Fulfilling a promise made in his 1999 State of the State Address, Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne recently announced the formation of the Idaho Science and Technology Advisory Council. The council’s first responsibility will be to develop a state science and technology strategic plan. The Idaho Department of Commerce will provide staff support for the council.
Dr. Bill Shipp, director of the Department of Energy’s Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL), will chair the council and serve as the state’s Science and Technology Advisor. Other members of the advisory council were not named but will also be appointed by Governor Kempthorne.
In addition to advising the governor on science and technology issues, Dr. Shipp will assist the Idaho Department of Commerce, State Board of Education, Idaho colleges and universities, other government agencies and private sector organizations regarding science and technology. Shipp will retain his position as Director for INEEL’s new management contractor, Bechtel BWXT Idaho, while serving in his advisory capacity to the state.
Dr. Shipp becomes the second Bechtel employee this year to become a state science and technology advisor. Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn appointed Dr. Christopher Hagen advisor this past spring.
