So the 4th (or 5th) largest economy, by itself, is not that impressive? What's it take?
Yes, we are a very populous state, almost 40M or 12% of the nation. There's a reason for it. We are geographically large and diverse. Like much of America, population is concentrated in a few large areas, LA and Bay Areas.
Our largest industries include technology, agriculture, film and television, travel and tourism, and the service sector. California's economy is highly diversified, with significant contributions from manufacturing, healthcare, and construction as well.
In Silicon Valley, about 30% of the workforce works directly in tech. Of course tech drives incredible economic opportunity in the area. Heck, the Valley even has the most productive automotive plant in the nation.
There is so much more to the Golden State.