Nanotechnology—A Frontier for Engineering Education*

The preparation of a nanotechnology workforce for the next decade is a major challenge for the progress of this new technology. It is estimated that about 2 million workers will be needed worldwide in 10±15 years from now. Most of the major disciplines converge at the nanoscale toward the same building blocks, principles and tools of investigation. This paper outlines key US education and training activities in the general context of the National Nanotechnology Initiative that was announced in January 2000. Investigation of systems at the nanoscale requires an increase role of engineering education. Specific education models and the institutionalization of nanotechnology curricula in grades K to 12 and academic institutions are recommended for achieving a modern education system.