Hot enough? Summer has arrived, but I’m thinking more about the people we profile in this, our seventh edition of the Providence Business News 40 Under Forty competition.

People who are focused on the negative in Rhode Island often complain about the quality of the state’s work force. Reading the 115 40 Under Forty applications this year disproves that point of view.

But don’t take my word for it. Instead, take a quick look at these two winners, who represent much of what makes the Ocean State such an interesting place to live.

David Antoine Vonner II was a Marvel Comics fan as a child. An undergraduate artist, he eventually landed his dream job designing toys for Marvel Enterprises, including working on products from the first “Spider-Man” movie.

When Hasbro Inc. decided to expand its entertainment division and partnered with Marvel, Vonner had found the perfect opportunity. The senior product designer stays fresh by keeping his inner kid engaged and happy. Sounds like a great gig.

Ewa M. Dzwierzynski has traveled the world as a U.S. military pharmacist, serving in Germany treating soldiers injured in Iraq and Afghanistan. She went to Haiti after the 2010 earthquake to serve as a chief of pharmacy in a field hospital. And now she is the director of pharmacy at Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, the place where she was born.

Dzwierzynski is not just the face of one of the few growth industries in Rhode Island. She is an example of the benefits that accrue to the state when it attracts talented people who could be practicing their craft anywhere.

As always, PBN’s recognition programs would not be possible without sponsors, this year led by presenting sponsor, BankNewport, as well as partner sponsors, Cox Business, the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the University of Rhode Island and media sponsor, AM790. •

Mark S. Murphy

Editor