There was a recent article in Business Week that told the world what we’ve known for a long time. Pittsburgh, the poster child for steel mill stagnation is now a model of rust belt renewal thanks to two pivotal industries -- health care and education. Here’s a little of what the article says—including the part where they ask my opinion:
Pittsburgh offers lessons for other communities. Its leaders didn't spend a lot of energy trying to save troubled steel companies, suggesting it may be more valuable to look at new opportunities than old standbys. The city's experience also shows that persistence with new ventures is critical. "Pittsburgh people take the long view," says Paul O. Umbach, president and CEO of strategy consultant Tripp Umbach. "They do economic development the way the Steelers play football. Not flashy. You win as a team. You get the job done."
Tripp Umbach is proud to have played a role in quantifying the potential economic impact of health care and higher education, working closely with our long-time client, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Here’s the link to the full article if you are interested in learning more about post industrial Pittsburgh.
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/09_39/b4148032482240.htm