Abstract: Machine learning is transforming societies, and is beginning to see wide adoption in many engineering sciences. This seminar will introduce successes and open challenges in application of machine learning to innovate materials design and manufacturing technologies using case studies from my research career, as well as serving as the Deputy Editor for a manufacturing journal. Success will be demonstrated through recent results using machine learning together with pre-existing data to statistically inform the onboarding of a new laser powder bed fusion machine with a more powerful laser than the previous state of the art. Case studies will motivate a rubric for deciding when, how, and why to use machine learning in metals additive manufacturing, or more broadly any materials or manufacturing problem, including how to verify that the answer is reliable. This rubric also provides a basis for the “Data Foundations in Machine Learning for Engineers” course that I’ve developed here at Georgia Tech, as well as a proposed standard for documenting the use of machine learning models in data-driven qualifications of new materials and manufacturing processes.

Bio: Aaron Stebner works at the intersection of manufacturing, machine learning, materials, and mechanics. He co-directs the Georgia Artificial Intelligence Manufacturing (Georgia AIM) economic development corridor and is leading the design and implementation of the Georgia Tech AI Manufacturing Pilot Facility. Stebner joined the Georgia Tech faculty as an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering in 2020 after previous research work in academic, government, and industry labs. He also served as the Deputy Editor for the journal Additive Manufacturing. He has won numerous awards, including a National Science Foundation CAREER award, the Colorado School of Mines Researcher of the Year Award, a Long-term Invitational Fellowship for Research from the Japan Society for the Preservation of Science, and the Associate Professor Research Award from the G.W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering at Georgia Tech.

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A boxed lunch will be served on a first come, first served basis.