Resources to Support Physicists as Versatile and Progressive Innovators

Physicists are trained first with broad fundamental knowledge and then through experience with exquisitely refined and specialized models and instrumentation. This is a superb platform from which to address real-world problems when it is augmented by ready access to additional practical resources. We have explored a systematic three-part approach to providing those resources: (1) creating an organized environment that stockpiles technical artifacts, tools, and instruments; (2) developing curriculum for on-demand learning of new technical competencies; (3) providing a community of like-minded physicists who enjoy connecting physics with innovation. For physicists early in their training or careers, we hope that this is a particularly attractive basis for exploring a wider range of professional options.