My core research skill is applied policy analysis. This has led me throughout my professional career to be engaged with policy makers, either directly by working with government agencies or by working with organizations that in turn deal with government agencies. A consequence of trying to connect academic ideas and public policy is that I spend a lot of time away from the University working with government organizations and other public policy interests. In essence this is almost an extension type activity, but with a different clientele. Just as in an extension program, my current research helps inform public policy and current issues in public policy help direct my future research.