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Idaho Charts Aggressive Course for Tech-based Future

Science policy and tech-based economic development have taken center stage in Idaho with last week’s release of the Idaho Science and Technology Strategy and the supporting new initiatives included in Governor Dirk Kempthorne’s recent budget message.

With the strong tech base in Boise, the wealth of science and technical expertise at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL), and robust state revenues, Governor Kempthorne and the 23-member Science and Technology Advisory Council he appointed believe the key elements are in place to launch a comprehensive strategy for growing and expanding the state’s tech-based economic. The council, which includes the state’s top technology company executives, engineers, educators, and technology experts, recommended several courses of action in the Idaho Science and Technology Strategy:

Idaho Creates S&T Council

Fulfilling a promise made in his 1999 State of the State Address, Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne recently announced the formation of the Idaho Science and Technology Advisory Council. The council’s first responsibility will be to develop a state science and technology strategic plan. The Idaho Department of Commerce will provide staff support for the council. Dr. Bill Shipp, director of the Department of Energy’s Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL), will chair the council and serve as the state’s Science and Technology Advisor. Other members of the advisory council were not named but will also be appointed by Governor Kempthorne.