The M. Eugene Merchant Manufacturing Medal of ASME/SME is awarded to an individual who has had significant influence and responsibility for improving the productivity and efficiency (either by research or by implementation of research) of the manufacturing operation(s). This award was established in 1986 in honor of M. Eugene Merchant.
Michael F. Molnar, Director of NIST Office of Advanced Manufacturing (OAM) and Advanced Manufacturing National Program Office (AMNPO) is recognized by American Society of Mechanical Engineers and SME with the award of their joint M. Eugene Merchant Manufacturing Medal for his longtime and outstanding contributions to manufacturing research and its implementation in industry.
Additionally, his service related to the federal government's advanced manufacturing efforts are being recognized, in particular his critical role in formulating and organizing Manufacturing USA – the National Network for Manufacturing Innovation.