Washington, March 6: Indian-American engineering scholar Arvind Raman, nominated to lead the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), urged U.S. senators to focus on accelerating American innovation and establishing global technical standards. According to Raman, the U.S. must enhance its innovation to compete with China in emerging technologies.
During his testimony before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Raman shared his journey from India to the U.S. as an example of the opportunities available in the country. “I first came to the U.S. 35 years ago to study engineering at Purdue University, with just a few dollars in my pocket,” he recalled.
He reminisced about waiting for his first paycheck as a research assistant, relying on university loans for students without credit history and local goodwill stores to get by during those early days.
Raman highlighted his current role as the head of engineering at Purdue University, where he has served as a faculty member for over two decades and now leads one of the largest engineering colleges in the U.S.
Nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as the Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and NIST Director, Raman emphasized the agency’s crucial role in strengthening U.S. industrial and technological leadership. “NIST has been vital in advancing American industrial competitiveness,” he stated. For over a century, the institute has ensured that American industries operate on reliable standards that facilitate innovation and global competitiveness.
“If confirmed as NIST’s leader, I look forward to collaborating with all of you to write the next chapter for NIST, which involves accelerating technological innovation through partnerships with industry, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders,” Raman said.
He also stressed the importance of international technical standards, stating that they help establish the rules governing global commerce. “When the U.S. leads in setting global tech standards, it means that the rules governing international commerce are truly based on American values, free markets, private sector innovation, privacy, and freedom of speech,” he added.
Several senators inquired about NIST’s programs, including the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, which supports small and medium-sized manufacturers across the U.S. Raman reiterated that he is not yet in the position to make policy decisions and will need to review the details of various programs. However, he assured senators that he would adhere to congressional directives.
“If confirmed as NIST Director, I will follow the law. I am excited to help NIST maximize innovation across the entire AI tech stack to fulfill the President’s AI Action Plan,” he stated. He also pledged to work with Congress to strengthen U.S. leadership in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing.
Raman emphasized that NIST should collaborate with industry and international partners to ensure that American technology shapes global standards.
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K.K./A.S.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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