As reported by Larry Avila in the Appleton Post-Crescent, technology professionals throughout Wisconsin see a light at the end of the tunnel through today’s slumping economy.

The news comes as a result of a comprehensive survey of IT professionals conducted by the Wisconsin Technology Council, WisBusiness.com and the Lumis Group, a Madison-based marketing company.  Of the 277 tech companies surveyed, 45 percent believed the economy would improve in the next year, compared to only 18.7 percent who thought it would get worse.

“There does seem to be some sense of optimism among the respondents,” said Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council. “Depending on which sector you examine, most are optimistic about their future.”

According to a WTC estimate, Wisconsin’s technology sector represents a $1 billion industry. TechAmerica, a national technology industry monitor, estimates Wisconsin is home to approximately 85,000 technology professionals.

Wired Wisconsin recognizes the importance of fostering a vibrant and robust technology industry in the state. As the tech sector continues to grow, so does the value of learning from technology professionals. Surveys like this—led by Still at the WTC—help educate our state leaders from the new drivers of the Wisconsin economy.