Public Policy Issues

Clean Energy, Advanced Manufacturing, Bioengineering, Robotics, Pressure Technology, and R&D and STEM are among ASME’s top public policy priorities.

Clean Energy

Energy technology is undergoing the most rapid technological change since the replacement of gas streetlights with electric lighting, and the horse with the internal combustion engine. The widespread adoption of renewable electrical generation, the deployment of electric vehicles, increased production of natural gas, and the development of grid-level energy storage are some of the most visible aspects of this transformation. Because of the impact of these technology changes on national priorities, it is in the national interest that third-party organizations provide accurate and unbiased technical advice to policy makers. Learn more about ASME’s work to support the development of an affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy system:

Advanced Manufacturing

In addition to being a critical part of the U.S. national security apparatus, innovation pipeline, and process for job creation, manufacturing holds the promise for the establishment of wholly new products and industries. The U.S. maintains leadership in a range of machinery and equipment manufactured goods, as well as in the pharmaceutical, transportation, food processing, and electronic products industries—with each sector slated for future expansion fed by global demand from expanding and emerging markets. While the U.S. has made major progress in recent years with the creation of the Manufacturing USA program and the passage of the Revitalize American Manufacturing Innovation (RAMI) Act, ASME continues work to ensure that the U.S. remains globally competitive in manufacturing technology development. Learn more about public policies to strengthen the manufacturing sector:

Bioengineering

Bioengineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines engineering principles and knowledge of the physical and life sciences to solve problems in biology, medicine, behavior, and health. It is used to advance our understanding of biological systems, as well as to develop novel medications and medical devices to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Bioengineers have employed mechanical engineering principles in the development of many lifesaving and life-improving technologies such as robotic surgery, the artificial heart, prosthetic joints, diagnostics, and numerous rehabilitation technologies. Learn more about ASME’s work to promote bioengineering applications and investments:

Robotics

Robotics has the potential, in the near future, to transform every aspect of our society in a positive way by saving time, money, and lives while improving infrastructure and increasing national security and economic prosperity. Learn more about ASME’s advocacy to support economic growth, workforce development, and innovation in the robotics sector:

Pressure Technology

ASME is the global leader on the design, analysis, materials, fabrication, construction, inspection, operation, and failure-prevention of a variety of pressure technology applications. ASME's pressure technology codes and standards are used globally in over 100 countries to improve public health and safety outcomes and promote the quality, reliability, and suitability of pressure technology products and services. Learn more about ASME’s Standards & Certification activities.

R&D and STEM

Engineers have a long-standing interest in applying their knowledge to improve the environment, human health, and quality of life. The U.S. must invest in the research, development, and education enterprises that will empower engineers to solve looming environmental and societal challenges. Learn more about Economic Growth through Technological Innovation.