The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is advancing its strategy for critical and emerging technology standards through a Request for Information (RFI) on existing awards and recognition programs. The initiative aligns with the U.S. Government National Standards Strategy for Critical and Emerging Technology (USG NSSCET), which aims to bolster the country’s leadership in standards development, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing.
Released on October 8, the RFI invites feedback from a broad range of stakeholders, including industry leaders, academic institutions, and civil society organizations. The feedback will inform the USG NSSCET Implementation Roadmap, which outlines both immediate and long-term actions to strengthen U.S. participation in international standards development. The RFI is a continuation of efforts to maintain open communication with the standards community and support a private sector-led approach to global standards, emphasizing transparency, openness, and consensus-based decision-making.
One of the primary goals of the RFI is to explore ways to leverage existing awards and recognition programs to encourage greater involvement in standards activities. This focus addresses a key theme identified during stakeholder engagement, which highlighted the need for recognizing the contributions of early and mid-career professionals in standards development. By acknowledging these professionals’ efforts, NIST aims to cultivate a robust pipeline of talent that can drive innovation and uphold U.S. standards leadership in emerging technologies.
NIST also seeks input on how to enhance education and outreach for business and technology decision-makers. The aim is to increase awareness of the importance of engaging in standards development, helping industry leaders understand when and how to participate effectively. This educational effort is crucial for ensuring that U.S. businesses can compete globally by contributing to the development of international standards that shape critical and emerging technologies.
The RFI is part of NIST’s broader mission to reinforce the United States’ unique standards system, which is characterized by a decentralized, voluntary, and industry-led approach. Unlike other countries where governments may play a more centralized role, the U.S. standards system is driven by collaboration between the private sector and public agencies. This model has been instrumental in fostering innovation and maintaining the relevance of standards across diverse sectors.
Released in July 2024, the USG NSSCET Implementation Roadmap serves as a guide for reinforcing this model while adapting to new challenges and opportunities presented by critical and emerging technologies. It builds on previous efforts, including the American National Standards Institute’s (ANSI) United States Standards Strategy (USSS) and other private sector initiatives.
NIST’s focus on critical and emerging technologies reflects national priorities that have become increasingly urgent. The U.S. Government is prioritizing areas like AI, quantum computing, and advanced materials, recognizing their strategic importance to economic growth and national security. The Implementation Roadmap’s actions aim to ensure that the U.S. remains at the forefront of innovation in these fields while upholding values such as transparency and fairness in global standards development.
The RFI process is open for public comment until December 9, 2024, allowing stakeholders to contribute their perspectives on enhancing standards participation and workforce development. Interested parties can submit their comments through the Federal eRulemaking Portal, ensuring that a diverse array of voices is heard in shaping the next phase of the USG NSSCET.
By engaging a wide range of stakeholders and focusing on recognition, education, and collaboration, NIST aims to build a more inclusive and resilient standards ecosystem. This approach is designed to support not only U.S. competitiveness but also the global adoption of technologies that are safe, secure, and aligned with international norms. The outcomes of the RFI will help shape the future of standards development in the United States, ensuring that the nation continues to lead in setting the rules for critical and emerging technologies on the global stage.
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