Drs. Turner and Shade lead the experimental and modeling components of the high-energy diffraction microscopy team. The effort continues to develop novel, high quality, and world-first datasets to validate micromechanical models with the longer-term goal of advancing microstructure-based component lifetime predictions for aerospace alloy systems. By leading a multi-national, 25-member team and through the invention of the rotational and axial motion system, a unique load frame used primarily at high performance synchrotron facilities to yield data on how microstructures evolve in-situ, Drs. Turner and Shade have profoundly impacted the international materials science community for their work in 3-D microstructure characterization, data analytics and groundbreaking model development.
Charles J. Cleary, after whom the award is named, contributed greatly to the solution of monumental materials problems and was known for his contributions across the Air Force. In 1920, he became chief of the textiles branch of the materials laboratory and developed fabric and finishes for fabric covered aircraft. His later activities in textile and rubber development led to solutions of critical air force problems during World War II related to both parachutes and aircraft tires.