Jay Gogue Interim President | New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Jay Gogue Interim President | New Mexico State University-Main Campus
The Quality Control of Additive Manufacturing (QCAM) Consortium at New Mexico State University is advancing STEM education and workforce development with a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Minority Serving Institution Partnership Program. The initiative aims to create career pathways for students from Minority-serving Institutions to positions at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Labs and Plants.
“QCAM is bridging the gap between education and industry,” stated Borys Drach, QCAM director and NMSU mechanical and aerospace engineering professor. “We’re equipping students with the tools and experience needed to thrive in additive manufacturing and quality control, fields critical to the future of national security.”
Over three years, QCAM has engaged more than 1,700 students across various educational levels. In collaboration with Prairie View A&M University and Navajo Technical University, it offers diverse educational, research, and outreach opportunities.
“The program’s impact is evident in its numbers,” said Drach. “Twelve graduate students have been supported and co-mentored by faculty and staff scientists from partnering laboratories. Seventeen undergraduate research students have participated in hands-on research related to additive manufacturing and quality control.”
Additionally, 24 students from NMSU, NTU, and PVAMU have completed internships at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and Kansas City National Security Campus. More than 90 students have undertaken client-assigned capstone projects under expert guidance from these labs. Over 350 students have received education on key topics such as additive manufacturing technologies through curricula developed by QCAM faculty.
Furthermore, 1,200 local secondary school students have participated in interactive lab tours and workshops.
“The numbers speak for themselves,” said Satyajayant “Jay” Misra, NMSU associate dean of engineering research. “Our partnership is creating a ripple effect, inspiring a new generation of scientists and engineers to explore careers in additive manufacturing.”
A highlight of QCAM is its annual summer workshop hosted by NTU. This two-week event provides hands-on experience with advanced equipment under industry expert guidance.
“The summer workshop is a unique opportunity,” noted Kate Lewis, QCAM program coordinator. “Students gain not only technical skills but also connections that could launch their professional careers in national labs.”
Additive manufacturing or 3D printing is transforming industries like aerospace and healthcare. Through QCAM, students learn to design 3D-printed components ensuring their quality via rigorous testing.
QCAM recently released a video featuring student testimonials available online.
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