Joseph Beaman

Joseph Beaman is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin, holding the Cockrell Family Dean's Chair in Engineering Excellence. With a career spanning over four decades, he has pioneered research in advanced manufacturing, particularly in Solid Freeform Fabrication and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). His work has revolutionized rapid prototyping and manufacturing, enabling complex geometries across industries like medical and automotive.

Education:

• B.S.M.E. with high honors, The University of Texas at Austin (1972)
• Sc.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology (nonlinear control)

Beaman's research focuses on manufacturing technologies, control systems, and materials processing. His innovations include thermal control, mold-making techniques, and direct metal fabrication. He co-founded DTM Corporation (now 3D Systems), commercializing SLS technology globally. Recent publications highlight his contributions to fuel cell modeling, superalloy remelting, and ceramic infiltration.

Scientific Awards & Honors:

• NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award (1984)
• Distinguished Mechanical Engineer (2011)
• Faculty Excellence Award (UT Austin)
• DuPont Young Faculty Award
• Best Paper Awards in Dynamic Systems, Rapid Prototyping, and Vacuum Metallurgy
• Fellow of ASME

He actively mentors graduate students and collaborates with industry partners, while serving on technical committees like the TCOB Committee on Technology Policy. His work continues to shape additive manufacturing and control theory advancements.