These proceedings from the 2002 TMS Annual Meeting address the scientific issues related to surface engineering phenomenon in synthesis, characterization, and application for all materials. This collection of papers provides a multidisciplinary discussion on surface–related phenomena by which materials performance may be enhanced through engineered interfaces and surface modification technologies. Applied experimental and theoretical aspects that highlight, develop, and utilize approaches to understand and improve surface phenomena are also included. A collection of papers from the 2002 TMS Annual Meeting and Exhibition held in Seattle, Washington, February 17–21, 2002.