Recognizing the vital role scientific research plays in developing cutting-edge aerospace and defense technologies, the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) joined more than 45 science, engineering and academic organizations in voicing support for Dr. Kelvin Droegemeier, who was recently nominated to be the Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP).
 
In a letter sent to Senator John Thune and Senator Bill Nelson earlier today, the organizations urged the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation to quickly confirm Dr. Droegemeier, noting “OSTP plays a critical role in not only being an advisor to the President, but also in coordinating the federal government’s crucial science functions.”
 
In advance of Dr. Droegemeier’s confirmation hearing later this week, AIA President and CEO Eric Fanning released the following statement:
 
“Basic science and technological research underpins everything the aerospace and defense industry does. That’s why we urge Congress to confirm Dr. Kelvin Droegemeier as soon as possible as the Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) – an office that has been without a director for more than 500 days. Following his confirmation, we look forward to working with Dr. Droegemeier to advance OSTP’s STEM education and workforce development efforts, and to advocate for the robust federal and civilian research and development investments that are critical to continued American technological innovation in defense, civil aviation, and space systems.”
 
For the full letter: http://www.aia-aerospace.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Science-Community-Support-for-Dr.-Droegemeier-082018.pdf