Changing the Face of Science & Engineering: it is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.(Brief Article)

The 2002 Sigma Xi Forum in Galveston, Texas, on November 14-15 will address a variety of topics related to the scientific workforce of the future, including critical human resource issues and the need to be inclusive.

Engineers and scientists have always mastered change, exploring new ways of understanding the world and then harnessing the power of their discoveries to change the way people live. Advances in microelectronics, telecommunications, materials sciences and biotechnology have accelerated the pace of technological change at an unprecedented rate.

During this same period, Western societies have experienced an equally dramatic social change--becoming more and more diverse. A continuing decline in enthusiasm for science and technology among college-age students, even among segments of the population who have traditionally filled science, engineering and technology positions, leads to the urgent question--who will do science in the coming decades?

It is clear that the health of the research enterprise requires capitalizing on the vibrancy of a diverse workforce.

Through the 2002 Forum, Changing the Face of Science and Engineering, Sigma Xi will engage its members with the public policy, education and business communities in stimulating debate and collaboration across disciplines to meet this challenge.

The forum, coupled with related activities and publications, will focus on critical issues surrounding human resource inputs to the scientific enterprise, particularly the need for an inclusive science and technology workforce.

A companion publication featuring contributions by plenary speakers is planned in conjunction with the forum, as are related activities by some of Sigma Xi's 516 chapters at universities and colleges, government laboratories and industry research centers.