Perry Wong is the director of research at the Milken Institute. He is an expert on regional economics, development and econometric forecasting. He designs, manages and performs research on labor and workforce issues, the relationship between technology and economic development, and trade and industry, with a focus on policy development and implementation in both leading and disadvantaged regions. His work extends to the international arena, including regional economic development in southern China, Taiwan and elsewhere in Asia. His most recent research has focused on economic issues for California, including pension shortfalls and debunking the myth that high-skilled workers are leaving the state. Wong is in his second stint at the Institute; he was senior vice president and senior economist for economic strategy at City National Bank from March 2011 to April 2012. Previously he was a senior economist and director of regional forecasting at Global Insight Inc. Wong received a master's degree in economics from Temple University.