As an ASME member, you have several opportunities to enlighten the public and the membership on the contributions that have made mechanical engineering technology valuable, both to the growth of the nation and to the advancement of industry throughout the world. Equally important are your efforts to preserve this technology. Your research and documentation can further strengthen the integrity and interpretation of mechanical engineering history.

Many members start by compiling regional and state inventories. This often leads to nominations for the landmarks program. Some 200 landmarks have been designated, and as time passes, members are called on regarding upkeep on ASME plaques and preservation efforts. The prospects of putting together oral history interviews has expanded the opportunities for members to become involved with History and Heritage activities. Furthermore, we welcome the cooperation and participation of everyone in celebrating special anniversaries, preparing techical sessions and paper presentations, noting museum openings, and other activities.

ASME wants to help prepare members to contribute to the history of their profession. Historians need engineers — access to their technical expertise, to their work, and to people in the engineering community. Engineers need historians as well — access to their scholarship, exhibits, archives, workshops, lectures, and public education activities. Together engineers and historians can provide a perspective on the social and economic ramifications of technology, in a credible and relevant way.

The nominator from an ASME unit (section or technical community) often is the principal factor in the execution of History and Heritage activities in their respective units. The History and Heritage program offers ASME members ideas and suggestions to help you sponsor and organize various activities. Successful designation ceremonies and other events greatly influences public opinion of the mechanical engineering profession. The history of mechanical engineering is the foundation of the profession and our legacy to civilization. 

R. Michael Hunt, PE
Immediate Past Chair
ASME History and Heritage Committee