ASME Virtual Town Hall with Rep. Paul Tonko Discusses Energy, Infrastructure and Economic Recovery

ASME’s Executive Director/CEO, Tom Costabile, recently hosted a Virtual Town Hall conversation with Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20), Chair of the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change of the House Energy & Commerce Committee. Discussion included a recap of recent legislative proposals aimed at COVID-19 economic recovery and job creation, including topics ranging from clean energy, infrastructure, energy efficiency, and advanced manufacturing.
 
Congressman Tonko, who is serving his 6^th term in Congress representing the New York Capital Region, is one of a handful of Mechanical Engineers serving in the 116^th Congress, and spoke about the value of engineering perspectives in public policy and the role that science and engineering investments will play in economic recovery.   
 
“As an engineer, I am excited to speak with so many people who share the passion for engineering and innovation. I think engineers have a special ability to see problems and then seek solutions. I like to think that serves me well here in Congress, and I believe it would serve Congress well if we had more engineers in this institution.  I also want to take this time to applaud the good work that the Society does and implore you to do all you can to stay involved in the policy making process.”
 
Following his remarks, Congressman Tonko fielded questions on infrastructure investment, shoring up U.S. leadership in advanced manufacturing, and STEM education and environmental justice for underrepresented communities. 
 
Watch the full Virtual Town Hall event.