Massachusetts, already a key leader in the creative economy, has kicked things up a notch by creating a new creative economy director role. The position will work in the Office of Business Development as one of several industry directors responsible for key Massachusetts sectors such as biotechnology, defense, and technology.

According to the Boston Globe, beyond the direct employment provided by museums, art galleries, and design and other creative firms, the vitality of the local arts and cultural scene is increasingly viewed by development specialists as key to attracting knowledge workers expected to drive 21st century economies.

“What’s notable about this is it’s statewide and at a high-priority level,” said Anne L’Ecuyer, associate vice president of field services at Americans for the Arts, an advocacy and service group in Washington, D.C. “This is big news for our industry.”

Is this a good idea for West Virginia to consider? West Virginia already has significant per capita investment in the arts (although our private sector investment is lacking). But are we investing enough state-level focus on new economy and creative industries which are among the fastest-growing and highest-paying jobs in today’s economy?