Hi:

Even though I work in Information Technology I am very interested in financial investments.

One of the most important factor that affects your returns on your investment when you buy mutual funds is cost.
Second most important factor is your asset allocation. Ratio of bonds and stocks.

I started researching 529 plans and Chose Utah as well.
I live in MN but our state does not offer any tax benefits.
Utah offered large number of Vanguard Funds.
Vanguard funds typically have much lower fees that most other funds.
Utah had the best selection of index funds and low fees that I was looking for.

If you don't like Utah plan look for the fees and availability of index funds to make your selection.

Cheers,