Materials are the essential starting point for virtually any type of engineering or technological development, from the creation of new vehicles to the development of energy infrastructure. Without access to the right materials, it's nearly impossible to develop things like bridges, roads, and buildings. However, materials are also special in the sense that they occupy a unique position between the realms of science, technology, and engineering. While materials science is a field that requires enormous amounts of expertise and knowledge, materials can also provide a way for technicians and engineers to create things that aren't possible by other means. For instance, materials like composite resins, aluminum alloys, and carbon fiber can be combined in ways that were completely impossible until recently. By using the right combination of materials, engineers and technicians can create ultra-lightweight structures that can withstand incredible amounts of stress. This has made it possible to create everything from state-of-the-art aircraft to energy-efficient skyscrapers. Materials are also driving innovation in a multitude of other industries, from automotive to medical. In conclusion, materials are a special and essential part of our world. Without them, we'd be unable to create many of the amazing things we take for granted today. By unlocking the secrets of materials science, technicians and engineers are able to develop new structures, devices, and systems that wouldn’t be possible with any other materials.