New materials have been among the most significant achievements of every age and have been central to human growth, prosperity, security, and quality of life since the beginning of history. New materials always open the door to new technologies, whether in civil, chemical, construction, nuclear, aeronautical, agricultural, mechanical, biomedical, or electrical engineering.

Materials scientists and engineers continue to be at the forefront of these and many other areas of science, too. Materials science and engineering influence our lives each time we buy or use a new device, machine, or structure. The definition of the academic field of Materials Science & Engineering stems from a realization concerning every application of materials: it is the properties of the material that give it value. A material may be chosen for its strength, electrical properties, heat or corrosion resistance, or other reasons, but they all relate to properties.