Nanotechnology offers exciting promise for growth
Excitement is building for the promise of nanotechnology, and the Bedford County Development Association is encouraging partnerships that will bring the future to a variety of industries in the region.
Recently, BCDA joined with the Allegany College of Maryland to participate in a symposioum held at Penn State. The goal of that session was to provide the information neeeded to create nanotechnology education programs in Bedford County at the secondary and post-secondary levels.
Robin Swindell, student services representative from the Bedford County campus of the Allegany College of Maryland, sees great potential in a partnership with Penn State.
"I am very excited for our students. I can see how a dual program between ACM and local high schools in nanotechnology would bring great benefits to our local economy," she said. "We need to keep the best and brightest of our students in Bedford County and the region."
Swindell expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the symposium.
Rich Hoover, director of research and development for Materials Research Institute at Penn State, noted that Bedford County has been actively pursing relationships with his unit and many others at the university.
"Penn State ranks third in the nation in terms of industry-sponsored research," he stated. "It makes sense that local industries be encouraged to get involved."
Bob Ehrmann, director of education and outreach for the Center for Nanotechnology Education and Utilization, explaned that ACM could join with 21 other institutions that now offer associate degrees in nanotechnology in partnership with Penn State.