The Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering is a nonprofit institution that provides unbiased, expert advice on science- and technology-related issues to Connecticut state government and other institutions. The academy is funded primarily by an investor-owned, for-profit utility company, the Connecticut Light & Power Company.
The academy was founded in 1976, chartered by the Connecticut General Assembly as an organization whose main purpose was to advise state government and industry "in the application of science and engineering to the economic and social welfare." (Special Act No. 76-53).
The academy's membership limit is determined by its bylaws and is currently at 400 members, who must live or work in Connecticut. New members are elected by the current membership on the following criteria: scientific distinction achieved through significant original contribution in theory or application, and/or unusual accomplishments in the pioneering of new and developing fields of applied science and technology.