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13 April 2016
OSA Members Return to Capitol Hill to Emphasize Importance of Sustained U.S. Federal Investments in Science, Engineering and Technology
13 April 2016
OSA Members Return to Capitol Hill to Emphasize Importance of Sustained U.S. Federal Investments in Science, Engineering and Technology
WASHINGTON – Members of The Optical Society (OSA) joined colleagues from the National Photonics Initiative (NPI) and more than 300 scientists, engineers and graduate students on Capitol Hill today as part of the annual Congressional Visits Day (CVD), sponsored by the Science-Engineering-Technology Working Group. These conversations with lawmakers and their staff illustrate how science policy and federal investments in research and development (R&D) affect innovation, the economy, jobs and U.S. competitiveness.“Scientific discovery and the science of light touch the lives of all Americans – from smart phones and cameras, to laser surgery and sensors for autonomous cars, security and other applications,” said Elizabeth Rogan, CEO, The Optical Society. “Our members will share their stories about the challenges and opportunities for government funding of optics and photonics technologies and explain how the science of light is improving all areas of our economy, including energy, communications, medicine, manufacturing and national security.”
Ed White, NPI Steering Committee member, added: “As a member of the NPI, I am pleased to join my colleagues today from around the country to discuss the importance of government investments in education, science, engineering and technology to advance national security, prosperity and U.S. leadership in innovation. Sustained and enhanced spending in R&D will reduce the risk of the U.S. falling behind global competitors.”
The meetings with lawmakers and staff included support for strong R&D funding in the fiscal year 2017 appropriations bills and technology programs at agencies such as the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, the Department of Defense, and President Obama’s BRAIN initiative. The NPI, which is a collaborative alliance among industry, academia and government seeking to raise awareness of photonics, also focused on the importance of providing funding for the Department of Commerce’s National Network for Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI) and the need for a trained workforce in optics and photonics and proposed possible legislative vehicles. Members shared personal anecdotes, current research projects, and drew attention to the relationship between federal R&D funding and job creation at their local institutions.
About The Optical Society
Founded in 1916, The Optical Society (OSA) is the leading professional organization for scientists, engineers, students and entrepreneurs who fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate achievements in the science of light. Through world-renowned publications, meetings and membership initiatives, OSA provides quality research, inspired interactions and dedicated resources for its extensive global network of optics and photonics experts. For more information, visit osa.org/100.
About Congressional Visits Day
The CVD is a two-day annual event that brings scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, and technology executives to Washington to raise visibility and support for science, engineering, and technology. Uniquely multi-sector and multi-disciplinary, the CVD is coordinated by coalitions of companies, professional societies and educational institutions and it is open to all who believe that science and technology comprise the cornerstone of our Nation's future.
Media Contacts:
mediarelations@osa.org