The J.H. "Jud" Hall Composites Manufacturing Award honors the late Judge H. Hall (1931-85) for his dedication to making the former Composites Manufacturing Association of SME (CMA/SME) an established group within the composites manufacturing industry, and for his contributions to the development of composites technology. Hall was issued U.S. Patent 3962394 — "Method for molding fiber reinforced composite tube" in June 1976. Previously, he was a member of the technical staff, TRW Inc., Redondo Beach, California, and chair of the former CMA/SME.

This internationally eligible award is presented annually to an individual who has contributed to the composites manufacturing or tooling technology through leadership, technical developments, patents or educational activities. It recognizes excellence in the development or improvement of processes, tooling and applications, as well as achievements in composites research, education and technology transfer. The J.H. "Jud" Hall Composites Manufacturing Award celebrates innovation in solving issues related to production and applications development, and acknowledges significant contributions that reduce costs and waste streams, and improves quality and efficiency.

Submit Your Nomination

Deadline: February 3, 2025 (11:59 PM EST) 

Evaluation Period: February 4 through February 16, 2025
Winners Notified: Week of February 17, 2025

Application Process & Rules

• Individuals nominating an individual for this award will complete and submit their nominations online during the nomination period. All forms must be submitted electronically. 
• The winning individual must:

• Be present at the ceremony to accept the award during SME's annual AeroDef Manufacturing event.
• Consent to full media release to SME, which will allow SME to announce recipient along with notable references regarding the criteria that resulted in their selection as the winner.  

Questions? Contact awards@sme.org or check out our Frequently Asked Questions page for additional information.

2023 Award Winner

Michael "Mick" Maher

Michael Maher, President & Co-Founder, Maher & Associates LLC legacy includes pioneering new adhesive bonding techniques for iconic aircraft such as the B-1, DC-10, and GE engine thrust reversers. Additionally, he has spearheaded the application of resin film infusion on submarine acoustic baffles, revolutionized armor manufacturing for tanks and soldiers, and introduced cutting-edge process control methods for bonded composite structures crucial to Air Force national security assets. Notably, he has also championed novel manufacturing approaches for orthotics, benefiting wounded warriors. Beyond these achievements, his dedication to unconventional composite design, particularly in the realm of short-fiber composites, has propelled the continual evolution of composite materials science. His technical prowess is evident in advanced testing and manufacturing methodologies, as well as innovative composite material solutions.

Submit Your Nomination