WASHINGTON - The Department of Commerce's United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced in a press release that it is seeking nominations for the 2018 National Medal of Technology and Innovation. The medal is the country's highest award for technological achievement and is presented by the President of the United States.

The medal is awarded to individuals, teams (up to four individuals), companies or divisions of companies for their outstanding contributions to America's economic, environmental and social well-being. The medal highlights those who have made a national impact through technological innovation, commercialization, and/or strengthening the nation’s technological workforce. The medal also seeks to inspire future generations of Americans to prepare for and pursue technical careers to keep America at the forefront of global technology and economic leadership.

 

The USPTO administers the medal program on behalf of the Secretary of Commerce. Detailed information about the nomination guidelines, sample letters of recommendation, and link to the nomination form is available on the NMTI webpage. All nominations must be completed in the nomination portal (link is external) by midnight (ET), April 6, 2018. Nominations of candidates from traditionally underrepresented groups are encouraged.