Accelerating the cleanup of the former DOE weapons complex depends on three criteria. First is the availability of new technologies that actually solve users' problems—either because the technologies are real breakthroughs or because they work faster, with less risk, or at lower cost than before. Second is a deliberate focus by the Office of Science and Technology (OST) on its role as technology middleman for both its own and others' products and services. And third is the determination of EM program offices to embrace integration of the multifarious paths to closure—integration based on cooperating with each other and with OST.

After the interview with OST's Gerald Boyd and John Lehr, published in the Spring 1998 issue, Initiatives talked with the (Acting) Deputy Assistant Secretaries for Waste Management (EM-30, Mark Frei), Environmental Restoration (EM-40, Jim Fiore), and Nuclear Material and Facility Stabilization (EM-60, Dave Huizenga) to learn how OST and innovative technologies are helping these programs achieve their missions. The result, in brief, was "three thumbs up." The hoped-for return on earlier investments is becoming real and making a difference.

Click on each of the (acting) deputy assistant secretaries below to see how OST rates with its customers.