When national leaders gathered on Capitol Hill on July 23rd to call for strong federal investment in science and technology, Purdue Polytechnic was there to represent the future of American innovation.
Nathan Hartman, Dauch Family Professor of Advanced Manufacturing and associate head for research and engagement in the School of Engineering Technology (SoET) was invited to speak at a congressional briefing by the Science and Technology Action Committee (STAC). This briefing brings together members of congress, academic leaders, and industry leaders who are advocating for congressional support for robust, federally funded research and development.
Hartman’s remarks made clear the direct correlation of science and technology education to the practical world of manufacturing innovation; his work with digital manufacturing and the Indiana Manufacturing Competitiveness Center (IN-MaC) and the Digital Enterprise Center makes him a prominent leader in these national conversations.
"Science and technology have never existed in a vacuum—they are the functional systems that drive the realities that keep our manufacturing sector competitive and safe. I think it is crucial that Federal policy makes a commitment to support research that will lead to an industry-ready solution and workforce development," Hartman said at the event.
For Purdue Polytechnic and SoET, the event confirmed the national significance of their work. With the land-grant mission that is rooted in science, innovation, and public service, SoET has been doing hands-on education and industry partnerships for a long time. Faculty are involved in applied research that improves manufacturing safety, productivity, and efficiency, and they are also preparing students for industry internships and jobs immediately upon graduation.
“There was clear interest from attendees about how Purdue Polytechnic prepares its students to be industry-ready from day one,” said Lisa Arafune, SoET’s industry and government engagement expert, who also attended the event. “It speaks volumes about our faculty’s impact and the strength of our connections with industry.”
