Taking Measure

Four people stand talking in a converted factory space near a large interior window through which a complex, high-tech manufacturing line is visible.

From the Machine Shop to Cutting-Edge Technology: How NIST Helps Grow American Manufacturing

September 30, 2025

Cassondra Blasioli

For more than a decade, Manufacturing USA has worked to grow and improve the U.S. manufacturing sector.

Andrew Iams wears safety glasses as his face is framed in an opening between two horizontal pieces of equipment in the lab.

From the Steel City to the Lab: Strengthening the U.S. Steel Industry Through Science

September 24, 2025

Andrew Iams

A NIST researcher from Pittsburgh — known as the Steel City — is working to understand how we can better make steel right here in the U.S.

Angie Hight Walker and Amber McCreary stand side by side in the lab adjusting a complex scientific device.

From Postdoc to Quantum Physicist: How NIST Made Me a Better Scientist and Leader

September 17, 2025

Amber McCreary

A former NIST postdoctoral researcher recalls how hands-on science and supportive mentoring helped develop her science career.

A bearded man poses smiling next to an open cabinet of equipment in a lab.

Laser Focused: How Light Reflections Could Revolutionize 3D Printing of Metals

September 10, 2025

Brian Gutierrez

A NIST researcher is working to better understand 3D metal printing — in hopes that the technology could make more consistent parts.

A woman sits in the passenger side of a parked car, looking at a large monitor attached to the dashboard.

A Summer of Science: How Our Interns Spent Their Summers in the Lab

August 27, 2025

Megan King

From self-driving cars to advancing forensics technology, NIST’s interns had a busy summer in the lab.

About this blog

Taking Measure is the official blog of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

It provides a behind-the-scenes look at NIST’s research and programs, covering a broad range of science and technology areas. Through this blog, NIST’s researchers and staff share why they do what they do and how today’s research will lead to tomorrow’s innovations.

The views presented here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of NIST.

If you have any questions about our blog or reprint requests, please contact us at takingmeasure [at] nist.gov (takingmeasure[at]nist[dot]gov).

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