On August 28, 2001, Dr. Chris Johnson attended a press conference conducted by Utah Governor Mike Leavitt. The governor launched a new program to generate business activity and investment in Utah's high technology ecosystems. Each ecosystem consists of academic researchers, business leaders, anchor companies, venture capitalists, and professional service providers who collectively promote business activity. Dr. Johnson spoke at this press conference with regard to the multidisciplinary nature of ongoing research at the SCI Institute.

Following the press conference, Dr. Johnson flew to Silicon Valley, sitting across from Governor Leavitt while they talked extensively about Utah's technological future. When they arrived in San Jose, they first participated in a press conference at the Technology Museum, announcing the Utah/Silicon Valley technology alliance. Dr. Johnson and Governor Leavitt then met with a group of Silicon Valley venture capitalists, collaborating to fund joint projects. Their visit to San Jose concluded with a visit to Pixar where former University of Utah graduate, Dr. Edwin E.Catmull, president of Pixar, gave them a tour of the facility. Dr. Catmull, co-founder of Pixar and chief technical officer, is a UITA Hall of Fame honoree, and serves on the University of Utah College of Engineering External Advisory Board. UITA stands for Utah Information Technology Association. For more information about UITA programs and membership, see the UITA Website.

Utah's Governor Mike Leavitt, visited the SCI Institute.