ASME COVID-19 Response
As you are aware, last week the World Health Organization declared the outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 a pandemic. This global health crisis is a unique challenge that affects every member of the ASME community. We would like to express our concern and support for all the members of this vital community: society members, volunteers, staff, families and all others who are affected by this crisis across the world.
In response, governments around the world are now instituting or calling for restrictions on travel, gatherings, and in-person meetings in an effort to limit and slow the spread of the virus and “flatten the curve.” ASME supports these efforts; the health and safety of the ASME community is our first priority.
To this end, ASME has been responding actively to the unique challenge of this moment in a variety of ways that are developing in real time. Just a few examples:
ASME is convening the Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing industry to address COVID-19. In collaboration with America Makes, FDA, NIH, and VHA, we are hosting discussions of the COVID-19 Task Force. These webinars will feature discussion on priority areas, part shortages, PPE equipment, medical devices and ventilators, access to validated designs, consolidated data repository, and supply chain challenges. Leading manufacturers will share their current initiatives and opportunities for collaboration.
The ASME Government Relations team is monitoring developments in Congress and U.S. federal agencies, tracking the impact of the recently enacted $2 trillion stimulus package, and discerning how public policy engagement can best support businesses in the ASME network. The team is also preparing to issue a white paper titled "The Hazards of Global Supply Chains," which will offer recommendations on strengthening the supply chain to better respond to crises such as this global pandemic. For more information on the GR team’s response, and to watch their most recent congressional briefing, visit the Government Relations home page.
Journal articles and proceedings relevant to the COVID crisis are available through ASME’s Digital Collection.
Mechanical Engineering magazine continues to publish COVID-focused content for the engineering community.
Engineering for Change offers articles on COVID-related resources and responses for underserved communities.
We are proud of the work all ASME community members have been doing in response to the uniquely challenging circumstances we now face. We extend heartfelt thanks to every member of this community for your understanding, flexibility and strength in these challenging days. We are confident that, when we address it together, no challenge is too great for us to overcome.
Please stay well and stay safe.
With very best wishes,
Richard Laudenat, ASME President
Thomas Costabile, ASME Executive Director/CEO
March 2020