Sharing the love for tribology

We’re sharing the heart of STLE with fun merchandise, shared history and opportunities to connect with fellow tribology lovers. 

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In February, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day, we often reflect on the people, passions and connections that bring us joy. At STLE, when we say “I love tribology,” it includes not only the science that keeps the world in motion, but also the community we all share. Whether it’s on social media, in person at one of STLE’s events or right here in the pages of TLT, there are many ways to show your love for tribology—and to show it off to the world.

In you are active on LinkedIn, I’m sure you’ve seen an industry peer wearing their “I Heart Tribology” shirt. Now you can get your own, exclusively in the STLE merchandise store at https://stle.myspreadshop.com. Wearing one while traveling for work is a great way to show your STLE pride and support the tribology community wherever you go. The best part might be getting asked, “What is tribology?” There’s no better way to spread the word about the science of friction, lubrication and wear, and how it is all around us. Be sure to share photos on social media with the #TribologyLove hashtag whenever you wear your STLE swag!

Another fun way to treat yourself this Valentine’s Day is with a copy of “Love Letters to the Lubrication Engineers,” a compilation of Dr. Shirley E. Schwartz’s popular column from TLT’s predecessor Lubrication Engineering. You can read more about Shirley’s impressive contributions to the industry in last month’s TLT.¹ This industry-inspired collection makes a perfect Valentine’s Day gift for colleagues or anyone who appreciates the art and science of lubrication. While supplies last, you can get your own copy of the book for just the cost of shipping. Visit www.stle.org/loveletters for more information and to order.

In this issue of TLT, we also are reinforcing our commitment to the science of tribology with a new article series, Tribology Fundamentals. It will alternate with the popular Lubrication Fundamentals series to provide essential knowledge to those early in their careers, reinforce the foundational skills of those who are more experienced and provide all of us with an opportunity to explain our industry and its many applications to the world. I invite you to share your passion for tribology and lubrication by sending an article to a new colleague, linking one on social media or commenting with your own insights when STLE shares new content across its many platforms. 

In honor of Valentine’s Day, let’s share our passion for tribology and lubrication engineering as we focus on connection and community. I look forward to seeing how you share your “I Heart Tribology” spirit this month and all through 2026. Don’t forget to tag your photos with #STLEConnect on social media!  
You can reach Certified Association Executive Rebecca Lintow at rlintow@stle.org.