CCST, at its core, is a collaborative organization. Deliberately inclusive from the onset, it was intended to provide a means for policymakers to tap the collective expertise of all of California's higher education institutions, as well as high-tech industry. Certainly, the state did not lack for internationally renowned S&T institutions, and could easily have turned to one or the other of them for a source of guidance on science and technology policy issues. But the collective approach which was adopted ensured a broader base of experience and a more balanced and independent presence.

Over the years CCST's networking has grown, gradually adding the voice of the federal funded laboratories - first individually in the form of several council members from one or the other of the laboratories, and eventually in the formalized addition of the six largest federal funded laboratories as CCST affiliates. The addition of Cal TAC brought the perspective of classroom teachers to its education studies. And a collaborative agreement with the National Academies has developed strongly over the past few years, with jointly hosted convocations on issues ranging from science and technology policy to education. And in Fall 2008, CCST extended its reach further to hold a joint meeting with the Royal Society of the United Kingdom.

This expanding network of connections is a vital part of CCST's mandate. Science and technology issues facing state governments today are both more numerous and more complex than in years past. The challenges have long-term consequences, such as plans made to address climate change, or involve infrastructure modifications scarcely imagined twenty years ago, such as the development of an interconnected healthcare information network. But it is precisely the breadth and complexity of these issues that demands a broader and deeper level of input, from any and all sources that can inform California's policymakers.

However, more is not always better. CCST's role is not to overwhelm policymakers, but distill the collective knowledge extant into a form that is independent, usable, and accessible. In recent years, CCST has helped identify the California-specific ramifications of reports by the National Academies, and continues to find venues to make information accessible. The newly conceived Science and Technology Policy Fellows program is one such venture - the first time a state has successfully implemented a science and technology based fellowship program. CCST appreciates the advice and experience provided by the long-standing AAAS Congressional Fellows program as CCST designed a program specific to California's needs and structure.

The logistical challenges California faces are, in many ways, more severe than they have been in years. But CCST remains, if anything, better equipped than ever to advise California policymakers.