Student Travel Support for 2026 Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference and 54th North American Manufacturing Conference; State College, Pennsylvania; 14-18 June 2026

This grant provides financial support for approximately 37 undergraduate students, graduate students, and recent graduates from institutions of higher education in the United States to participate in the 2026 Manufacturing Science and Engineering Conference (MSEC) and the 54th North American Manufacturing Research Conference (NAMRC), to be held at The Pennsylvania State University in June 2026. These co-located conferences constitute the leading research forum in advanced manufacturing in North America, bringing together researchers from universities, industry, and government laboratories. Participation in such conferences is often limited by financial constraints. By reducing financial barriers to attendance, this project expands participation in cutting-edge scientific exchange and strengthens the education and training of the future manufacturing workforce. Advanced manufacturing underpins critical sectors including energy, transportation, health care, and defense. Supporting student engagement in this field promotes the progress of science and engineering while contributing to national prosperity, workforce development, and technological leadership.

The project will implement a structured and transparent participant selection process to award support covering conference registration and lodging expenses. Eligibility will require full-time enrollment at a United States institution or recent graduation, along with active participation in the conference through presentation of peer-reviewed research, poster contributions, or involvement in student-focused professional development activities. Applications will be evaluated using predefined criteria that emphasize variety of institutions and sectors, and encouragement of first-time conference participation. Awardees will attend the full conference program, including technical sessions and professional development forums. The conference program spans additive manufacturing, manufacturing processes, automation, manufacturing systems, quality and reliability, life cycle engineering, advanced materials processing, and related emerging areas. Through exposure to peer-reviewed research, plenary lectures, and cross-sector networking, supported participants will deepen technical expertise, strengthen professional skills, and contribute to the long-term advancement of advanced manufacturing research and innovation in the United States.

This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.

Award Number: 2619282
Principal Investigator: Chinedum Okwudire
Funds Obligated: $29,600
State: MI