I am pleased
to send warm greetings to the National Institute of Standards and
Technology as you launch your centennial year celebration. This
special gathering provides a great opportunity to celebrate your
accomplishments and NIST's 100 years of contribution to the growth
and development of the United States.
As part of the
United States Department of Commerce, the National Institute of
Standards and Technology remains the steward of the United States
measurement system and is known for its achievements in physical
measurements, standards developments, test methods, and basic scientific
and technical research. The work of this small agency is remarkably
broad and has touched the lives of countless Americans, including
business officials, homeowners, firefighters, medical and health-care
workers, scientists, engineers, and the military. NIST's scientific
and technical expertise is embodied in technologies as diverse as
factory robots, smoke detectors, integrated circuits, mammography
equipment, satellites, body armor, and computer encryption software.
As NIST begins
its second century, I am confident its work with industry, science,
and government will continue to build an advanced science and technology
infrastructure. In so doing, NIST will help to ensure future progress
and prosperity for our great Nation.
Best wishes
for a memorable celebration.
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