The ODU SAMPE Student Chapter earned third place in the Carbon Fiber Square Beam category at the 2026 SAMPE University Research Symposium and Student Bridge Competition. The competition challenges student teams to design and manufacture composite bridge beams that are evaluated against specific dimensional, weight, and mechanical performance requirements. Our chapter submitted four total entries, including carbon- and glass-fiber I-beam and square-beam designs, giving our members hands-on experience in composite design, manufacturing, and structural testing.

Beyond the competition, the SAMPE Conference gave our chapter the opportunity to connect with composites manufacturers, material suppliers, equipment providers, and other industry professionals. Several of these conversations developed into continuing partnerships, with new sponsors supporting our chapter through materials, equipment, technical knowledge, and opportunities for student engagement. These relationships are helping us expand composites education and hands-on manufacturing opportunities for ODU students.

 The ODU SAMPE Chapter hosts hands-on workshops focused on fundamental and applied composite manufacturing techniques. These sessions are designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving students direct experience with processes used in industry.

A recent workshop series centered on a Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) Mode I crack growth experiment, where students fabricated test specimens and evaluated delamination behavior under controlled loading. Through this process, participants were introduced to the mechanics of fracture in composite laminates and the role of manufacturing quality in structural performance

The ODU SAMPE Student Chapter partnered with Global Technical Systems (GTS) to host an open house at the GTS Rapid Prototyping Center, bringing students and industry professionals together to explore composite manufacturing and career opportunities. Composites One supported the event by sponsoring catering, helping create an informal environment where students could connect with engineers, manufacturers, and other professionals from the composites industry.

The event included a guided shop tour highlighting GTS’s new ROTH filament-winding system, composite manufacturing capabilities, and a variety of projects completed at the facility. Students gained firsthand exposure to production equipment and real-world applications while learning how composite components move from design through manufacturing. The open house also helped strengthen relationships among ODU, SAMPE, GTS, and regional industry partners while expanding opportunities for future technical events and collaboration.