ASME Committee on Government Relations Convenes in Washington to Advance Engineering Policy Priorities

On May 20th, members of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Committee on Government Relations (CGR) convened in Washington, D.C. to discuss emerging public policy issues impacting the engineering profession and engage directly with policymakers on Capitol Hill. 

Comprised of volunteer leaders from across industry, academia, and ASME sectoral activities, the CGR helps connect engineering expertise with federal policymaking. The committee works alongside ASME Government Relations staff to identify emerging policy challenges, develop advocacy priorities, and provide technical insight on issues impacting the engineering profession. During the 2026 Spring meeting, CGR members discussed how ASME can continue strengthening its role as a trusted, non-partisan resource for policymakers on issues shaping the future of engineering and technology. 

As federal policymakers continue to focus on issues related to advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, energy infrastructure, workforce shortages, and U.S. technological competitiveness, engineering expertise plays an increasingly important role in shaping policy discussions. Throughout the meeting, CGR members examined how ASME can continue supporting policymakers with technical insight while elevating issues important to the engineering profession, including workforce development, standards policy, research investment, and the long-term strength of the domestic STEM pipeline. 

Following the strategy session, CGR members and ASME Government Relations staff conducted congressional meetings with House and Senate offices to discuss engineering and workforce priorities impacting communities across the country.  

During the congressional visits, ASME representatives highlighted the importance of sustained federal investment in engineering research and development agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and Department of Energy (DOE). Discussions also emphasized the importance of strengthening engineering workforce pathways through STEM education, community college partnerships, and Registered Apprenticeship programs to help meet growing workforce demands in advanced manufacturing and emerging technology sectors. 

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