The Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) is an international professional association founded in 1944. We advance the study and application of lubrication between moving surfaces. We strive to improve the performance of equipment and products, conserve resources and protect the environment through best management practices. This interdisciplinary field of tribology and lubrication engineering encompasses aspects of physics, chemistry, metallurgy, applied mathematics, material science, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering and/or applied mechanics.

The Chicago Section of the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (Chicago STLE) offers this scholarship to help encourage college students into the lubrication and tribology industry.

Students from all STEM disciplines, including but not limited to tribology, materials science, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, biology, chemistry, and related fields, are invited to participate. Candidates should be graduate students or 2nd year or above undergraduate students studying in the geographical areas from which the STLE Chicago Section draws its membership (IL, WI, MN, IN, IA).

Students should email applications & a letter of recommendation from their advisor to Dr. Ryan Hippman at Ryan.Hippman@fuchs.com.

The winner(s) is invited to attend a regular Chicago Section STLE meeting, together with a guest, to receive their award. A complimentary dinner is provided. The winner will also be awarded a complimentary 1-year associate membership in STLE.

Student Name, Email, Phone number:

Name, Email, phone number and referral letter of your Advisor will also be needed.

Graduate students are asked to submit a 300 to 500-word essay describing their research proposal in their STEM discipline. Visual aids such as figures or diagrams may be included to support the content. Undergraduate students may submit a more general essay discussing the societal importance of their chosen research field.

Applications and referral letters should be emailed to Dr. Ryan Hippman by March 18th, 2026.