The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) announced that it has awarded $15 million over a five year period to ASTM International, a global standards organization, to establish a Standardization Center of Excellence. This center will play a key role in bolstering U.S. engagement in international standardization efforts for critical and emerging technologies (CETs), including artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology, and biotechnology.
The new center will act as a bridge between industry, academia, and government to promote the development of international standards in rapidly evolving technological fields. According to NIST Associate Director for Laboratory Programs, Charles Romine, “Broad U.S. participation in the international standards process is vital to ensuring global market access for our products and services.” Romine emphasized that the collaboration would ensure that these standards are based on sound science, positioning the U.S. as a global leader in these cutting-edge sectors.
The center, which is the first of its kind, represents a public-private partnership between ASTM International and several key organizations in the standards development ecosystem. Partners in the project include the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and UL Standards and Engagement, among others. Together, these groups bring a wealth of experience in developing global standards, advancing workforce development, and optimizing standards for emerging technologies.
One of the core goals of the center is to support U.S. engagement in international standards that will shape the future of critical and emerging technologies. The center’s efforts will align with the U.S. Government National Standards Strategy for Critical and Emerging Technology (USG NSSCET) and its accompanying Implementation Roadmap. This initiative aims to ensure that U.S. industries maintain a competitive edge in the global market while prioritizing national security.
The center’s work will focus on four broad areas:
- Pre-standardization Engagement: This will encourage and ensure private sector-driven participation in the international standards process, with a focus on underrepresented groups such as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- Workforce Capacity Building: The center will develop a pipeline of professionals, particularly early- to mid-career individuals, who are equipped to engage in and lead standards development efforts in critical technologies.
- Collaborative Pilot Programs: In partnership with NIST, the center will work on accelerating the development of industry-driven standards for selected CETs.
- Information and Data Sharing Hub: A central resource will be created for all stakeholders, offering tailored information and tools that cater to the specific needs of various CETs.
The center’s broader goal is to ensure that the U.S. remains a global leader in international standardization efforts. By fostering collaboration between the private sector, government, and standards development organizations, the center aims to enhance the competitiveness of U.S. industries in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
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