Deputy Secretary's Speech

Remarks by Deputy Commerce Secretary David A. Sampson
National Medal of Technology and National Medal of Science Dinner
Washington, D.C.

Thank you. I'm delighted to join you on behalf of Secretary Gutierrez. He wanted to be here tonight, but last-minute changes in his schedule prevented him from coming.

He asked me to tell you how committed he is personally to advancing American scientific research and innovation. It was a major priority for him in business, and it is a major priority for him as the leader of one of the government's top R&D agencies.

America's success as a nation and a global economic leader is in no small measure due to our ability to innovate and develop new technologies. This is what makes us the most competitive nation on earth, and it is what will keep us competitive in the years ahead, provided we make the right choices.

Today we lead the global economy in research and development. Our world class institutions continue to prepare the best and brightest minds. Our entrepreneurs are pushing new boundaries. And our business environment welcomes capital and rewards risk-taking.

President Bush is absolutely committed to building on this successful foundation. He understands that our future depends on keeping America the best place in the world to invest and to do R&D. And the President is calling on the nation--and on each of you here tonight--to renew our commitment to a proud tradition of innovation.

A few days ago he called on Congress to approve his new American Competitiveness Initiative. This is a bold plan that takes the long-term view. It's not a flash in the pan. You don't get results unless you know where you want to be 5, 10, or 20 years down the road, and are willing to commit the resources to get there.

The President's competitiveness initiative would:

• Double basic research over the next ten years in the physical sciences
• Make the R&D tax credit permanent
• Strengthen K-12 math and science education
• Reform our workforce training system, and
• Reform our immigration laws to draw in the best and brightest minds from around the world to work beside our own best scientific minds

At the Commerce Department, our National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) will expand research in the physical sciences to benefit our national technology infrastructure. We're seeking funding for more work in leading technologies, including hydrogen energy, nanotechnology, and quantum information science. NIST research already enhances a wide range of products: from the storage devices in MP3 players to protective body armor to diagnostic screening for cancer patients. Just imagine how NIST will be able to contribute in the years ahead with this new funding.

One final thought: All of you are part of a culture that makes America's economy stronger and our country the envy of the world. And I hope you never forget that, especially our young people.

We know that America has to remain on the cutting edge. Your work keeps us sharp, out front, and ahead of the rest. Because of your accomplishments, we will continue to lead the world in new technologies, new cures and new industries--all of which help create jobs, build wealth and raise the quality of life for all our citizens. But one of the most lasting and important roles that the laureates we are honoring tonight can play is to inspire the generation coming up.

Your achievements aren't just about today; and not just about this moment in time. They're about the future. Your inventions and innovations will be the launching pad for the next wave of new ideas and new products, whatever they may be. And our young people need your time, your encouragement, and your mentoring to help them face the challenges that are in store for them.

Thank you for inspiring tomorrow's scientists, thinkers, entrepreneurs, and technological-explorers. Congratulations to all our winners this year. Enjoy the rest of your evening.

Thank you very much.