New ways to connect, learn and achieve at the annual meeting

By Rebecca Lintow, CAE, Executive Director | TLT Headquarters Report March 2025

This year’s agenda features something for everyone with these exciting updates to the programming.
A woman speaks at the podium in front of a large audience.
This time of year, the STLE headquarters staff is busy gearing up for the 79th STLE Annual Meeting & Exhibition, May 18-22 in Atlanta, Ga. STLE’s premier event will feature some exciting new events and offerings this year alongside the technical education and networking that have always made the annual meeting so valuable to attendees. 

STLE is debuting The Art of Tribology, a photo project which highlights the unexpected beauty within the field of lubrication, friction and wear, celebrating the artistic side of scientific discovery. We invite all attendees to submit their most captivating tribology-related images for display at the conference. Posters—which include the image, description and submitter name—will be displayed in designated areas throughout the STLE Annual Meeting, offering attendees a unique perspective on the artistry behind tribology research. Show the artistic side of your industry research! For requirements and to enter your submission, visit bit.ly/3Cvqq9b.

On Monday evening, the popular Networking Reception is back with a new twist. For 2025, the event will take place in the exhibit hall. Attendees can connect with new and old friends while viewing the industry’s latest products, services and technologies. Many annual meeting attendees say they have saved thousands of dollars and solved complex lubricant-related problems by making a connection at STLE’s trade show.

A Career Pathways Panel, open to all annual meeting registrants, will take place Tuesday, May 20. This insightful panel discussion will explore the diverse career paths of professionals who have successfully transitioned in their careers. Invited panelists will share their personal experiences, challenges and achievements as they navigated these significant career shifts. This event aims to provide attendees with a deeper understanding of the motivations behind these transitions, the skills and mindset required and the impact these changes have had on their professional and personal lives. Whether you’re contemplating a move in your career or simply curious about the dynamic career landscapes, this panel will offer valuable perspectives and practical advice to guide you on your own career path.

Get some exercise while making a difference in the future of the tribology community by joining the STLE Fun Run/Walk! On Wednesday morning, May 21, this two-mile run/walk is a great way to connect with fellow attendees and help raise money for the STLE NextGen Fund. The entry fee is $25, and participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt. Sign up today when you register for the Annual Meeting and enjoy some fun while helping to support the next generation of tribologists and lubrication engineers.

These enriching special events are a special bonus on top of the cutting-edge technical sessions and professional development opportunities that make the STLE Annual Meeting the premier event in the tribology and lubrication industry. This year, the technical program features over 500 sessions and includes new tracks in aerospace, rheology and sustainability in motion. We’ve taken attendee feedback into consideration to make the program even more relevant to the technical areas that matter most to you. For the most up-to-date information about the technical program, visit www.stle.org/annualmeeting. 

You won’t want to miss out on these special programs during the 2025 STLE Annual Meeting & Exhibition. Register today! Through March 21, STLE members and non-members can take advantage of Early Bird rates. See you in Atlanta!

You can reach Certified Association Executive Rebecca Lintow at rlintow@stle.org.