2027 Materials Experience
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May 10, 2027 at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) Date | Time
Monday, May 10, 2027 | One-Day Program [8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.] Location Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) | Washburn Shops 100 Institute Rd, Worcester, MA 01609 Cost | Capacity Tuition-free | Limited to ~60 Students |
May 17, 2027 at Boston University (BU) Date | Time
Monday, May 17, 2027 | One-Day Program [8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.] Location Boston University (BU) | Photonics Center 8 St Mary's St, Boston, MA 02215 Cost | Capacity Tuition-free | Limited to ~60 Students |
Registration
About the Program
The ASM Materials Experience is a free, immersive one-day program designed to give high school students a hands-on introduction to materials science and engineering (MSE) beyond what is typically found in standard school curricula.
- Hosted By: The Boston and Central chapters of ASM International in collaboration with Boston University (BU), Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), volunteers from local materials-related industries, and the ASM Materials Education Foundation.
- Locations: Two similar events are held annually; students may choose to attend either the BU or WPI session.
- Format: Participants rotate through seven interactive learning modules in small groups led by university faculty, expert staff, and passionate mentors.
- Date/Time: The two 1-day camps are held on consecutive Mondays in mid-May and run from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Lunch: Complimentary lunch is provided for participating students and attending teachers.
Mission Statement
Our initiative introduces high school students to STEM careers with a specific focus on Materials Science and Engineering through three core objectives:
- Real-World Impact: Illustrating the practical scope and applications of materials science.
- Engagement: Demonstrating that MSE is intellectually stimulating, fun, and vital to modern society.
- Career Pathways: Highlighting rewarding, high-demand career opportunities available within the field.
Who Attends?
We welcome high school students from public, private, charter, and vocational schools and homeschool. Students may attend individually, in groups, or as part of a school field trip. Attendees have come from across Massachusetts and neighboring New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
Event Format & Curriculum
The day centers around dynamic 25-minute learning modules that pair exciting hands-on activities with fundamental scientific explanations.
The rotating curriculum features a variety of fascinating subjects, including:
The rotating curriculum features a variety of fascinating subjects, including:
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How to Apply
Space is limited to about 60 students for each event. Early registration is encouraged.
- Eligibility: Open to all high school students.
- Sign up: Click the "Reserve Your Spot" button above or the link on the flyer and complete the registration form.
- Transportation: Attendees must arrange their own transportation.
- Educators: Teachers interested in bringing a large group of students should email [email protected].
History & Background
- Origins: The concept began in 2000 when the ASM Education Foundation hosted the inaugural ASM Materials Camp in Materials Park, Ohio.
- New England Launch: In 2006, local chapters partnered with the Foundation to launch the first regional event at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI).
- Expansion: Driven by high demand, a second annual event was established at Boston University (BU) in 2012. Aside from a temporary pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, both events have run successfully every year.
Organization & Support
ASM Materials Experience New England is organized by the Boston and Central MA Chapters of ASM International and powered by the dedication of WPI and BU faculty, administrators, & graduate students, and industry volunteers. Financial backing comes from ASM alongside generous donations from individual contributors and corporate sponsors.
The Journey
Get Involved
Want to Volunteer or Contribute?
We are always looking for passionate individuals to help support our student and teacher programs. If you would like to assist during event days, help with coordination, or contribute as an individual donor, please reach out to our team at [email protected] & [email protected].
Partners & Sustaining Members [Sponsors]
Our programs are made possible through the generous support of corporate partners, foundations, and individual donors. By becoming a sustaining member or corporate sponsor, you help fund educational materials, meals, and free access for students and teachers across New England. To discuss partnership tiers and sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at [email protected] & [email protected].
We are always looking for passionate individuals to help support our student and teacher programs. If you would like to assist during event days, help with coordination, or contribute as an individual donor, please reach out to our team at [email protected] & [email protected].
Partners & Sustaining Members [Sponsors]
Our programs are made possible through the generous support of corporate partners, foundations, and individual donors. By becoming a sustaining member or corporate sponsor, you help fund educational materials, meals, and free access for students and teachers across New England. To discuss partnership tiers and sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at [email protected] & [email protected].