The Visiting Committee on Advanced Technology (VCAT) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has sent its 2012 annual report to Congress.
The committee report supports NIST's ongoing and planned work in advanced manufacturing and recognizes that NIST's measurement science mission, its unique and longstanding relationship with industry, and its broad portfolio of programs make it a critical element of the Administration's efforts to strengthen manufacturing in America.
The report addresses NIST's role in support of the Public Safety Broadband Network and recognizes the need for interoperability at all levels of public safety operation. It also provides recommendations related to the proposed NIST Centers of Excellence, as well as the newly established National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence. The report endorses NIST's new strategic planning process and emphasizes the organization's progress in developing a positive safety culture.
The VCAT was established by Congress in 1988 to review and make recommendations on NIST's policies, organization, budget and programs to support the agency in its mission to promote and support U.S. technological innovation and industrial competitiveness. For the full text of the VCAT 2012 annual report, see www.nist.gov/director/vcat/upload/2012-VCAT-Annual-Report.pdf.
The next NIST VCAT meeting will be held June 11-12, 2013, in Gaithersburg, Md. VCAT meetings are open to the public. For more information, see www.nist.gov/director/vcat/.
