The Missouri Chamber Foundation indicates that Missouri is poised to become a rising center in the tech industry.
On Tuesday, the organization revised its “Technology 2030” report, detailing plans to position Missouri as a worldwide frontrunner in the tech industry economy by the year 2030.
According to the report, the state is anticipated to rank among the top 10 nationwide for growth in technology manufacturing jobs over the coming half-decade.
Ted Abernathy, co-author of the “Technology 2030” report, stated, “We’re witnessing swift technological advancements. According to our observations, this pace of transformation is unmatched since the 1960s.”
The Missouri Chamber Foundation reports that job openings in sectors like agricultural technology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity have risen recently.
In the last half-decade, the state has seen an increase of more than 14,000 positions in the technology sector.
It’s a period of swift strategic planning for technology firms as they aim to determine their position in the future landscape. They seek to develop innovative products, services, and profit-driven avenues. Given your region’s legacy in manufacturing, locals are quite familiar with and fond of this industry. However, manufacturing relies heavily on having robust infrastructure and a favorable business environment within the state. This includes being attractive from both a taxation and regulatory standpoint,” explained Abernathy.
As a result, Missouri has become the seventh quickest expanding tech economy in the nation.
Abernathy states that the technical manufacturing industry is the state’s greatest asset.
In 2022, this sector provided jobs for over 159 thousand locals and generated nearly $19 billion in earnings.
A major worry for the state was attracting and keeping tech professionals within its borders.
People are now moving into the area, and one reason for this shift is that factors motivating relocation have evolved. Cost-effectiveness plays a role, along with the prospect of new opportunities.
Abernethy stated, “Everyone around you is vying for an edge. They spend their time in meetings, striving to outdo Missouri. Therefore, don’t rely solely on your principles, and always avoid thinking you’ve exhausted all competitive avenues. Continuously assess your strengths and leverage them.”
The Technology 2030 Report includes seven suggestions aimed at enhancing Missouri’s technological competitive edge:
Utilize areas where Missouri already possesses strengths.
Focus talent recruitment on returning Missourians.
Increase initiatives aimed at linking youth with tech career opportunities.
Expand efforts to engage with minority communities within the tech industry.
Highlight the advantages of the local business environment.
Tackle deficiencies in technological infrastructure and ensure digital equality.
Create a collaboration between government and private sectors aimed at advancing artificial intelligence technology.
