The head of the State Economic Development Department is preparing to leave for a new job, optimistic that Missouri’s economy is on the upswing. Joe Driskill says the tough times experienced during 2001 and 2002 were overcome – at least in part – by stronger economic activity in 2003. But he cautions it’s too early to celebrate. Driskill warns several factors could stop that improvement in its tracks. Among them: another terrorist attack similar to the September 11th tragedy. But he’s confident – barring a major attack – that the economy should keep up the momentum that has started this year. In a couple of days, Driskill becomes Executive Director of the Missouri Technology Corporation, which helps move laboratory research to the marketplace. He’ll be replaced as Economic Development chief by Kelvin Simmons, who previously served as Chairman of the Public Service Commission.