The Society’s role in these areas is based on several factors. Foremost is the inherent role of ASME, which is to help the global engineering community develop solutions to real world challenges confronting it. Founded in 1880 as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASME is a not-for-profit professional organization that enables collaboration, knowledge sharing and skills development across all engineering disciplines, while promoting the vital role of the engineer in society.

This role is based on the Society’s Mission and Vision, and the organization’s Core Values.

Mission: To serve our diverse global communities by advancing, disseminating and applying engineering knowledge for improving the quality of life; and communicating the excitement of engineering.

Vision: ASME will be the essential resource for mechanical engineers and other technical professionals throughout the world for solutions that benefit humankind.

In fulfilling its mission, ASME adheres to the following Core Values:

• Embrace integrity and ethical conduct
• Embrace diversity and respect the dignity and culture of all people
• Nurture and treasure the environment and our natural and man-made resources
• Facilitate the development, dissemination and application of engineering knowledge
• Promote the benefits of continuing education and of engineering education
• Respect and document engineering history while continually embracing change
• Promote the technical and societal contribution of engineers

The implementation of the Mission and Vision is far reaching. It includes the development of codes, standards and other publications, conferences, education, and professional development programs. These all provide a foundation for advancing technical knowledge and a safer world.

In identifying three ambitious areas of focus, the Board of Governors took a long-term perspective. ASME will continue its work in other areas, certainly, but it will do so while coalescing activities within the areas of ENERGY, GLOBAL IMPACT, and ENGINEERING WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.