Alloys composed of very high melting point elements in equal or near-equal atomic ratios, called refractory medium/high entropy alloys, have tremendous potential for high-performance materials innovation due to their unique mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties, surpassing the traditional superalloys. Fabrication of parts with these alloys employing conventional methods presents significant challenges. Laser-based metal additive manufacturing (AM) process is a promising route to build complex parts made of refractory alloys and metal matrix composites with minimal processing steps and dependence on supply chain. This Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) project aims to achieve high melting-temperature medium entropy alloys with thermal stability, high strength-ductility balance, and high wear resistance by direct alloying the constituent elements with laser-based AM processes. This project has the potential to transform the fabrication of alloys for extreme environments and operating conditions. The advanced manufacturing education and research opportunities associated with this project will facilitate creating a pipeline to graduate education through experiential learning. The student traineeship will contribute to the steady growth of the nation’s trained workforce and leadership for next-generation manufacturing and bring prosperity in the region. The outreach efforts will spread awareness of science, engineering and technology education in students and the communi