[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 55 (Thursday, April 16, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E514]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


         RECOGNIZING MARCH 5 AS NATIONAL INDUSTRIAL DESIGN DAY

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                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 16, 2015

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize March 5, 2015, 
as the First Annual National Industrial Design Day. I also want to 
congratulate the Industrial Designers Society of America on the 
occasion of its 50th anniversary. This day is being used to recognize 
those in the profession of industrial design, which has enhanced 
people's lives, not only in the 11th District of Virginia, but also 
across the United States and the world.
   The term ``industrial design'' was first recognized by the U.S. 
Patent Office in 1913, but the importance of this field was not fully 
recognized at that time. Originally comprised primarily of architects, 
package designers, and stage designers, the field expanded to include 
many diverse professionals including those in manufacturing, furniture 
design, graphic design, and automobile design, among others. The focus 
evolved to using design as a tool to make products more efficient, more 
cost effective, and more relevant.
   Today, the contributions of industrial designers include advanced 
technology such as GPS, digital interfaces, environmental graphics, 
communication systems, surgical equipment, MP3 players, and countless 
others. The economic impact of this industry helps fuel our national 
economy. In the United States, product design and related services 
generate billions in sales and the number of U.S. awarded design 
patents has reached an all-time high.
   Promotion of innovation and creativity has created a growing 
interest in industrial design. What was first hailed as a ``modern 
movement'' at the 1927 Exposition of Art in Trade in New York City is 
now taught at universities around the world.
   The Industrial Designers Society of America, headquartered in 
Herndon, Virginia in the 11th Congressional District, which I am 
pleased to represent, should be commended for being an instrumental 
force in the growth and expansion of this profession. Its membership 
now includes thousands of industrial designers in 29 countries. In 
addition, it has hosted education symposiums and conferences to ensure 
the continued growth of this field.
   I ask my colleagues to join me in proclaiming March 5 as National 
Industrial Design Day and in expressing our appreciation for the 
innovation and creativity of its members. Their designs and creations 
improve our lives in every way and are worthy of our recognition.

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