National Medal of Technology and Innovation

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National Medal of Technology and Innovation

The National Medal of Technology and Innovation (NMTI) is an honor awarded by the President of the United States to American inventors and innovators who have made significant contributions to the development and commercialization of technological products, processes, and concepts. Established in 1980, the medal recognizes those who have enhanced America's competitiveness and quality of life through technological innovation.

History

The National Medal of Technology and Innovation was created by the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980. The first medals were awarded in 1985. The award was initially known as the National Medal of Technology, but its name was changed to the National Medal of Technology and Innovation in 2007 to better reflect the broad spectrum of technological advancements it honors.

Criteria

Recipients of the NMTI are selected based on their contributions to the promotion of technology for the improvement of the economic, environmental, or social well-being of the United States. The award can be given to individuals, teams, companies, or divisions of companies.

Selection Process

Nominations for the NMTI are solicited from the public and reviewed by a distinguished committee of experts from both the public and private sectors. The committee evaluates the nominations and makes recommendations to the Secretary of Commerce, who then forwards the recommendations to the President for final approval.

Notable Recipients

Some notable recipients of the National Medal of Technology and Innovation include:

• Steve Jobs - Co-founder of Apple Inc.
• Bill Gates - Co-founder of Microsoft
• Dean Kamen - Inventor of the Segway PT
• Frances Arnold - Pioneer in the field of directed evolution

Impact

The NMTI has played a significant role in highlighting the importance of technological innovation in the United States. It has encouraged the development of new technologies and has inspired future generations of inventors and innovators.

See Also

• National Medal of Science
• Presidential Medal of Freedom
• List of science and technology awards

Related Pages

• Technology
• Innovation
• United States Department of Commerce
• Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980