In his first major address since being confirmed, Michael Kratsios, the newly appointed Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), laid out a sweeping vision for America’s technological future. Speaking at the Endless Frontiers Summit, Kratsios articulated the administration’s strategy for scientific innovation, economic competitiveness, and global tech leadership.
Kratsios, confirmed by the U.S. Senate on March 25 in a 74–25 bipartisan vote, now serves as the 13th OSTP Director and the President’s Science Advisor. His speech marked the administration’s first comprehensive statement on technology policy.
In a bold and expansive address, Kratsios called for a national revival centered around innovation, competition, and strategic investment. Key pillars of the speech included the revival of America’s pioneering spirit and an aggressive stance against technological stagnation.
Among the major priorities outlined:
Reviving Innovation: Kratsios emphasized the need to rekindle a national culture of advancement, rejecting complacency and embracing the trailblazing energy that fueled mid-20th century progress.
Leadership Through Investment and Protection: He urged simultaneous promotion and safeguarding of U.S. tech dominance, combining funding and early adoption with stronger export controls and intellectual property protections.
Beyond Defensive Postures: Moving past “small yard, high fence” strategies, he called for proactive competition and bold investments in AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, and semiconductors.
Empowering the Private Sector: Kratsios advocated for rapid government funding tools—like prize competitions and market guarantees—to drive innovation and draw in industry participation.
Regulatory Reform: He proposed dismantling outdated rules that impede progress in nuclear energy, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and high-speed transport.
Government as First Customer: He stressed the importance of federal agencies leading as early adopters of breakthrough technologies to spark broader adoption.
Global Tech Standards: By expanding export pathways, the U.S. should aim to establish its “tech stack” as the international standard and strengthen global partnerships.
Domestic Industrial Rebuilding: The speech called for reshoring critical supply chains and reinvigorating American industrial strength through public-private efforts.
Tech Security Measures: Kratsios highlighted stricter export controls and compliance to prevent adversaries—particularly China—from acquiring sensitive innovations.
Safeguarding Research and Data: He proposed tighter controls on foreign access to research and more oversight on international collaborations to curb risks of IP theft and undue influence.
Labor and Productivity Focus: Kratsios challenged the reliance on cheap labor and open immigration, advocating instead for technology that empowers American workers with greater autonomy and efficiency.
Inclusive Policy Development: He emphasized involving technologists and scientists directly in policymaking, noting that innovation and governance must work hand-in-hand.
Stay ahead of the curve with the latest in U.S. tech policy – Visit our website for full coverage.
Disclaimer: This article reflects the latest statements made by Michael Kratsios, Director of the OSTP. Views and policies may evolve over time. Please verify with official sources for the most current information.
The full speech, marking a pivotal moment in the administration’s science and technology agenda, is available in the video linked below.
