Krzysztof Stopka, a lead research engineer at Purdue University’s School of Aeronautics and Astronautics, has been honored with the “Outstanding Pole in Chicago” award, in the Science category, for his contributions to science and engineering. The award was presented during a ceremonial gala held August 21, 2025, at the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago.

Stopka, who joined Purdue in 2021 as a postdoctoral research assistant, specializes in mechanical and materials engineering, with a focus on additive manufacturing, fatigue and fracture mechanics, and crystal plasticity modeling. His research is widely applied in modern industry and contributes to global scientific advancement in metals and alloys processing.

The “Outstanding Pole” competition, now in its 14th year in Chicago, is organized by the Polish Promotional Emblem Foundation. It aims to highlight the achievements of Polish nationals abroad who positively represent Poland through their professional excellence and community engagement. Awards are given in categories including culture, sport, business, science, personality, and Young Pole.

“The Polish diaspora in the United States is one of the most active and creative in the world,” said Krzysztof Przyby, president of the Foundation. “The winners of this competition show that Polishness is an inspiration and a source of strength, and their achievements are the best showcase for our country.”