The ASME Rising Stars of Mechanical Engineering Celebration and Showcase at the International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition (IMECE) is a prestigious event designed to honor early-career researchers who have received recognition through NSF CAREER, ONR YIP, AFOSR YIP, DARPA YFA, and NIH New Innovator Awards.
This reception-style celebration commences with a brief introduction, followed by a poster session during which Principal Investigators (PIs) are invited to present their innovative work. Subsequently, a networking period allows PIs to connect with their peers and other professionals in the field.
In preparation for the event, registered PIs and their projects gain exposure through the ASME IMECE website, which features their photographs and bios. At the reception, each PI is awarded the "ASME Rising Star of Mechanical Engineering" certificate, recognizing their contributions and achievements. In 2024, IMECE had 74 Rising Star participants and many program managers in attendance. This provides an unparalleled opportunity for PIs to network with their program managers, engage with the community, and receive acknowledgment for their accomplishments in a supportive and celebratory environment.