Nanotechnology = Jobs
5. Jobs. Innovation is the key to strengthening our economy. Nanotech is a game-changer that gives the U.S. an edge in the knowledge-based economy, and the foundation for advanced manufacturing. Advanced materials, medical devices, electronics, and the aforementioned water, air and energy -- those are the drivers that will keep us a global economic leader.
6. Science. The American Chemistry Council (full disclosure: my company is a member) offers this encouraging assessment about your track record: "In our experience she has listened carefully to all stakeholders and based her decisions in sound science."Keep it up! Remember that nanotechnology has been a part of the earth's environment since the beginning of time. Nanoscale materials occur naturally -- from our own DNA to volcanic dust. As we develop the potential of nanotech, a common-sense approach built on millennia of history is a trustworthy guide.
7. Partnership. How else could you have served both Republican governor Mitt Romney and Democratic president Barack Obama, and received praise from both? I read over and over that partisans on all sides of issues praise your sense of balance and your willingness to listen to all viewpoints. I hope Stephen Harper, director of Environment and Energy Policy at Intel, got it right. He said, "When you go into a meeting with Gina, you know where she stands on the environment, but she's very pragmatic about the means to achieving an end. We think she's somebody the industry can work with on problem-solving."
President Obama said in his nomination announcement that you're going to "hit the ground running." That's good news -- because there's much to be done and many opportunities for making a difference. Rest assured that the nanotechnology community is ready to set the pace with you.
Scott E. Rickert is the Chief Executive Officer of Nanofilm Ltd.
