Marcy, NY (WIBX) - SUNYIT continues to push forward in its quest to introduce nanotechnology to the Mohawk Valley, as it hosted its second forum on the topic.

Two experts on the topic spoke during the event, held Thursday afternoon in the Student Center, addressing advancements in nanotechnology and what the region can do to meet ever-growing demand.

Sally Tinkle, the Deputy Director of the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office of the National Science and Technology Council, was the keynote speaker, stressing the importance of the field going into the future.

Lisa Friedersdorf, president and owner of AdviSci, also spoke, addressing the community and government's role while adjusting to the new field.

"It's not something that is so far out that it doesn't make sense for this area," Friedersdorf said. "I see the pieces in place and the pieces that have been developing over the past several years. When I look at these types of interactions and the partnerships and the development that I've been involved in in the past; these things take time. Sometimes they take several years, but once you build the foundation, you build on that strength."

SUNYIT President, Wolf Yeigh, says nanotechnology may be the Mohawk Valley's key to create and retain jobs.

"The way you're going to bring back these great manufacturing jobs is by investing in, supporting and growing the nanotechnology industry," Yeigh said. "So, I see it as a necessary piece and necessary ingredient for the Mohawk Valley to succeed, and it's going to be a key piece of what's going to shape this region in the 21st century."

In 2009, SUNYIT entered a partnership with the University at Albany's College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering. The college is currently performing preliminary site work, as it prepares to build a new technology complex for future nanotech tenants.

More From WIBX 950