Conference Tutorials
Conference tutorials provide a collaborative learning experience that allows attendees to take a deeper dive into the topics that are most interesting to our industry. These classes connect attendees and instructors for practical, in-depth learning, with demonstrations, hands-on materials, and case studies.
From Plants to Performance: Engineering the Next Generation of Biocomposites
Monday, September 21st | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Biocomposites are emerging as a unique class of engineering materials with performance characteristics that complement traditional glass and carbon fiber composites. This tutorial provides a practical introduction to natural fiber reinforcements, biobased resin systems, and the material science that drives their performance. Through real-world applications, manufacturing examples, and interactive material demonstrations, attendees will explore how to evaluate biocomposites based on engineering requirements, manufacturability, lifecycle considerations, and overall value—recognizing that sustainability is one benefit, but not the sole reason these materials are selected.
Presented by Patrick Flaherty | Owner & Engineer, PFDesignLab
Measuring Success: How Precision Metrology Safeguards the Bottom Line
Monday, September 21st | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
In composites manufacturing, even a millimeter of deviation can turn an expensive component into scrap, making precise measurement the ultimate safeguard for your bottom line. The session's comprehensive agenda focuses on the critical role of metrology in composites manufacturing, covering tools, molds, part inspection, and trim/drill inspection. The session will bridge theory and practice by diving into real-world case studies and applications spanning the aerospace, maritime, mold profiling, and surface roughness sectors. Led by an independent industry expert from East Coast Metrology (ECM)—a global leader in 3D scanning and ISO-accredited precision measurement—this session brings decades of field-tested engineering expertise straight to the classroom.
Presented by Gary Confalone | Vice President, East Coast Metrology
Lamination Theory in Practice: Designing Composite Structures
Monday, September 21st | 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Discover how engineers use lamination theory to develop more accurate and reliable composite designs. This tutorial introduces the core principles of composite micromechanics before examining practical applications, including laminate analysis, progressive failure, model calibration, environmental effects, and the unique tensile and compressive behavior of composite materials. Attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of how analytical methods and testing work together to support successful composite design.
Presented by Eric Kerr-Anderson | Associate Professor, Winona State University
