History
In 1976, recognizing the need for authoritative and organized technical advice for state government, about one hundred technical individuals from both academic and industrial fields formed the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering (“the Academy”), a private nonprofit corporation patterned after the National Academy of Sciences. The Academy was chartered by the Connecticut General Assembly in 1976 as a 200-member organization whose main purpose was to advise state government and industry “in the application of science and engineering to the economic and social welfare.” (Special Act No. 76-53).
Membership
Individuals are nominated for election as members of the Academy by members through an annual election process. Members must live or work in Connecticut. They are elected by the current membership on the basis of their accomplishments in science, engineering and/or technology. In particular, scientists and engineers may be considered for membership on the basis of fulfillment of either or both of the following criteria:
(a) scientific distinction achieved through significant original contribution in theory or application;
(b) unusual accomplishments in the pioneering of new and developing fields of applied science and technology.
Activities
One of the principal purposes of the Academy is to provide science and technology information and advice, usually by performing studies, on public policy issues upon request of a government agency, the General Assembly, or in some instances, private organizations. These studies result in formal Reports published by the Academy. Summaries of recent studies conducted by the Academy are available here.
The Academy also issues a publication called the Bulletin, which features articles on new developments in science and technology around the state. It is distributed free to members, government officials, college and high school science departments, and research libraries at the state’s major private research facilities, as well as other interested individuals, upon request.
Other Academy activities include awards to student winners of science competitions, such as the CT Science and Engineering Fair, the CT Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, and the CT Invention Convention, and also on behalf of the state of Connecticut the Connecticut Medal of Science and the Connecticut Medal of Technology.
Support
The Academy receives funding from state agencies and the General Assembly for the purpose of performing studies and other tasks. Other funding to support the mission of the Academy comes in the form of support from the Academy’s Patrons, other organizations, as well as the membership of the Academy.