America is entering a dynamic era of industrial growth driven by surging electricity demand, rapid AI expansion, advanced manufacturing, and supply chain reshoring. This summit explores why Pennsylvania – and Southwestern Pennsylvania in particular – is uniquely suited to anchor this transformation. Attendees will gain insights into how advanced nuclear energy can serve as a foundation for baseload power and industrial expansion, as well as how regional assets can drive new opportunities across the broader supply chain.

Through targeted keynotes and panel sessions, the summit addresses how local manufacturers, automated production capabilities, and strategic investments can support the nation’s rising energy and infrastructure needs. You will hear practical perspectives on what it takes for Pennsylvania and Southwestern Pennsylvania to win in this era—from leveraging energy assets to building workforce, innovation, and commercialization ecosystems. Join us to connect with peers and participate in a forward-looking conversation on securing our region’s industrial future.

The event will feature speakers from the U.S. Department of Energy, Westinghouse, Pittsburgh Technical Consultants, North American Forgemasters, Carnegie Foundry, System One, FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, Wabtec, Kennametal, and more.

Program Schedule Highlights

8:00 AM: Doors Open – Breakfast & Networking

9:00 AM: Welcome Remarks

• Stefani Pashman, CEO – Allegheny Conference
  Leroy Ball, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors – Koppers, Inc. and Incoming Board Chair

9:15 AM: Opening Keynote: America’s Next Industrial Economy

• Rick Christensen, Associate Deputy Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Reactors – U.S. Department of Energy

10:00 AM: Panel Discussion: Nuclear as the Foundation for Growth

• Brian Anderson – System One (Moderator)
• 
  Alex Charlton – Constellation
• 
  David Kruegel – Vistra
• 
  Sola Talabi – Pittsburgh Technical
• 
  Michael Valore – Westinghouse APX

11:00 AM: Panel Discussion: Building the Industrial Supply Chain

• 
  Joshua Brittingham – Curtiss-Wright Corporation
• 
  Brian Hoover – North American Forgemasters
• 
  Christine King – Idaho National Laboratory (Moderator)
• 
  Cynthia Oakes – Ebara Elliott Energy
• 
  Michael Valore – Westinghouse APX

12:00 PM: Leadership Luncheon & Fireside Conversation

• Grid, AI and Growth: What the RETI Consortium Means for Regional Industry

1:30 PM: Panel Discussion: Positioned to Win: The Playbook for Competitive Advantage

• 
  Claire Avett – CORE POWER
• 
  Keith Creasy – Wabtec
• 
  Rich Fruehauf – Carnegie Foundry (Moderator)
• 
  John Hawkins – FirstEnergy Pennsylvania
• Tom Hudak – Kennametal

2:30 PM: Closing Remarks: America’s Competitive Moment

2:45 PM: Coffee & Networking