Global Ambitions Drive Tanzanian ITSA Scholarship Recipient

For Proches Nolasco Mkawe, a young engineer from Tanzania currently pursuing a master’s degree in mechanical engineering at Binghamton University, State University of New York (SUNY), Binghamton, N.Y., receiving a 2024 ITSA Scholarship means more than just financial aid.

“[This scholarship] represents a gateway to networking with industry experts, accessing specialized resources, and participating in conferences that will further hone my skills. Being part of the American Welding Society community will expose me to cutting-edge research and foster connections that are essential for my growth as an engineer,” said Mkawe.

Scholarship Support Opens New Doors

Financial constraints initially made pursuing advanced studies in the United States a significant challenge for Mkawe. Fortunately, receiving a 2024 ITSA scholarship not only alleviated some of the financial burden but also provided him with the resources to fully engage in research and professional development activities related to thermal spray.

“Receiving the ITSA scholarship was an incredibly good feeling. It not only acknowledged my academic efforts but also provided vital financial support that eased the burden of my studies . . . I am committed to leveraging this support to maximize my learning and make significant contributions to the thermal spray community,” he said.

Finding a Passion for Thermal Spray

Mkawe earned a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology in Tanzania, which equipped him with a strong foundation in materials processing and surface engineering. Throughout his studies and professional work, he has been particularly drawn to how thermal spray techniques enable advanced coatings for wear resistance, corrosion protection, and thermal management. The capabilities of thermal spray in aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy are sectors he is passionate about.

“Thermal spray coatings will offer a solution to sustainability challenges by enhancing the longevity and performance of critical components. I envision a career where I can apply these technologies to develop durable, high-performance materials that can withstand harsh environments while reducing resource consumption. At SUNY Binghamton, I am focused on how thermal spray coatings can be optimized for applications in energy systems, contributing to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly technologies,” he shared.

Mkawe is particularly fascinated by the versatility of thermal spray technology in improving surface properties and extending the life of components across various industries. One of the challenges lies in understanding the complex interactions between process parameters and coating properties, which requires a deep technical grasp and precision.

Since receiving the scholarship, Mkawe has been fully engaged in his graduate coursework, deepening his understanding of materials and manufacturing processes. He has also been actively seeking ways to get involved with ITSA, identifying areas where he can contribute meaningfully through academic involvement, research interests, and future professional goals.

“My focus has been on aligning my academic efforts with ITSA’s mission and exploring how I can support the thermal spray community through research, collaboration, and potential volunteer opportunities,” he stated.

Looking Ahead and Giving Back

Mkawe will graduate in May and hopes to significantly impact the industry.

“I’m especially interested in roles that allow me to develop high-performance coatings for aerospace or biomedical applications. I would also be open to academic positions where I can continue contributing through research and mentoring . . . I chose to pursue further education to deepen my expertise in manufacturing and materials engineering, with the goal of contributing to innovative and sustainable solutions in the field,” he said. “My ultimate goal is to return to Tanzania and apply the knowledge I gain to improve manufacturing processes and energy systems in my home country.”

Carrying Forward a Legacy of Innovation

Being an ITSA scholarship recipient is an honor and responsibility for Mkawe. He feels motivated to carry forward the legacy of innovation and to help solve tomorrow’s challenges by applying and advancing thermal spray technologies. He believes that being part of this industry means being at the frontier of material solutions that impact various sectors.

He’s also looking to encourage other engineering students to pursue thermal spray studies.

“Explore the field with curiosity and persistence. It’s a multidisciplinary domain with vast opportunities for research, innovation, and practical impact. Hands-on experience and strong fundamentals in materials science and engineering will be key to success,” he said.

2025 Scholarship Opportunities

Applications for 2025 ITSA Scholarships will be accepted until October 30. Up to three one-year scholarships may be awarded. To apply, visit aws.org/about/industry-partners/itsa/ITSA-Scholarship. Winners will be announced in the fall.

CINDY WEIHL (cweihl@aws.org) is editor of SPRAYTIME.