Acting Under Secretary for Science and Technology (S&T) Julie Brewer outlines her goals for growing S&T output and collaboration during this time of transition and new opportunity.
The start of a new year is a good time to take stock of what has come before and to prepare for what lies ahead. Looking back at S&T’s many innovations and advancements in 2024, which you can learn about in our Year In Review retrospective, I am excited for the opportunity to help guide the Directorate on to even greater successes in 2025, as we meet the challenges of the Department’s mission to ensure the security of the U.S. homeland.
I am no stranger to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). For more than 16 years, it has been a privilege to be part of the S&T team. Before joining DHS, I served in the U.S. Air Force for 8 years, separating from the military as a captain to enter private consulting. But the call of public service remained strong for me.
During my time here, I have witnessed how important it is for the U.S. government to invest in S&T research and development (R&D)—crucial funding that enables innovations across the DHS enterprise. From our national laboratories to the Silicon Valley Innovation Program to the Centers of Excellence in our stewardship, the work produced by DHS and our partners results in innovations and technologies that enhance the capabilities of our frontline operators, our border patrol, law enforcement agents, and first responders to better serve and protect the American people from ever-evolving threats.
Defending this country is no small feat. Staying ahead of adversaries who threaten U.S. security requires essential partnerships that connect public and private research efforts. These collaborations maximize access to the most cutting-edge improvements in science and technology today, enhancements that S&T can then operationalize into real-world impacts in the field. For instance, S&T-funded R&D helps the U.S. Coast Guard patrol 95 thousand miles of U.S. coastline every day. Our innovations also assist the Transportation Security Administration to safely and efficiently screen millions of passengers daily. And we are leveraging technologies to optimize FEMA search and rescue operations after devastating natural disasters, among multiple other successes.
Those doing the hard work on the frontlines are not faceless feds. They are people—men and women dedicating their lives to protecting us. The strength and technologies we gain from partnerships also increase the safety and effectiveness of our workforce.
My goal as Acting Under Secretary is two-pronged: to tell the story of the impact of S&T successes to articulate the importance of investing in science and technology, and to inspire our S&T teams who lead the innovation that helps ensure the safety and protection of our country.
During this dynamic time of transition, let’s not only embrace the change, let’s be inspired to achieve even more success in 2025. Expect great things from us!
Happy New Year from S&T.