HIGHLIGHTS ADVANCED MATERIALS & PROCESSES | JULY/AUGUST 2023 67 FACE OF MATERIALS ENGINEERING you can search out someone whose interest in learning and asking questions inspires you. One person who has inspired me to be a lifelong learner is Wayne Potratz, sculpture professor emeritus from the University of Minnesota. I first met Prof. Potratz while attending the Western Cast Iron Art Alliance (WCIAA) 7th biannual conference in October 2022. I did not realize it, but his handout “Hot Metal” was what my professor structured his foundry class around. I then found out that Wayne Potratz was teaching a workshop on smelting iron from Minnesota iron sand using a hybrid brick tatara furnace at a workshop during the National Conference on Contemporary Cast Iron Art and Practice (NCCCIAP) in Birmingham, Alabama. I was able to jump at this opportunity and learn about the history, ritual, and physical process. My artistic interests in metals have allowed me to attend and meet some amazing people at IMAT, NCCCIAP, WCIAA, and other events and conferences. I have been fortunate to learn by doing and learning from what others have done. I want to encourage others to keep learning and find people who inspire and have knowledge about things you want to know more about. Always keep learning and find something to be passionate and curious about. I look forward to sharing knowledge at the upcoming IMAT conference in Detroit. I am sure I will learn something new from others and hopefully share my passion as well. Always ask questions, seek out people who have the knowledge you are after, and be willing to share what you know with others. David Lammers Manufacturing Engineer, Total Component Solutions Emerging Professionals Committee Athavale THE FACE OF MATERIALS ENGINEERING This profile series features members from around the world at all stages in their careers. Here we speak with Viraj Ashok Athavale, metallurgist at Nucor Steel Memphis Inc., Tenn. What part of your job do you like most? My transition from academia to industry signifies the convergence of two distinct realms, blending theoretical insights with practical applications. By actively participating in the operations of a steel mill, I strive to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial implementation. This pursuit not only advances the boundaries of physical metallurgy but also sets the stage for a collaborative future where academia and industry synergistically propel innovation and drive progress. I have hands on experience from the academic side working on several industry sponsored research projects. Now I get to see and set expectations from the industry side. That excites me the most. What attracted you to engineering? One of the driving forces that led me toward engineering is the endless potential that lies within manufacturing technologies at scale. The ability to conceive, design, and implement processes that can efficiently and effectively produce tangible results has always intrigued me. Whether it is the production of goods, the creation of infrastructure, or the development of groundbreaking innovations, the application of engineering principles unlocks the power to bring ideas to life and shape the world we live in. Best career advice, given or received: After receiving my master’s degree in metallurgy and materials science, I started working for an iron powder manufacturing organization, where my manager recognized my potential and dedication for metallurgy. He urged me to pursue obtaining a doctorate. It was a turning point that opened doors to opportunities I had never imagined. What are you working on now? Currently, I am immersed in the fascinating world of a steel mill, where I am gaining a comprehensive understanding of its overall operations. Tell us about your involvement with ASM. Why are you a member? When I first joined ASM in 2010, little did I know that my involvement would lead to a remarkable journey of personal and professional growth. In 2017, during the Heat Treat Conference held in Columbus, Ohio, I had the privilege of connecting with numerous, like-minded individuals, from academic researchers to industry professionals, who shared my passion and interests. Then I started getting involved with other ASM affiliated societies and activities. I am currently serving on the editorial committee as well as the quality monitoring committee of the Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance. I also volunteer on the IDEA committee, and with the Heat Treating Society. ASM offers tremendous resources. Do you know someone who should be featured in an upcoming Face of Materials Engineering profile? Contact Vicki Burt at vicki.burt@asminternational.org.
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