University technology transfer group recognizes Congressional leaders for supporting patent system that encourages job creation, stronger economy
Newswise — U.S. Reps. Tammy Baldwin and James Sensenbrenner earned national honors Monday in Jefferson, Wis., for their efforts to advance business innovation, university technology transfer and a strong patent system.
The nonpartisan awards to the two long-serving Congressional leaders were the first Public Official Awards to be given by the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM), a volunteer organization that brings together 3,000 technology transfer professionals in over 30 countries to define, develop and promote leadership excellence in academic technology transfer. AUTM supports a strong patent system to facilitate business investment in breakthrough technologies that lead to quality products for society, local jobs and a stronger economy.
Baldwin, a Democrat representing Wisconsin’s 2nd Congressional District, and Sensenbrenner, a Republican representing Wisconsin’s 5th Congressional District, are both members of the House Judiciary Committee, which has oversight on matters related to federal patent law. Support from Baldwin and Sensenbrenner has been critical in protecting Wisconsin intellectual investment from attempts to weaken the nation’s patent laws and undermine the state’s valuable research enterprise.
“Ultimately, technology transfer activities create benefits for consumers, strengthen local companies and provide a stream of revenue to universities that is typically invested to fund further scientific research,” said Robin Rasor, president-elect of AUTM and director of licensing for the University of Michigan’s technology transfer office. Rasor was in Watertown Monday to present the awards to Baldwin and Sensenbrenner.
“Particularly during challenging economic times, this cycle of innovation and investment offers a way to increase productivity, stimulate innovation and develop important partnerships,’’ Rasor said.
For more information, visit www.autm.net. To schedule an interview with an AUTM representative, contact Jodi Talley at (847) 559-0846 ext. 237.
About AUTM
The Association of University Technology Managers is a nonprofit organization with an international membership of more than 3,000 technology managers and business executives. AUTM members — managers of intellectual property, one of the most active growth sectors of the global economy —come from more than 300 universities, research institutions and teaching hospitals as well as numerous businesses and government organizations.
RSS