SUNY Poly Provost Dr. Andrew Russell recently published a thought-provoking essay in Issues in Science and Technology. His piece, titled "The Politics of Recognition,” is a response to a summer article by Norman R. Augustine Senior Scholar and Senior Director of Programs of the National Academy of Engineering Dr. Guru Madhavan, which traced the historic roots of recognition within engineering, using the development of New York City’s infrastructure in the 19th century as a backdrop, including projects like Central Park.
 
Dr. Russell’s response brings the discussion to the present day, examining how issues of recognition persist in engineering and engineering technology, including some of the initiatives and challenges being addressed here at SUNY Poly. His analysis highlights how different segments of the workforce receive acknowledgment for their contributions, impacting perceptions of occupational prestige and societal needs.
 
Dr. Russell underscores that, “Closer attention to the politics of recognition in engineering—indeed in all occupations—can help Americans understand how we arrived at our present state, overcome some of our elitist prejudices, and recalibrate the relationship between occupational prestige and the workforce that the nation actually needs.” This reflection urges readers to consider how fair recognition might foster a workforce better aligned with contemporary societal demands.

To read Dr. Russell's essay, click here.