FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, August 5, 1998
Contact: Jim Pinkelman
Tel.: 202-366-0660
FHWA 33-98

Federal Highway Administration, Engineers Announce
|Effort to Promote Engineering Skills, Careers

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) have agreed to a partnership aimed at fostering interest in engineering careers and improving the skills of transportation professionals.

"President Clinton is committed to education as one of the highest priorities," stated FHWA Administrator Kenneth R. Wykle. "This public-private partnership focuses on lifelong learning, and is a powerful tool to build the range of professional abilities needed to address 21st century transportation systems, continuing to help America have the best transportation system in the world."

The FHWA/NSPE partnership will:

• Coordinate efforts with young people to stimulate their interest in math and science skills and their application to transportation issues and careers. The joint efforts will be designed to increase participation in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Garrett A. Morgan Technology and Transportation Futures Program, Universities and Grants Programs, MATHCOUNTS, and other student-centered programs;
• Develop and implement a coordinated strategy for participation in and joint sponsorship of National Transportation Week and National Engineers Week;
• Develop and implement a coordinated strategy for joint training activities through the FHWA’s National Highway Institute to improve the skills of professionals and others throughout transportation; and
• Participate as exhibitors, co-sponsors, and presenters at conferences sponsored by FHWA and NSPE to promote understanding of transportation and engineering needs.

The partnership agreement follows the FHWA’s strategic goals for safety, mobility, productivity, human and natural environment, and national security, and the NSPE’s mission to promote the ethical, competent and licensed practice of engineering.

The FHWA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has 3,600 employees, a field office in every state, and an annual budget of more than $21 billion.

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Briefing Room