The National Medal of Technology is an honor bestowed by the President of the United States to American innovators whose efforts have made significant contributions to the nation's economic, environmental, and social well-being through advancements in technology. Here's a detailed overview:
History
- Establishment: The medal was established by an Act of Congress in 1980, under the leadership of Senator Birch Bayh and signed into law by President Jimmy Carter.
- First Award: The first National Medal of Technology was awarded in 1985.
- Renaming: In 1999, the award was renamed to the National Medal of Technology and Innovation to reflect the broader scope of contributions recognized.
Eligibility and Criteria
- The medal recognizes individuals, teams, or companies for their outstanding contributions in the field of technology.
- Candidates are selected based on:
- Improvements in the nation's economic, environmental, or social well-being.
- Development of new and important technology.
- Leadership in enhancing technological enterprise.
Award Ceremony
- The Medal is typically presented by the President of the United States during an annual White House ceremony.
- The recipients receive a medallion and a citation from the President.
Design of the Medal
- The medal features:
- A central disk with an image of the Statue of Liberty's arm and torch, symbolizing liberty and enlightenment through technology.
- The reverse side of the medal displays an oak tree, symbolizing strength, growth, and development.
Notable Recipients
Significance
- The award not only celebrates individual or corporate achievement but also encourages the development of technology that can lead to further innovation and societal benefits.
- It underscores the U.S. government's commitment to fostering technological advancements.
For more detailed information, see:
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