Celebrating Professor Stephen Akinlabi
The scientific and engineering communities continue to acknowledge the research contributions of Professor Stephen Akinlabi, whose work in laser-based manufacturing, materials processing, and sustainable engineering is influencing the future direction of industrial production. His approaches to manufacturing have contributed to academic research, industrial practice, and the development of sustainable technologies. Before stepping into the classroom, […]
The scientific and engineering communities continue to acknowledge the research contributions of Professor Stephen Akinlabi, whose work in laser-based manufacturing, materials processing, and sustainable engineering is influencing the future direction of industrial production. His approaches to manufacturing have contributed to academic research, industrial practice, and the development of sustainable technologies. Before stepping into the classroom, he spent over a decade engineering solutions in the oil and gas industry. Now, as part of the Adams State/CSU Mechanical Engineering Partnership Program, he guides students through the world of materials and advanced manufacturing — from laser-based additive technology to modern welding systems.
Professor Akinlabi’s research covers laser beam forming (LBF), laser-metal deposition, friction stir welding, and other advanced manufacturing processes. His 2017 study on “Laser Beam Forming: A Sustainable Manufacturing Process” showed how LBF can reduce tooling requirements, minimise waste, and improve material properties. In one of his studies, his team found that processing Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy sheets at 1000 W using LBF reduced grain size to about 8 µm and produced traces of martensite, resulting in increased hardness and strength compared to the original material. Similarly, his research on the sand-blasting and forming of mild steel demonstrated that combining laser forming with surface preparation improved ultimate tensile strength (UTS). Throughout his work, Akinlabi has focused on sustainability — reducing mechanical tooling, minimising waste, and incorporating environmentally conscious principles into manufacturing. He is not just teaching — he is innovating and mentoring the next generation of engineers with hands-on insights rooted in real-world industry knowledge.
Industry and academic publications have referenced his work. According to Engineering Today (South Africa), “Professor Akinlabi is setting a benchmark for how manufacturing processes can align with sustainability and advanced materials performance.” Manufacturing Africa magazine reported, “His laser-forming techniques present potential changes in how aerospace, automotive, and defence sectors shape metallic components — fewer dies, less waste, more flexibility.” These reviews suggest that his research contributes to ongoing advances related to Industry 4.0 and sustainable manufacturing, knowledge he now actively translates into applied learning experiences for students in his engineering program. Whether it is laser welding or renewable energy systems, he brings global experience into every lab and lecture.
Independent commentaries have also discussed his contributions. Engineering Today wrote, “Professor Akinlabi’s laser-based forming research offers a future where metal shaping does not rely solely on heavy presses and fixed tooling. The effects on cost, waste, and agility could be significant.” Manufacturing Africa stated, “The implications of Akinlabi’s research for sectors like aerospace and automotive include lighter, stronger parts, fewer manufacturing steps, and potential paths to greener production.” Materials & Manufacturing Review (UK) commented, “His work combines metallurgical insight with practical process development — connecting laboratory research with industrial application.” Such insights now support his role in shaping future engineers who will drive manufacturing transformation.
Going forward, Professor Akinlabi is advancing the next phase of his work, expanding additive manufacturing and surface-engineering methods to support low-carbon manufacturing across Africa and internationally. His stated goal is to promote “smart materials, smart processes, and smart sustainability,” aligning manufacturing development with environmental and technological objectives, while also empowering students to innovate and contribute to global engineering solutions.
Professor Stephen Akinlabi is known for his work in advanced manufacturing and materials engineering. He has published widely in peer-reviewed journals and holds collaborative appointments with institutions in Africa, the UK, and the USA. His expertise includes manufacturing processes, surface engineering, laser-metal deposition, and sustainable system design, and today he plays a pivotal educational role in the Adams State/CSU Mechanical Engineering Partnership Program — shaping future engineers through innovation, mentorship, and applied advanced manufacturing knowledge.