Since 1979, the SME Education Foundation has been one of the leading non-profits dedicated to the advancement of manufacturing education.

In September, the SME Education Foundation received a finalist award from Automation Alley for having the “Best Education Program of the Year.” The award honored the Foundation for its dedication to the advancement of grades K-16 manufacturing education – specifically for the Gateway Academy program and providing more then $29 million to youth programs, scholarships and awards.

Albert E. Wischmeyer Memorial Scholarship
History
In 2000, Mrs. Mildred Wischmeyer donated $75,000 to the SME Education Foundation to establish a new scholarship endowment, named The Albert E. Wischmeyer Memorial Scholarship Award.
Albert was a quiet, patient man, with a dry wit. He was always willing to share his knowledge of metalworking with colleagues, and his advice was often sought on difficult die-making jobs. Although getting metalworking jobs to run properly was sometimes frustrating, he enjoyed problem solving and would persevere until he could produce a finished product that met his customer's specifications. His honest work ethic, dedication to good workmanship, and knowledge of metals and their behaviors when worked ensured that his business never lacked for customers, and also provided him with a great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.
Criteria
A. Scholarship applicants must be graduating high school seniors or current full-time undergraduate students enrolled in a manufacturing engineering, manufacturing engineering technology or mechanical technology accredited degree program at a college or university in New York State.
B. Applicants must reside in Western New York State.
C. Applicants must possess an overall minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
D. The scholarship can be used only as credit toward books, fees, and tuition at a college or university in New York State.