According to data presented on 31 April by Major General Dr. Ben-Israel, head of Weapons Research and Development for the Israel Defense Forces, the number of IDF officers holding degrees in engineering or university science has risen to an all-time high of 25%. Business Correspondent Seth Vogelman reports that for the first time, the high-level of engineering and scientific expertise among IDF officers is equal to the demand. The increase in the number of officers with engineering and science expertise is the result of a joint forum for encouraging volunteers, particularly gifted high school students, to study in fields that will increase the IDF's technological edge, prior to their military service.