The U.S. National Science Foundation is an independent federal agency that supports science and engineering in all 50 states and U.S. territories. NSF was established in 1950 by Congress to promote the progress of science, advance the national health, prosperity and welfare, and secure the national defense.
This grant initiative focuses on fostering experiential learning opportunities in emerging technology fields such as advanced manufacturing, advanced wireless, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum information science, semiconductors, and microelectronics. The aim is to enhance access to and interest in career pathways within these areas, especially for individuals from diverse professional and educational backgrounds. By supporting the development of a diverse STEM workforce, the grant addresses large-scale societal challenges like climate change and clean energy, facilitating the translation of scientific discoveries into impactful solutions. It acknowledges the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of emerging technologies, emphasizing the importance of "learning-by-doing" experiences to enter and advance in these careers. The initiative is designed to prepare a workforce capable of addressing unforeseen challenges related to security, safety, and privacy in technology, thereby contributing to innovation and the sustainable development of new technologies.