NSBE - January/February 2008 - (Page 31)

Fostering Competitiveness Diversity U www.nsbe.org Innovation and .S. economic leadership has always been driven by the ability of American companies to turn breakthrough innovations — the Internet, fiber optics, genomics, and much more — into thriving businesses that create highpaying jobs for millions of people. This success is rooted in the unmatched talent and diversity of the American work force. For decades, U.S. companies have had access to a deep pool of scientists and engineers trained in U.S. universities — the world’s best. The impact of diversity is no less vital. At Microsoft, we’ve always succeeded by hiring the brightest minds from around the world. The result is a work force of extremely talented through By Bill Gates, ChaIrman, mICrosoFt CorporatIon people from widely different backgrounds. Their varied experiences drive innovation and help us to serve our customers better. The creativity that is unleashed when smart people with different perspectives come together is truly the engine for innovation, not only at Microsoft but at many — if not most — successful U.S. companies. Today, our country’s status as the global center for innovation is in jeopardy. The reason is simple: We face a critical shortage of people who have the knowledge and skills our economy needs. That’s because U.S. colleges and universities no longer produce enough scientists and engineers; U.S. immigration law limits our ability to hire the best talent from other countries; and our high schools are Continued on page 32 • january/february 2008 • 31 http://www.nsbe.org

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of NSBE - January/February 2008

NSBE - January/February 2008
Contents
The Pursuit of Excellence
Using Our Power
The Power of Belief
Saying It Well
Premier Profile: Owen Weston of U.S. Steel
NSBE Protégés Receive White House Honor
Regional News
International News
Fostering Competitiveness Through Innovation and Diversity
'Netting a Job
Why Graduate School?
NSBE Love
NSBE Calendar
"Igniting the Torch: Engineering in Action"
NSBE Golden Torch Awards
The AE Niche
Thinking Green
AE Members On the Move
CE Cover: Rough Road, Fun Ride
Join NSBE's Journey to Mars!
Advertisers Index

NSBE - January/February 2008