2011 has been a banner year for international trade in the state of Utah! We are pleased that Utah is still the only state in the US to double its international exports in the last 5 years. And these Utah exports are creating Utah jobs—higher paying, longer lasting, and higher skilled jobs. So far this year, our Utah exports are already 38% above last year’s record, and on the way to Governor Herbert’s goal to double exports again in the next five years.
As we celebrate a historic year of international growth, we extend special thanks to our many Utah partners helping expand the “globalization” of Utah, including the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, Economic Development Corporation of Utah, Small Business Administration, Utah Technology Council, USTAR, and all our academic colleagues at Utah's Universities and Colleges. Repeatedly, out of state visitors marvel at the willingness of our many different partners to join together in doing what GOED Executive Director Spencer Eccles continually reminds us are the “3 Cs”—Collaborate, Communicate and Cooperate.
At the foundation of all we are trying to do for Utah’s global future is EDUCATION. We firmly believe that Education is the jet fuel that will power Utah rapidly into strong global competitiveness. We applaud our k-12 and higher education entities for their continued emphasis on matching skills with future job opportunities, and are grateful for Prosperity 2020 leading us into preparing for a vastly different future ahead of us.
As 2011 ends, we are inspired by Governor Herbert’s reminder about our state’s economic success this year: “We are pleased, but not satisfied.” We enthusiastically look forward to working with you to make 2012 even a more exciting and fulfilling year on the international trade front.
With much appreciation and warmest wishes for a meaningful Holiday Season,
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