12.14.2004 ET

(CSRwire) HARTFORD, CT - The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) has named United Technologies Corp. the winner of its 2005 Golden Torch Award for Corporate Diversity Leadership. UTC was recognized for its outstanding professional achievements in the fields of engineering and science, and for its overall commitment to diversity initiatives.

UTC will receive the award at NSBE's 8th Annual Golden Torch Awards ceremony March 24, 2005, in Boston.

The Golden Torch Awards honor companies, institutions and individuals who enrich their professions and the world with "intelligence, talent and vision" while serving as role models for others and helping to advance opportunities for African Americans.

UTC has a long-standing partnership with NSBE and shares a dedication to work force diversity, education and community outreach. UTC has established a number of programs to create a balanced and diverse work force of highly educated and experienced employees. The company also collaborates with other professional and educational organizations including the National Black MBA Association, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. UTC also partners with and recruits from four historically black colleges and universities and the top engineering schools in the country.

NSBE also applauded UTC's community outreach efforts. The company contributes more than $14 million annually to charitable organizations, and supports programs in the Greater Hartford area that address the community's human services needs.

United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, is a diversified company that provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the building systems and aerospace industries. Fortune Magazine has ranked UTC as a "Most Admired" company every year since 2001 based on criteria including social responsibility, innovation and financial performance.

For more information please contact: