Praneetha Kotla, a distinguished Robotic Process Automation (RPA) expert from Charlotte, North Carolina, joined fellow technology professionals on Capitol Hill as part of IEEE-USA’s 2025 Congressional Visits Day (CVD). This annual event connects engineers, scientists, and technologists with federal lawmakers to discuss innovation policy and national competitiveness.

Representing IEEE-USA, Kotla met with members of North Carolina’s congressional delegation—including U.S. Senators Ted Budd and Thom Tillis, and Representatives Alma Adams and Chuck Edwards—to advocate for federal policies that advance the United States' technological leadership and support a robust, inclusive innovation ecosystem.

Championing Innovation and a Future-Ready Workforce

With a forward-looking policy vision, Kotla focused her advocacy on four key priorities:

Expanding equitable access to artificial intelligence (AI) systems

Enhancing support for small business technology development

Strengthening and diversifying the STEM workforce

Increasing federal investments in science and technology

Kotla strongly endorsed the CREATE AI Act (H.R. 2385), which would establish the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR), providing researchers, students, and startups with greater access to AI tools and datasets. She urged lawmakers to co-sponsor the bipartisan legislation to ensure the U.S. remains a global leader in ethical and inclusive AI innovation.

She also advocated for the reauthorization of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, vital sources of early-stage R&D funding. Kotla emphasized the need for added training and outreach components to expand participation among underrepresented communities.

Addressing the STEM talent pipeline, Kotla voiced strong support for the Keep STEM Talent Act, a bipartisan proposal that would streamline the transition from student visas to permanent residency for international STEM graduates—helping the U.S. retain top global talent in science and engineering fields.

Additionally, Kotla called for robust FY26 federal funding for science and technology agencies, including support for research in AI, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Engaging with Policymakers at a Critical Time

CVD 2025 began with policy briefings and advocacy training at the International Spy Museum, followed by a full day of meetings in the House and Senate office buildings. The experience concluded with a group photo on the U.S. Capitol’s east side, framed by Washington’s iconic cherry blossoms.

Reflecting on her participation, Kotla said, “The professionalism and dedication of the policymakers and staff we engaged with was inspiring. It reaffirmed the vital role that technologists play in shaping smart, forward-thinking public policy.”

About IEEE-USA and Congressional Visits Day

IEEE-USA’s Congressional Visits Day is an annual initiative that empowers engineers and scientists to engage directly with federal lawmakers. Open to all U.S.-based IEEE members, CVD fosters dialogue on innovation policy, workforce development, and national competitiveness.

IEEE-USA supports evidence-based public policy that advances technological innovation, strengthens the engineering profession, and promotes a diverse and inclusive tech workforce.