The College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering ("CNSE") of the University at Albany hosted 40 educators from 16 Capital Region school districts on April 29 and 30 for an in-depth look at the exciting world of nanotechnology, including discussions regarding the development of new educational initiatives and partnerships designed to give students a window into their future careers.
CNSE Senior VP and CEO Dr. Alain Kaloyeros discussed the emerging science of nanotechnology.
"Nanotechnology Explorations: An In-Depth Program for Educators," presented jointly by CNSE and the City School District of Albany, which have partnered in the pioneering.
"NanoHigh" program, featured a keynote presentation from CNSE Senior Vice President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Alain Kaloyeros. The educational forum also included presentations on each of CNSE's constellations: Nanoscience, Nanoengineering, Nanobioscience and Nanoeconomics; presentation and discussion of the NanoHigh curriculum and program model; curriculum-building breakout sessions for high school biology, chemistry and physics; and, tours of CNSE's $4.5 billion Albany NanoTech Complex.
The National Science Foundation projects the need for 2 million nanotechnology-savvy workers by 2014, with 20 percent expected to be scientists and the remaining 80 percent consisting of highly skilled engineers, technicians, business leaders, economists and others, with expertise ranging from two-year associate degrees to doctoral degrees.