Aluminum alloysAluminum alloy have been employed extensively for structural applications owing to their high strength-to-weight ratio. However, these materials have limited stability at elevated temperatures. The incorporation of nano-scale particles in the Al matrix, termed metalMetals matrix nanocomposites (MMCs), is a promising approach to improved ambient and elevated temperature mechanical propertiesMechanical properties, while still retaining the lightweightLightweight benefits of Al. In situ processingProcessing methods, where particles are created directly in the melt via direct reaction, have been demonstrated to exhibit improved particle/matrix interface stability and easier incorporation within the matrix. However, the ability to reliably control critical mechanical propertyMechanical properties-dependent particle characteristics (i.e., particle size, volume fraction, and dispersion) remains a barrier to large-scale processingProcessing. This paper presents an overview of the results from the research of the team at the University of Michigan working with our collaborators. The challenges and opportunities for scaling up a number of methods for preparing in situ aluminumAluminum-TiC MMCs are described. In addition, the underlying mechanisms for TiC and Al3Ti intermetallicIntermetallic formation have been determined which can facilitate optimization of the in situ processes. It was also found that applying low electrical currents during solidificationSolidification results in the refinement of the microstructureMicrostructure. The results offer general guidelines for the rationalTitanium synthesis and processingProcessing of submicron Al-MMCs.