2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

The Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC), the largest university-based research center in the state of Maine, employs hundreds of undergraduate and graduate students every semester. These student employees work on various governmental and industry-funded projects, with many focusing on the formulation and testing of new composite materials and structures. The ASCC provides design, engineering, and hands-on experience that these students would not otherwise obtain during their formal university degrees.
As part of the greater university, the center also provides training for students to perform research on projects sponsored by the university, but not directly administered by the ASCC.

To recognize these student experiences in a measurable, tangible and demonstrable manner, the ASCC worked with the University of Maine System to develop micro-credential pathways. One such pathway developed as a pilot is aimed at concepts related to performing standardized ASTM mechanical tests on materials. The pathway consists of badges earned by demonstrating competency in various concepts related to accurately and safely performing mechanical tests, such as universal test frame operation, instrumentation and measurement tools, experimental design, and test documentation procedures. Students demonstrate mastery of these skills and practices through summative assessments, practical demonstrations in lab environments, and finally, in a research project as part of their paid laboratory work.

Development of this pathway also allows for standardization of student training and assessment of testing skills, making collected data quality more consistent. Upon completing the badges and the overall pathway, students gain digitally curated credentials showing demonstrated mastery of mechanical testing concepts and skills, which can be presented to their professional supervisors at the ASCC and at their future employers. These pathways can also be used for workforce development and continuing education, to update current worker skills and knowledge in a directed and efficient manner.