Talent is our region’s greatest strength. The data on the migration of talent show that not only are our universities a huge magnet bringing students into the region, but they also give our economy access to a large flow of recent graduates. What we communicate to students while they are in Massachusetts is critically important. I hope you will join us in thinking about the ways we institutionalize a culture of mentorship and networking that makes students feel welcome and connected in Massachusetts. The connections we are building though industry associations, individual firms, and universities are important. As an industry and a region we are growing to appreciate that what we give back to the younger generation will propel the region’s innovation economy in the future.

Also, we need to do a better job of getting our younger students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers. Nationally, 26% of students taking the SATs check off an interest in a STEM career. In Massachusetts, that number is 20%. We have a lot of work to do!

One of the things we have going for us now is the leadership of Lt Governor Tim Murray who will be heading a statewide STEM Council. I believe his leadership signals a shift in the way Massachusetts has viewed the importance of IT careers and STEM careers in general.