In recent U.S. Census figures, population growth for the state has been so pervasive that only three of the Tar Heel State's 100 counties posted a population loss. Areas such as Charlotte and the Research Triangle accounted for nearly half the state's population growth in the last census. North Carolina is also home to Duke University, UNC at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University. All schools have distinguished technical programs.
      Business and industry have long recognized North Carolina as a rapidly growing state for technology and education. In 2000, World Trade magazine ranked North Carolina as one of the "Top Ten Best Places to Do Business." According to a recent survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers, North Carolina ranked 6th in the nation for total venture capital investment.
      State officials are on track to get displaced manufacturing workers back to work and increase the viability of the state's work force. Gov. Mike Easley directed the state's Rapid Response Team in January to help the 530 workers affected by the closing of Matsushita Compressor in Mooresville. The RRT will work with company officials to see that employees receive the support and the training they need to find new employment.
      "The closing of Matsushita will certainly be difficult for the workers and families of Mooresville," said Gov. Easley. "We must do everything we can to get their lives back on track."