Hiroki Sone wins 2026 Distinguished Service Award

Associate Geological Professor Hiroki Sone has been awarded the 2026 Distinguished Service Award (Senior Level) from the American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA) in recognition of his contributions to the organization. Sone’s participation in symposium committees and seven-year involvement in organizing and delivering the educational workshop “Fundamentals of Experimental Rock Mechanics” have earned him this recognition. 

Launched in 2018, the workshop serves as an educational hub, a space where both newcomers and experts may exchange knowledge and insight into the field of experimental rock mechanics. Rock mechanics apparatuses are less standardized than more common analytical equipment, so there is a gap in the foundational knowledge of how to operate and preserve these tools. Sone is bridging the gap by providing students with a chance to receive training, while also creating a space to share expertise and experience within the field. Over the years, the total number of participants has reached over 200 attendees, with around half being students.

Hiroki shares that one of his favorite parts of the workshop is the impact it has on participants. Receiving student feedback year by year is a huge motivator for Sone and the continuation of the workshop. The experience also offers valuable networking opportunities to connect with like-minded colleagues.

“Students appreciate how the tutorials cover the fundamental principles of how the experimental technology works, which is not taught anywhere else,” says Sone. “I hope it can continue to be a recurring workshop organized each year and potentially become a technical committee in ARMA.”