational.org. Nominations are due September 30 to award in 2027. TSS EMERGING PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM Engage the Next Generation of Thermal Spray Professionals The ASM Thermal Spray Society (TSS) invites students and early-career professionals to take advantage of a unique opportunity to grow their careers and connect with industry leaders. This program provides valuable industry insights, professional development opportunities, and access to a network of academics, researchers, and practitioners. Participants receive a one-year membership in ASM International and TSS, free access to ITSC conference proceedings, TSS eNews, and discussion groups, along with discounts on education and publications. For more information, visit asminternational.org/tss. AFFLIATE SOCIETY NEWS Committee was created to provide a disciplined and ongoing process for that work, ensuring that ASM’s Constitution, Board policies, and related governance documents remain clear, consistent, and effective. Equally important, the committee provides a mechanism for continuous improvement. Rather than allowing policies and procedures to become outdated over time, it conducts regular reviews, considers feedback from leaders, volunteers, staff, and members, and recommends thoughtful updates to the Board. This process strengthens transparency, accountability, and organizational effectiveness while helping ASM remain responsive to changing needs. Good governance is not about creating more rules. It is about creating clear, effective, and relevant guidance that enables leaders and volunteers to focus their energy on advancing ASM’s mission and serving our members. The work of the Governance Committee may often happen behind the scenes, but its impact is fundamental to the strength, stability, and future success of the Society. Finally, I encourage you to review two special announcements in this issue. First and foremost, we are proud to recognize the 2026 ASM Awardees (see page 45), whose achievements represent excellence in materials science, engineering, education, and service to our profession. We also welcome the 2026-2027 Student Board Members (on page 51). While serving in a non-voting capacity, these emerging leaders bring valuable perspectives that help ASM remain connected to the needs and aspirations of the next generation. Their participation strengthens our governance, supports leadership development, and reinforces our commitment to a vibrant and future-ready Society. Veronica Becker Executive Director, ASM International veronica.becker@asminternational.org
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