The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) has been granted $292,000 from the U.S. Department of Energy to partner SME Student Chapters with existing Industrial Assessment Centers (IAC) at universities nationwide. IAC assessments focus on industrial energy conservation techniques through energy audits and assessments of manufacturers. This grant broadens the program to assess manufacturing processes for energy savings. Starting this year, SME will partner with six universities, incrementally expanding the program over the next three and a half years. In total, SME will partner with all 24 IACs participating in the DOE program, providing invaluable hands-on industry experience for future manufacturing professionals. “SME’s student members are the future manufacturing workforce, and engaging them with the IACs across the country will provide them with critical skills and training while producing real cost savings for small to mid-sized manufacturers.” said Joe LaRussa, director of membership. “This program typifies how SME, industry and government can collaborate to strengthen manufacturing as a critical component of the U.S. economy.” University-based IACs across the country provide students with critical skills and training to conduct energy assessments in a broad range of facilities. SME faculty advisors will work directly with IAC directors to guide the students during the assessment process.