Since its beginning as a resort and health town, Colorado Springs has served as a magnet. The economy has continued to increase and attract businesses. Positioning Colorado Springs for continued high quality growth in the aerospace and electronics industries with a variety of support industries is the goal of its aggressive Economic Development Corporation and several independently formed citizens groups. The military provides the area with a stable base of economic activity, employing defense, civil service and military personnel. Colorado Springs benefits light manufactures by providing low operating costs, availability of skilled and professional laborers, and sophisticated training facilities. Colorado Springs is conducive to regional administrative centers and corporate headquarters, offering them a variety of resources. Colorado Springs ranks high nationally in studies of metropolitan areas with high- technology industries centering around manufacturing and design of semi-conductors and microelectronics. Local manufactures also have the advantage of nation’s largest Foreign Trade Zone for access to overseas markets. Colorado Springs, the state's second largest city, rests 6,035 feet above sea level at the foot of the Rampant Range and Pikes Peak in the spectacular Rocky Mountains. The mountains provide numerous recreation and relaxation spots all within easy reach of the amenities of Colorado Springs and its neighboring communities.