Florida

High-technology policy in Florida is relatively new. Florida's economy has historically depended on industries subject to economic elements beyond the state's control, that is, construction, agriculture, and tourism. Three characteristics in Florida's demographic profile are striking: its rapid population increase, its high share of residents of Hispanic origin, and its citizens' age distribution. Florida's economic development strategy places an emphasis on education; therefore, several educational programs were chosen for review. The programs selected are Florida High Technology and Industry Council, Special University Funding for Engineering and Science Programs, and Florida Engineering Education Delivery System. The programs also include Industry Services Training Program, and Postsecondary Education Programs of Excellence in Mathematics, Science, and Computer Education. The programs were complemented each other in their efforts to improve education on all levels and contribute to meeting Florida's upper-quartile goal for academic excellence.