Technology

Technology in DFW spans the regions diverse economy. The latest data shows 14 distinct technology industries in the area, employing more than 228,000 workers or 7.9% of the region’s total job count. This employment figure is greater than the technology employment of Houston and Austin combined. The region’s technology jobs are fairly evenly divided between manufacturing and services, at 44 and 56 percent respectively.  Additionally, Texas was the second ranked “cyber-state” in 2008 according to American Electronics Association (now TechAmerica).

The many tech industries in DFW can be categorized into four core segments: high-tech manufacturing, information activities, professional/technical services, and bio-life sciences.  High-tech manufacturing industries claim 39% of all DFW technology jobs, while information activities account for 29% and professional/technology services capture 25%. The emerging bio-life science industries currently register at less than 8% of all local tech employment. While each industry generally fits well within one of the four key segments, there are overlaps. The most important effect of these overlaps is an under representation of bio-life science activities.

DFW remains quite strong in its legacy structure ranging from semiconductor manufacturing to internet services. As telecommunication completes its restructuring, the region will likely remain in the center of this industry. More importantly DFW is also recognized in critical emerging technologies including nanotech, wireless and broadband telecommunications, as well as medical, bio and life science. The greatest strength DFW brings to the new era, though, is the proven ability to reinvent itself and define the front-edge of performance in an economy that depends on new and emerging technologies

Technology Business Council

Due to the strength of the technology community in the region, the Dallas Regional Chamber established the Technology Business Council to promote the greater Dallas region as a world-class technology center and to provide the region with a vehicle to effectively assemble all parties related to its technology resources and infrastructure. Click here to learn more about the Technology Business Council.

Life Science

The DFW region is proud of its growing life science industries. The fast-growing population and solid economy provide a strong foundation for the life science community. In 2007, the number of DFW life science firms was over 470, including established pharmaceutical, medical device and early development stage companies. Click here to learn more about how the Dallas Regional Chamber supports these industries.