text: The NAE is autonomous in its administration and in the selection of its members , sharing with the rest of the National Academies the role of advising the federal government . The NAE operates engineering programs aimed at meeting national needs , encourages education and research , and recognizes the superior achievements of engineers .
simplified: The NAE is part of United States National Academies advising the federal government on engineering programs aimed at meeting national needs , encourages education and research .