This blog post was written by DougL. Edits provided by friends. AI was not used to write or edit it. Browser-based technology with generative AI and ChatGPT was used to fact check.
After reading Chip War by Chris Miller recently (which I highly recommend), past and present collided as I read the pages. Across time and administrations, despite prevailing economic, technological, and national security circumstances — the US government’s long-term investment in semiconductors made them an essential player in the industry.
Despite the private sector churning out new developments — especially in the areas of AI, quantum computing, applied materials and chips, the Biden Administration is looking to dabbling in supporting innovation as well.
The current administration has outlined several technology policy and industry support initiatives since taking office. These stand to support key industries we all find ourselves in, with programs like:
The American Jobs Plan that includes significant investments in technology and innovation
The American Rescue Plan includes provisions to support technology-related initiatives
This Semiconductor Supply Chain Initiative to address the global semiconductor shortage, a review of supply chain vulnerabilities and announced initiatives to boost domestic production, R&D, and workforce development in the semiconductor industry
R&D investments in artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, advanced materials, and clean energy; cybersecurity measures that includes increasing funding for cybersec research, promoting info sharing between the public and private sectors, and improving incident response capabilities
Clean energy initiatives with proposed investments in renewable energy, electric vehicle infrastructure, and energy efficiency technologies
AI and data initiatives including a commitment to responsible AI development, ethical considerations, and ensuring equitable access to the benefits of AI; promotion of data privacy, security, and interoperability
The Supply Chain Resilience Initiative that evaluates supply chain vulnerabilities emerging from the COVID Pandemic and strategies to enhance domestic production and reduce dependence on foreign raw material and component sources
While these initiatives were birthed by the Biden Administration, their implementation may involve legislation — but relevant to us, they will need to partner with industry and technology leaders who have the capital and know-how to dominate the space.
Here’s what I think: success will start with education. Here’s where the Biden Administration can make the most of these initiatives, with major implications for the future.
Set a goal for the US to attain Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) leadership by 2035 at the high school and college/university levels. Develop programs and fund grants to create the next wave of innovators.
Expand the vocational school system to include technology education for high school grads and adults by expanding and subsidizing leading community colleges.
Create a national institute to better educate legislators about technology.
I conclude with the most clearly articulated moonshot goal: “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win... ”
Bob - thanks for your comment. I totally agree with your additional 4th point about immigration reform.
I concur with your 3 points, especially increased focus on high tech vocational education. A fourth item to add would be a revision to our immigration system, allowing easier VISA access and green cards for those with advanced STEM degrees.