The Executive Exchange: Inside the Investment
CEO Conversations Behind the $21B Wave Powering Pittsburgh’s Future
Pittsburgh is leading a new era of innovation, infrastructure, and energy transformation — and the world is taking notice.
The Allegheny Conference on Community Development presents The Executive Exchange, a high-impact video series featuring candid conversations between ACCD CEO Stefani Pashman and the executives behind more than $21 billion in private-sector investment flowing into Southwestern Pennsylvania.
Through these 10–15 minute virtual interviews, industry leaders share why they’re betting big on the Pittsburgh region—from energy transition and AI innovation to grid modernization and data infrastructure—and what gives them confidence in its future.
Inside Each Conversation…
Each episode offers a front-row seat to the thinking of global and national leaders shaping the region’s economic landscape.
Hear directly from the executives driving transformative projects as they discuss:
- Why Pittsburgh stood out for investment—talent, cost advantages, infrastructure, and partnerships
- The bipartisan collaboration powering progress
- Lessons learned and advice for other business leaders considering the region
Episodes
Episode 2: First Energy – Transforming Pennsylvania: FirstEnergy’s $15 Billion Investment
John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, and Stephanie Pashman, CEO of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, discuss a groundbreaking $15 billion investment in Pennsylvania’s energy infrastructure. Discover how this initiative aims to modernize and strengthen the state’s transmission and distribution networks, create new jobs, and foster economic growth. Learn about the strategic partnerships and innovative approaches driving this transformation.
Episode 1: Duquesne Light Company– Powering the Future: Kevin Walker on Energy Innovation
Kevin Walker, President and CEO of Duquesne Light Company (DLC), talks with Conference CEO Stefani Pashman about how DLC is driving economic growth and innovation in the Pittsburgh region with strategic investments and energy solutions. Learn about the challenges and opportunities in the energy sector and how they impact the region’s future.
About the Series
The Executive Exchange builds on the momentum of the Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit, which showcased Pittsburgh’s growing role as a national magnet for transformative investment. By sharing these authentic executive perspectives, the Allegheny Conference and the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance aim to inspire confidence, collaboration, and continued investment in the region’s future.