Developing the Workforce of the Future: How the National Nanotechnology Initiative Has Supported Nanoscale Science and Engineering Education in the United States

Abstract

The National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) has supported outreach, education, and workforce development activities as part of its primary goals for the past 20 years. Efforts by NNI-participating agencies and the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office (NNCO) have helped to create a vibrant, interdisciplinary nanotechnology research community and scores of educational resources. Highlights of some of the U.S. federal government programs that have been used to expand the research capacity, create and disseminate educational resources, and advance training and workforce development programs in the areas of nanoscale science and engineering are provided. Although some agencies have established nanotechnology-focused programs, in many cases, nanotechnology topics competed successfully in broader calls. As the scientific boundaries of nanotechnology expand and new discoveries are made, education, outreach, and workforce development activities need to reflect these advancements to prepare the workforce of the future.