Leonardo plans innovation day

The Leonardo will host "A Day of Innovation" on Thursday to officially launch Utah's Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development, or WIRED, initiative.

WIRED has received national recognition and more than $7 million in funding for a transformational approach to talent development in Utah's life sciences from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Utah received the funds to further develop programs designed to create a pipeline of highly skilled talent for the state's biotechnology and biomanufacturing industry.

As part of Thursday's activities, USDOL/ETA Assistant Secretary Emily Stover DeRocco and Deputy Assistant Secretary Mason Bishop will tour facilities at Salt Lake Community College, Jordan Technical Institute, Granite Technical Institute and Nelson Labs and visit with Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr.

The pair also will meet with leadership from the WIRED Partnership Alliance, which includes the Governor's Office of Economic Development, Department of Workforce Services, Salt Lake Community College, Granite Technical Institute, The Leonardo, ASTEC Science Camps, Utah Science Center and USTAR.

The day will conclude with an evening reception of networking for industry and governmental officials. The reception is open to business and community leaders in the life sciences industry. Details are available by e-mailing TAPintoUtah@utah.gov or calling 801-538-8880 or 801-531-9800.