The Texas A&M University Chapter of Material Advantage has been nationally recognized as a 2025 Chapter of Excellence, earning a $450 cash award and a plaque for its outstanding achievements in leadership, outreach and professional development.
The distinction reflects a year of remarkable growth and accomplishment for the student-led organization. Through a strong focus on engagement and professional development, the chapter expanded its membership by over 45 students, hosted more than 50 events, and strengthened its partnerships across academia, industry and professional societies.
“Earning the Chapter of Excellence Award places our students among the top Materials Advantage chapters nationwide," said Dr. Ankit Srivastava, faculty advisor of the chapter. "It is a testament to their commitment to professional growth, outreach and collaboration, values that truly embody the Aggie spirit."
During the 2024–25 academic year, the chapter achieved several milestones that exemplify its continued commitment to excellence. Members earned $13,000 in scholarships from ASM International Houston, and The Minerals, Metals & Materials (TMS) Bowl Team advanced to a fourth-place finish at the national level, surpassing its previous ranking.
The Aggie Bladesmithing Team also gained national recognition at the 2025 TMS Bladesmithing Competition for their presentation of the “Modernized Khanda.” This forged, student-designed blade blends historical artistry with modern engineering.
Earning the Chapter of Excellence Award places our students among the top Materials Advantage chapters nationwide. It is a testament to their commitment to professional growth, outreach and collaboration, values that truly embody the Aggie spirit.
In addition, the chapter was recognized in the Fall Membership Challenge for having the Most Creative Recruitment Strategies, reflecting their innovative spirit and camaraderie.
Through close collaboration with leading industry partners, including Baker Hughes, Nucor, ARC Specialties, Ethos Engineering and Odin Heavy Industries, students gained hands-on exposure to materials science applications in real-world settings. The chapter’s technical and career development programming – including Fusion 360 workshops, resume and mock interview sessions, and networking events with industry professionals – prepares students for future success while fostering a strong sense of community within the department.
“Receiving this award energizes our chapter and the department," said Dr. Brady Butler, co-faculty advisor of the chapter. "It validates the impact our students are making and sets the stage for continued growth in materials education and engagement at Texas A&M."
The chapter also extended its impact beyond campus through service and outreach initiatives, including Aggieland Saturday, Discipline Introduction Saturday, The Big Event, and the Engineering Tailgate. These efforts introduced K–12 and first-year students to materials science and showcased how Aggie engineers apply their knowledge for the public good.
“The chapter’s growth and success are entirely due to my fellow students’ enthusiasm, initiative and commitment to strengthening the materials science and engineering community,” said Chase Katz '25, a recent Texas A&M University graduate and current Ph.D. student in materials science and engineering “The most rewarding part of the year was watching our events create opportunities for members, many of whom secured jobs and internships, while fostering their interpersonal and professional growth. These achievements reflect the overall values of our department.”
The Texas A&M Material Advantage Chapter’s achievements demonstrate the department’s broader mission: prepare students to lead with purpose, innovate responsibly, and serve society through discovery and engineering excellence. As the chapter looks ahead, it remains committed to advancing materials science and inspiring the next generation of Aggie engineers.