The IMS Education Committee, chaired by Laura Moyer, recently sent out a survey to members to assess education/training needs. I would like to thank everyone that responded; you provided valuable feedback that will be used to shape the IMS education offerings.
An overwhelming number of respondents (80%) stated that they prefer to take courses that combine practical and theoretical components (rather than just one or the other). 54% prefer these courses to be “blended,” meaning a portion of the class is performed online prior to a 2-3 day lab experience. The topics in which members are most interested include metallography/microscopy and interpretation of structures, though a diverse range of topics were suggested.
75% of respondents work with steel and 63% work with aluminum and aluminum alloys, making them the materials with which members work the most; cast iron, copper alloys, superalloys, and titanium alloys are also well represented. Furthermore, members wrote in that they work with biomaterials, diamond composites, kovar, paints, polymer-metal composites, stellite, and many other interesting materials, showing off a diverse cross-section of our society.
While many members stated that they prefer taking classes at ASM International headquarters (33%), a large number instead favored online courses (29%) or regional locations (25%). IMS currently offers education courses in a variety of settings, and this survey validated that approach.
The IMS Education Committee and IMS Board of Directors are currently reviewing the results and deciding how to follow up. If you have any feedback regarding this survey, or if you have any questions about IMS education offerings in general, please feel free to contact Sharon Berezne at ASM International.
Sincerely,
George K. Abraham IV
IMS Board Director and Education Committee Liaison
