Although the area of composites has advanced significantly over the past three decades, there is still a lack of understanding as to the coupling between materials and processing variables, especially as related to the use of resin systems in emerging processes such as resin transfer molding (RTM). As materials are tailored through the use of additives to resin systems, intricate fiber architectures, and the use of specific processing parameters, the need for a thorough understanding of the effect of minor variations in the materials system and the ultimate need for process control techniques increases. The current investigation is aimed at developing an understanding of variation in performance in three similar vinyl ester resin based composite systems as a function of mold release agent concentration, presence of a wetting/dispersion agent, and preform tool temperature. It is seen that the concentration of mold release agent has a significant influence on performance, which can be correlated with results of dynamic mechanical analysis tests. The importance of using statistically based studies to determine optimum settings and overall variation in performance is emphasized. This approach is favored over the use of ann[sgrave]approach, which gives the user a means of controlling quality based on postproduction control rather than through the selection of settings that are insensitive to variation in the quality of incoming material process changes. The achievement of quality through control of material and process variables is important not only for the cost-efficient production of composite parts but also for the fabrication of large parts such as would be needed for civil infrastructure applications (bridge decks, piers, etc.), where postproduction rejection would result in significant losses.