Karen A. Thole, distinguished professor of mechanical engineering Credit: Kate Myers/Penn State
Professor receives professional society’s heat transfer award
June 7, 2022
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Karen A. Thole, distinguished professor of mechanical engineering, was selected to receive the 2022 American Society of Mechanical Engineers Heat Transfer Memorial Award. Established in 1959 as a divisional award and elevated to a society award in 1974, the ASME Heat Transfer Memorial Award is given “to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of heat transfer through teaching, research, practice, design, service, leadership and invention,” according to the ASME website.
There are three categories in which one can receive the award: the science of heat transfer, the art of heat transfer and the general subject of heat transfer. Thole will receive the award in the art (application) of heat transfer. Each of the three categories is based on achievements through publications, patents or inventions; advancement of educational content or pedagogy; or exemplary community service with a focus on heat transfer. Only one person can win the award in each category annually.
To win the award in the application category, the recipient must have an extensive contribution record of research in heat transfer applications. Thole is being recognized for “exemplary contributions in developing innovative cooling designs for various gas turbine components using metal additive manufacturing,” according to the award letter.
In addition to research contributions, awardees also serve in a proactive role for ASME in technical sessions at national and international conferences; display leadership in student and early career mentoring in the field of heat transfer; and publish nationally and internationally recognized and impactful heat transfer papers.
In late October, Thole will receive with the Heat Transfer Memorial Award at the 2022 ASME International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition during the Heat Transfer Luncheon in Columbus, Ohio.
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