Gov. Linda Lingle leaves today on a trip to New Hampshire, where she will meet with the inventor of the Segway scooter and discuss ideas to promote innovation in science and technology in Hawai'i.

Lingle, in a speech last month after being inaugurated for her second term, said she wanted to shift the state's economy away from land development and toward innovation. The governor is expected to preview some of her ideas leading up to her State of the State speech this month, but they likely involve encouraging math and science education among young people and incentives to develop new technology in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, the environment and ocean resources.

Lingle will speak with inventor Dean Kamen, who is known for the Segway two-wheel personal transporter, and attend the start of his annual high school robotics competition this weekend in Manchester, N.H. Teams from Punahou School and Waiakea High School in Hilo will compete regionally for a chance to go the championship in Atlanta in April.

"Innovations are intended to make someone better off, and the succession of many innovations grows the whole economy," said Linda Smith, Lingle's senior policy adviser, who is at work on the governor's initiative.

Lingle also will spend personal time in California before returning to the Islands early next week.

Reach Derrick DePledge at ddepledge@honoluluadvertiser.com.