The article discusses the implementation of the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act (AICA) by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The AICA, passed in 2017, provided NIST with new tools and authorities to support its mission of advancing measurement science, standards, and technology. NIST, a non-regulatory agency within the Department of Commerce, plays a key role in promoting U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness. The AICA introduced changes to NIST’s cybersecurity programs, expanded its ability to host conferences, and supported prize competitions and citizen science initiatives. It also improved oversight of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership and enhanced security management at NIST’s facilities.
NIST has made significant progress in several areas under the AICA, including quantum computing and cryptography standards, cybersecurity of voting systems, and the development of new measurement science and technology. The agency is also working on a long-term strategic plan to guide its research priorities, focusing on areas like quantum science, artificial intelligence, and data science. NIST continues to collaborate with industry, academia, and government to address national needs and support innovation. The AICA has helped NIST strengthen its security culture, streamline conference attendance, and expand its outreach through programs like the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship and prize competitions. Overall, the AICA has supported NIST in advancing its mission and contributing to the U.S. economy and national security.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/speech-testimony/one-year-later-american-innovation-and-competitiveness-act
Keywords: quantum computing, quantum cryptography, standards development
