Hypersonic workshop series launches successfully in Washington, DC

The American Ceramic Society (ACerS) and the United States Advanced Ceramics Association (USACA) kicked off their newly extended “Professional Development for Hypersonic Materials” program with a successful workshop on Oct. 29, 2025, at USACA’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. The event marks the first of 18 workshops to be delivered over the next two years, following the Department of Defense’s recent commitment to a two-year funding extension for this critical training initiative.

Twenty-four professionals from academia, industry, and government contractors gathered for the intensive full-day workshop focused on ultrahigh-temperature ceramics and composite materials for hypersonic applications. The program, led by Purdue University Professor Rodney Trice, delivered eight comprehensive modules covering everything from the history of hypersonic flight to cutting-edge developments in thermal protection systems.

Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees particularly praising the depth and breadth of information provided. The intimate group size fostered an interactive learning environment where participants could pose questions throughout the day. Many noted the value of the extensive references and lecture materials provided, which will serve as lasting resources for their work in hypersonic materials development.

“Launching this two-year series with such positive feedback confirms the tremendous need for accessible hypersonic materials education,” says Amanda Engen, ACerS director of communications and workforce development. “Over the next 18 workshops, we’ll equip hundreds of professionals with the comprehensive understanding of thermal protection systems, ceramic matrix composites, and ultrahigh-temperature materials that are essential for advancing this critical technology sector.”

For those who could not attend the in-person session, Trice will deliver another iteration of this comprehensive course virtually on Jan. 6–7, 2026. Interested professionals can register at https://ceramics.org/course/virtual-hypersonic-workshop-2026.