HIGHLIGHTS ADVANCED MATERIALS & PROCESSES | JULY 2026 52 Nominations may be proposed by any member of either Society. Submit your nominations by September 1 for consideration. Recommendations should be submitted to the headquarters of either Society. View sample forms, rules, and past recipients at asminternational.org/about-asm/awards. To nominate someone, contact Christine Hoover at christine.hoover@ asminternational.org for a unique nomination link. You may also contact Deborah Hixon at TMS Headquarters, hixon@tms.org. FROM THE FOUNDATION Materials Camp Expansion What began as a bold idea to inspire students and equip teachers with hands-on materials science experiences has grown into a national movement. Across the country, educators, ASM members, universities, and industry partners are opening doors for the next generation of innovators through immersive, engaging camps that bring materials science to life. This summer, the ASM Materials Education Foundation is reaching hundreds of teachers to reach thousands of students: ASM Materials Camps for Teachers will take place in 50 locations across North America. This year’s expansion includes six new camp locations: Charlotte, North Carolina; Newark, New Jersey; Latrobe, Pennsylvania; Indianapolis; Ames, Iowa; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Each new site represents more than a pin on a map, it represents new students discovering STEM careers, new teachers gaining confidence in materials- focused instruction, and new communities connecting to the future of manufacturing and engineering. In addition to the traditional camp experience, the Foundation has significantly expanded teacher opportunities in recent years with advanced, specialty, and virtual camps now available. A new Teacher Institute program includes the camp experience and year-round professional development opportunities to provide additional guidance to teachers supporting students from underrepresented groups in STEM. The continued growth of Materials Camps reflects the incredible dedication of ASM volunteers, educators, donors, and industry champions who understand the importance of strengthening the talent pipeline. Together, we help students see that materials science is not only relevant to their everyday lives but also filled with exciting career opportunities that can shape the future. At each camp, teachers participate in hands-on activities that spark curiosity and encourage problem-solving. They explore metals, polymers, ceramics, composites, and advanced manufacturing technologies while interacting with professionals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience. Teachers attending Materials Camps return to their classrooms with new curriculum, lab activities, and renewed enthusiasm that ultimately impacts thousands of students over the course of their careers. The momentum surrounding Materials Camps comes at a critical time. Industries across the country continue to face growing workforce shortages in STEM and manufacturing fields. The ASM Materials Education Foundation is proud to be part of the solution by building awareness, excitement, and access to manufacturing and materials science education at an early age. As we celebrate reaching teachers through 50 camp locations this summer, we are also looking ahead to optimize the experience and curriculum delivered to the teachers and strategically expand the program’s reach. With ongoing support from our ASM community and other partners, we can continue expanding these opportunities for students and educators in underserved and emerging regions. Every teacher empowered, every student inspired, and every volunteer engaged helps create a stronger future for the materials science and engineering professions and the broader STEM workforce. The future of manufacturing and materials science and engineering starts in these classrooms, laboratories, and Materials Camp experiences. Together, we are making a material difference. Kip Findley, FASM Chair, ASM Materials Education Foundation EMERGING PROFESSIONALS Toolkit Serves as Essential Resource The Engaging Young Members Toolkit is a practical guide for ASM chapters to attract, involve, and retain students and early-career professionals. It emphasizes building relationships with local university Materials Science & Engineering students and Material Advantage (MA) chapters as the best long-term pipeline for emerging members. Chapter leadership is encouraged FROM THE FOUNDATION Findley Grassi
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