Massachusetts Still No. 1 In Technology, California Slipping
A report by the Milken Institute recently named Massachusetts as the top spot for growth in technology and science in America.
In fact, Massachusetts has been ranked No. 1 all three times since the State Technology and Science Index has been released.
“This report is great news for Massachusetts and reflects our continuing commitment to the best science and technology,” said Gov. Deval Patrick. “We know that to compete and win in a global economy we need a work force skilled in these areas.”
Released on Thursday, the study also points out that California has slipped from second place for the first time, despite being home to the innovative Silicon Valley.
"This should be seen as a red flag" for California," said Ross DeVol, director of Regional Economics at the Milken Institute, and lead author of the study.
"It’s not the end of the world, but it’s something that needs to be addressed."
California dropped to fourth place in 2008, while Maryland took its No. 2 spot and Colorado remained at third, where it was during the last survey in 2004.
“The results of the Milken Institute study are further evidence that Maryland is highly and increasingly competitive in drawing, retaining, and growing technology-based businesses,” said Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley.
The rankings are affected by a state’s entrepreneurial environment, population of technology-savvy workers and government commitments to education and other programs.
The State Technology and Science Index looks at 77 unique indicators that are categorized into five major components: Research and Development Inputs, Risk Capital and Entrepreneurial Infrastructure, Human Capital Investment, Technology and Science Work Force, and Technology Concentration and Dynamism.
The Milken Institute, an independent economic think tank, cited Massachusetts’ recent passing of a $1-billion life sciences bill to invest in high-tech infrastructure and research and development over the next 10 year.
“States that have a vision and a plan for building and retaining high-wage jobs and viable industries are finding ways to invest in their science and technology assets,” said DeVol.
“The changes in this year’s Index give a good measure of who is ahead in the increasing competition for scarce human capital and other resources needed for a successful industry.”
North Dakota showed the greatest gains, moving up 14 positions to 31st. New Hampshire jumped to the ninth spot after being ranked 12 in 2004 and Virginia ““ No. 5 in 2004 ““ dropped to sixth position, being replaced by Washington.
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