RIT in the news: We’re an asset

With all that talk about Rochester’s “brain drain” and its noncompetitive business climate, it’s easy to lose faith in the prospects for our community’s future. Is there anything that can be done to turn things around?

Certainly a change in leadership in Albany, along with recent rhetoric concerning the need to bolster upstate New York’s economy, has prompted some hope. But what’s most encouraging is evidence our community maintains valuable assets that are attracting the attention of outsiders—assets like RIT.

Last week, Animatics Corp., a producer of motion-control products, officially opened a new facility here in Rochester. According to an article in the Democrat and Chronicle, company executives chose our community to expand its Silicon Valley operations due, in large part, to RIT’s programs and expertise in microsystems engineering. “RIT has a powerful supply of high-tech individuals,” stated Animatics co-founder Robert Bigler.

The company plans to hire 20 people at its new facility over the next several years, and by establishing a co-op program with RIT, Animatics will be able to groom students for those positions. That might help clog the “drain.”

It’s important for all of us with much at stake in the future of Rochester to not lose pride in our community—and also not be afraid to boast about its potential. Everything we do at is designed to promote the amazing work happening here on campus. Yes, it helps to boost RIT’s profile, but it also goes a long way toward creating a body of work that highlights Rochester’s competitive advantage.