Big broadband, partnerships help boost local economy in Missoula

Robert McCoy’s Aug. 16 column http://missoulian.com/news/opinion/columnists/um-favors-private-sector-research-over-education/article_5d74051c-068b-11e3-9bf0-0019bb2963f4.html criticized the University of Montana for its efforts to support the innovative technology economy by partnering with IBM, as well as the city of Missoula and Missoula County, for being too late in efforts to bring affordable "Next Generation" broadband to the businesses that need it. I offer this counterpoint to energize the many Missoulians who believe in the power of local entrepreneurs to catalyze lasting economic growth for our region.

I became a champion of gigabit-plus broadband networks because I care about keeping young Montanans in the state by generating solid, good-paying jobs. I just turned 30, and I am tired of seeing my friends move away from Missoula because they can’t find decent jobs that capitalize on their hard-earned skills and allow them to afford homes or have children.

Guest column by CAITLIN COPPLE

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