The traditional factory town that helped transform America into an industrial giant must utilize new ways of thinking and new methods of innovation to remain competitive in the global marketplace.

In the last few years it is no longer cheap labor/low skills. Now it is cheap labor/high skills.

The picture is going to change, it has to change. Definitely there are some healthy areas, but overall the trends are not good. It's time serious attention is given and not just lip service.

In order for our area to be competitive, we have to have the know-how and the infrastructure.

The resources needed in the future to support continued growth in China are simply unattainable if current consumption patterns continue. Sustainable design technologies offer a vehicle to increase efficiency, which will enhance China's economic growth while allowing for better management of its tremendous environmental challenges.