The Additive Manufacturing Users Group (AMUG) has revealed the recipients of its 3D printing scholarships.
The first, the Randy Stevens Scholarship, has been awarded to Wenchao Zhou, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Department of Engineering at the University of Arkansas. The second, the Guy E. Bourdeau Scholarship, has been gifted to Victoria Sears, a student at the University of Michigan (UM) pursuing a master’s degree in bioengineering.
According to Brett Charlton, chair of the AMUG Scholarship Committee, these scholarships recognize a passion for additive manufacturing through a student and an educator. “Dr. Zhou and Ms. Sears perfectly reflect what our scholarships seek to reward,” stated Charlton.
“Our pool of candidates was large, and the quality of the applicants was quite high. These factors made it a challenge to select the right individuals, but I believe that both of our recipients are truly deserving of this honor.”
As a result of the scholarships, the recipients will be recognized at the AMUG conference 2019, of which 3D Printing Industry is a Gold sponsor. Get in touch if you’d like to meet in Chicago during the event.
The Randy Stevens Scholarship
The Randy Stevens Scholarship is sponsored by In’Tech Industries, a Minnesota-based manufacturing service bureau. It is awarded annually to one high school teacher or college/university professor for their contribution to 3D printing in education and professional development.
Professor Zhou upholds various roles within the University of Arkansas’ Department of Mechanical Engineering. This includes assistant professor, lab director, and researcher. Professor Zhou also works with K12 students by teaching them about additive manufacturing through the EAST Initiative, a U.S. non-profit accelerating education with technology.
In addition, AMBOTS, an advanced manufacturing company, as well as the university’s AM³ Lab was founded by Professor Zhou. The AM³ Lab is responsible for innovations in swarm 3D printing, assembly, Microheater Array Powder Sintering (MAPS), and high-frequency inkjet printing.
“I sincerely believe that Dr. Zhou’s efforts in AM education and research will broaden the uses and applications of AM and promote the expansion of the AM community,” said Dr. Darin Nutter, a professor and department head for mechanical engineering, at the University of Arkansas.
The Guy E. Bourdeau Scholarship
The Guy E. Bourdeau Scholarship is financially supported by Cimquest, a New Jersey-based reseller of CAD/CAM and 3D Printing technology. It is also allocated annually, however, it is given to a college student for their contribution in additive manufacturing in education and professional development.
Sears’ research is based on bioinks for additive manufacturing, with an aim of optimizing its bioprintability and regenerative properties. This research stemmed from Sears’ time working in as an intern 3D Systems and Ford Motor Company. During this time, Sears learned to compound her own filaments as well as post-processing techniques to improve color and surface finish of powder-bed-fusion parts.
“The scholarship will not only allow me to make strong connections with those involved in the industry, but it will also greatly expand my knowledge on the latest technologies to prepare me for a future where I will be in the forefront in actively coalescing additive manufacturing and the medical field,” added Sears.
The AMUG Conference 2019 will commence on March 31st until April 4th, in Chicago, Illinois.
Don’t forget to nominate for the upcoming 2019 3D Printing Industry Awards.
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Featured image shows high-performance 3D printed ceramics from Lithoz at AMUG 2018. Photo by Michael Petch.
