Experts available: AI guardrails, DCA air safety, Fed rates, balcony solar, and seasonal health, and more
Virginia Tech experts available to discuss headlines in the news
The Virginia Tech media relations office has experts available for interviews this week on issues in the news, including calls for AI safety guardrails, the politics of AI, proposed safety legislation for DCA airport, expected Federal Reserve rate hikes, and more. To schedule an interview, please contact mediarelations@vt.edu.
National & Regional News Topics
Calls for AI Guardrails
Following a weekend of warnings from tech CEOs regarding existential AI risks, Virginia Tech experts Naren Ramakrishnan, Walid Saad, and Lee Vinsel can discuss needed safety guardrails, risk mitigation, and industry development.
The Politics of AI Regulation
Democrats and Republicans are both proposing regulations for AI, but the likelihood that something will happen is slim before Congress adjourns. Political and AI expert Cayce Myers can break down the legislative gridlock and federal tech policy.
DCA Airspace Safety Legislation
Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner are introducing a bill to improve flight safety around Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Aerospace expert Ella Atkins can address airspace congestion and preventative safety measures.
Federal Reserve Interest Rate Decision
Ahead of Wednesday's Fed meeting, finance expert Brad Paye is available to comment on expected quarter-point rate hikes, inflation pressures, and volatile oil markets.
The Rise of Balcony Solar
Compact plug-in solar systems are expanding energy access for renters and urban residents. Energy expert Saifur Rahman can explain the technology, cost savings, and grid impacts.
Podcast: Managing Back-to-School Family Transitions
On the latest episode of Curious Conversations, Virginia Tech marriage and family expert Paul Springer shares practical strategies for families navigating packed schedules, seasonal routines, and transitional stress. More here.
“Curious Conversations” is available on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube.
Featured Expert
Need an expert? Virginia Tech Media Relations is here to help connect you with the right person for your story. Each week, we’ll feature one faculty member and their area of expertise to help you when you need them.
Chris Williams | Professor of Mechanical Engineering & Director, DREAMS Lab
As industries rush to solve supply chain bottlenecks and build more sustainable infrastructure, 3D printing is moving far beyond basic prototyping. At Virginia Tech, researchers like Williams are expanding what can be manufactured—from self-monitoring metal components to completely recyclable wind turbine blades. Whether you're covering clean energy innovations, the future of autonomous manufacturing, or smart infrastructure, Williams can offer engaging, plain-language insights on how 3D printing is reshaping real-world industries.
Research Highlights
$600K NASA grant to protect Roanoke drinking water
Virginia Tech’s Center for Ecosystem Forecasting has secured a $600,000 NASA grant to help the Western Virginia Water Authority (WVWA) safeguard the region's drinking water using satellite technology and real-time forecasting. Researchers will integrate NASA satellite data into advanced forecasting systems to monitor and predict water quality threats across key supply sources, including Carvins Cove, Falling Creek, and Beaverdam reservoirs.
Breakthrough cancer research gets $15M boost — and it benefits pets and people
Right here in our backyard, groundbreaking comparative oncology research at Virginia Tech's Animal Cancer Care and Research Center (ACCRC) in Roanoke is finding ways to cure cancers in pets—and applying those exact discoveries to save human lives.
The landmark $15 million donation will rapidly scale up patient capacity, add top specialists, and accelerate cutting-edge therapies like histotripsy (using non-invasive sound waves to destroy tumors). Because cancers in dogs and cats share strong genetic and physiological similarities to human cancers, breakthroughs made at the Roanoke center directly inform human treatments across the street at the Virginia Tech Carilion health district.
