There are many forces impinging upon U.S. engineering. Among the most important is internationalization. Indeed, we are entering a world in which there has been a remarkable migration of know-how. Countries around the globe are increasingly able to develop and deploy engineering and technology to enhance their own economic growth. These new and growing capabilities raise legitimate concerns about the comparative strength of the U.S. engineering enterprise.

We also live in a world in which technology development, especially in the private sector but also in government, is increasingly integrated. Corporations are seeking engineering talent wherever in the world it exists in order to produce quality products and be responsive to customers. To take advantage of lucrative foreign markets and the engineering capacity of other nations, many firms are locating research and development facilities outside of their home countries. The end of the Cold War, of course, has contributed in a major way to these changes. The new challenge facing us, our institutions, and our engineering communities is international economic competition.

This symposium, on the global agenda for American engineering, was held in honor of Gerry Dinneen, outgoing foreign secretary of the National Academy of Engineering. Over 7 years, Gerry provided remarkable leadership of the international work of the Academy. The distinguished individuals whose remarks are published in this volume all have extensive knowledge of international affairs. I believe each of them has something important to say about this most vital issue.

I would like to express special thanks to the Academy staff members who helped make this tribute the success it was: Proctor Reid, who organized and