By Rebecca A. Bickham, Editor-in-Chief of Materials Performance (MP) magazine

Corrosion remains one of the largest cost drivers in the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), estimated at billions annually. Yet, innovations are often siloed within individual programs or services.

As part of the 2026 AMPP Annual Conference + Expo in Houston, the “DoD Case Studies: Military Infrastructure and Weapon Systems” forum will be held on Monday, March 16, from 8:00 to 11:30 a.m. local time in room 360 DE. Co-chairs are Cortney Chalifoux, Patrick Cassidy, and Eric Shoyer.

According to the event guide, this session will feature a range DoD case studies within these niche areas. With a focus on measurable performance outcomes, the forum brings together aircraft, shipbuilding, infrastructure, and research communities under one unified discussion.

Attendees will explore innovations in coating selection, application, and quality control management to extend service life in demanding environments. Presentations will highlight advanced mitigation strategies and emerging technologies to improve corrosion control, while experts will share insights supporting long-term sustainment and mission readiness of defense assets.

This session is perfect for DoD corrosion program managers; aerospace and defense engineers and researchers; coatings and materials engineers; shipbuilding and ship repair professionals; asset integrity and sustainment managers; and specification writers, inspection companies, coating contractors, and quality managers.

The objective of the event, according to AMPP, is to deliver real-world validation and not just theoretical concepts. Each presentation will demonstrate a measurable impact on readiness, cost reduction, compliance, or environmental safety.

The end goal is to equip attendees with actionable tools and strategies that can be adapted across defense infrastructure and weapon systems.

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