Presenter: Norman Augustine and Neal Lane
Overview
Scientific and technological advances are fundamental to the prosperity, health, and security of America. Innovation and rapid application of new technologies emerge from investments in research and development (R&D), and rely on cooperation among universities, federal and state governments, and industry. Unfortunately, America’s total investment in R&D as a fraction of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has remained stagnant at 2.4–2.7% for nearly half a century. Meanwhile, other nations have accelerated their R&D investments. Because of America’s tepid response to rising competition from abroad, the United States has fallen to tenth place among leading nations in R&D investment as a fraction of GDP. This rapid drop in R&D global ranking reflects government policy-makers, corporate boards, and CEOs focusing on near-term issues at the expense of longer-term, potentially existential issues. This does not bode well for the future of our country in a world where others, particularly China, are committed to, and investing in, long-term strategies for success. Improving America’s global competitiveness will require a stronger partnership and a greater focus on long-term planning in scientific and engineering research. The authors of the new report, “The Perils of Complacency: America at a Tipping Point in Science and Engineering,” describe actions necessary to reverse this steady decline in U.S technological leadership.
About The Presenter
Norman Augustine, an IEEE Life Fellow, is retired Lockheed Martin Corp. Chairman and CEO. He also served as Under Secretary of the Army, United States Human Space Flight Plans Review Committee chairman, American Red Cross chairman, co-author of Rising Above the Gathering Storm, and numerous other roles.
Neal Lane is Senior Fellow in S&T Policy at the Baker Institute for Public Policy, and Professor Emeritus of Physics and Astronomy at Rice Univ. Earlier, he served as University of Colorado at Colorado Springs chancellor, Rice University provost, NSF Director, and Science Advisor to the President and OSTP Director.
Earn PDH Credits
U.S. IEEE members who have participated in an IEEE-USA Webinar can earn professional development hours (PDHs) from IEEE’s Educational Activities Department by clicking here to request a certificate.*
*Please allow 7-10 days to receive a certificate.
