Klobuchar Calls for a Greater Focus on Science and Technology Education

Press Release

Klobuchar Calls for a Greater Focus on Science and Technology Education

At a Senate Commerce Committee hearing today, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar called for a greater national emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. As the Chairman of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Competitiveness, Innovation and Export Promotion, Klobuchar stressed the importance that STEM education in developing a science and engineering workforce that can succeed in the global economy.

"The global economy is becoming increasingly competitive, and we need to make sure that America never comes in second place," Klobuchar said. "By investing in STEM education, we can drive both technological innovation and economic growth. Innovation is what made this country great, and innovation will lead us through these tough economic times."

Although the Unites States continues to lead the world in science and engineering, other countries are closing the gap by dramatically increasing their own investments in science and engineering research, infrastructure, business investment, and education, according to a 2010 National Science Board report.

Klobuchar touted the Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science (COMPETES) Act for its potential to create jobs and promote economic growth. Klobuchar is a cosponsor of the America COMPETES Act of 2007.

Klobuchar is also a cosponsor of the Promote Nanotechnology in Schools Act, which seeks to help community colleges, universities, and high schools purchase the advanced equipment they need to educate and train the next generation of scientists and engineers in the nanotechnology industry.

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