In forming the Grand Challenges for Engineering committee, the NAE sought leading thinkers with a wide range of expertise and experience.  This project brings together a diverse group of people dedicated to improving quality of life around the globe. William Perry , Committee Chair , (Former Secretary of Defense, U.S. Department of Defense) Michael and Barbara Berberian Professor and Professor of Engineering, Stanford University The committee's task was to identify the grand challenges for engineering --- problems and opportunities --- facing those born at the dawn of this new century.  The Challenges were announced in early 2008. This project is sponsored by a grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation, Award # ENG-063206.