GOVERNOR CONVENES THIRD FRONTIER SUMMIT IN AKRON
Interactive Forum Helps Discussion on Area's Technology Priorities
AKRON (December 5, 2002) - Governor Bob Taft today hosted the ninth regional Third Frontier Summit in Akron to gather input and recommendations from community and technology leaders as he moves forward with implementing his $1.6 billion, high-tech jobs initiative. A new level of interaction was reached at today's summit, as audience members were able to register their opinions on the topics discussed through an interactive polling system.
"The Polymer Valley is nationally recognized as a leader in technology and is a prime example of the kind of industry the Third Frontier Project aims to nurture and encourage," said Taft. "We came to Akron today to listen and learn how to duplicate this success throughout Ohio and create more high-tech, high-paying jobs."
Prior to the summit, Taft toured Lectrotherm Process Systems, a North Canton firm that designs systems for processing specialty metals and materials.
The Governor is hosting a series of regional summits, each featuring a panel of local leaders including entrepreneurs, business leaders, higher education representatives, venture capitalists and other community members. The panel members discuss topics related to the Third Frontier, including each region's high-tech strengths and opportunities, and how to build on those strengths to create jobs and position Ohio as a leader in the knowledge economy. New to the Akron summit, audience members were polled on the issues discussed using TurningPoint interactive polling system, designed by the Youngstown firm Turning Technologies.
The Third Frontier Project is the state's largest commitment ever to expanding
Ohio's high-tech research capabilities and promoting start-up companies to build
high-wage jobs for generations to come.
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Contact: Joe Andrews, Governor's Office, at (614) 644-0957.