2024 Pittsburgh Smart 50 Awards recognize region’s top leadership

 

The Pittsburgh Smart 50 Awards recognize the top executives of the smartest companies in the Greater Pittsburgh region for their ability to effectively build and lead successful organizations. Here’s who we honored this year:

Honorees listed in alphabetical order by last name

 

With a rich legacy spanning 22 years, Logix Guru stands as a stalwart and trusted business partner known for delivering cutting-edge IT staffing solutions that exceed client expectations. Renowned as a premier IT and non-IT staffing service provider, the company’s expertise encompasses contract, contract-to-hire and direct-hire solutions. Logix Guru meticulously selects top-tier talent using rigorous screening and technical assessments.

Under the leadership of CEO S. Singh Ajmani, the company operates from strategic locations in Pittsburgh and India, supporting major project bids, navigating complex pricing models and generating cost benefits for its valued customers. The company’s recognition as a Small Diverse Business by the Pennsylvania Department of General Services and certification by the National Minority Supplier Development Council underlines its commitment to diversity and excellence.

 

A spin-off of Carnegie Mellon University’s (CMU’s) Robotics Institute, ProtoInnovations has over 15 years of experience developing novel technologies that focus on high-performance, robust prototype robots, autonomy software, mechatronics development and field testing for space, defense and commercial applications.

ProtoInnovations Founder and CEO Dimitrios Apostolopoulos is a Senior Systems Scientist at the Robotics Institute of CMU and the National Robotics Engineering Center. He has led recognized robotic programs since 1998. His work focuses on using robotics for discovery and exploration and as a workforce for hazardous duty or demanding applications. He leads the research and development of autonomous robots for mining noble metals, novel robotic mechanisms for all-terrain mobility and new methods for designing and prototyping unmanned ground vehicles.

 

Established over 130 years ago, Irwin Car and Equipment stands as a testament to American manufacturing and engineering prowess. Under the leadership of William Baker for the past 31 years, the company has experienced significant transformation. Now operating as the Irwin Group of Companies and specializing in heavy-duty material handling equipment, the company has been the backbone of many industries since its founding.

Baker’s vision has been instrumental in molding Irwin Car into an enterprise of multiple niche business units across several states. This strategic diversification mitigates risks associated with market cyclicality and fuels consistent growth. His proactive approach has led to a string of acquisitions, including Gray Manufacturing Industries of Hornell, NY, which has bolstered the company’s industry standing in the transit and rail markets.

 

Oral & Facial Surgery of Pittsburgh (OFS) offers a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery at two state-of-the-art locations. President Richard Bauer, DMD, MD, is a native of the Pittsburgh area and a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh Medical School and School of Dental Medicine. He completed a six-year Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Bauer has a passion for giving back to his profession through leadership within professional associations. He also serves as a consultant for several medical device companies and has lectured and performed hands-on training courses throughout the United States and internationally. Bauer was recently invited to join the McGuire Institute, a highly recognized nonprofit organization with the mission of providing clinical research at the highest levels of skill and integrity.

 

One word perfectly sums up Jennifer Bertetto: dedication. It is evident in every aspect of her life. While in high school, Bertetto began as a Valley News Dispatch sports stringer. After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh, she became a sales rep for the Tribune-Review’s burgeoning Pittsburgh market expansion in 1997.

During almost three decades in media and publishing, Bertetto’s dedication took her from sales manager to major accounts director, advertising director, vice president and chief operating officer. In 2015, she became president and CEO of Trib Total Media.

Bertetto continues to look ahead. In 2016, she helped launch 535media. As a News Media Alliance board member representing over 2,000 worldwide news organizations, she has her finger on the pulse of the digital evolution of the news industry.

 

Founder and CEO Nisha Blackwell founded Knotzland in 2014. Spurred by a passion for building an environmentally friendly business, she began sourcing high-quality textile discards and repurposing them to create bespoke bow ties.

Blackwell has cultivated a powerhouse up-cycling business that has rescued more than 7,200 pounds of textile waste. A self-taught seamstress, she also realized the importance of educational opportunities. Knotzland trains and works with a dynamic network of women in the community, inspiring them to chase their dreams of entrepreneurship. This hyper-local production model has allowed the company to scale and ensure that each stylish bow tie is made by hand. Sewists earn an average of $54 per hour, resulting in an annual investment of $40,000 into the economic well-being of the company’s Sewcial Network.

 

Sybil Wellness Creator and Founder Molly Blasier was challenged with serious, permanent injuries after a car accident at age 23. Determined to explore beneficial pathways to a healthful recovery, she discovered several alternative self-care therapies, inspiring a life-long reverence for holistic wellness.

Sybil Wellness is revolutionizing the health and wellness industry through its commitment to holistic well-being and cutting-edge supplements. By incorporating advanced ingredients that promote cellular health and longevity, Blasier ensures that each product supports the body’s natural functions and enhances vitality. The company’s innovative approach combines scientific research with a deep understanding of holistic health principles, resulting in highly effective and thoughtfully formulated supplements. Sybil Wellness is dedicated to helping individuals achieve lasting health and wellness through products that reflect the highest standards of quality and innovation.

 

ACA Group is the leading financial services governance, risk and compliance adviser. For over 20 years, the company has empowered clients to launch, grow and protect their businesses. ACA’s global team of 1,250 employees includes former regulators and practitioners who have a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape.

Steve Blossom, Global Head of Managed Services and former CIO, exemplifies exceptional leadership in driving innovation and community impact. Since joining ACA in 2018, Blossom’s technical acumen, customer focus and professional expertise have made him one of the most respected and valued members of the ACA team. He is a vital contributor to revenue expansion and employee growth, bringing a strategic vision that has elevated ACA’s capabilities and set the company apart as a leader in the financial services industry.

 

Madison Campbell is a respected health care and social entrepreneur focusing on supporting sexual assault survivors. As CEO of Leda Health, she is helping ensure that survivors are believed — a critical step to assist women in achieving healing.

Leda Health offers breakthrough products and services for collecting evidence in the comfort of home after a rape has occurred, including in-person sexual health and related courses, and 24/7 professional nursing phone support. Campbell’s intuitive kits come with easy-to-understand directions and are mailed directly to a lab to preserve the chain of custody.

A change agent, Campbell has focused on making a positive difference for women in the United States and worldwide. Her professional and personal journey showcase expertise, leadership and a deep commitment to making a positive impact for all women.

 

Logan Carmichael exemplifies what it means to run a thriving organization through his people-centric leadership of the Pittsburgh Water. As Chief People and Culture Officer, Carmichael has transformed PWSA’s human resources department into a strategic partner that aligns with the organization’s goals.

Carmichael’s accomplishments include the implementation of an HR department mission, guiding principles and strategic focus. This initiative has instilled a sense of purpose and dedication, ensuring that HR actions support PWSA’s long-term vision. In addition, he has been pivotal in establishing HR functions that better optimize the organization, including a Training and Development team to support employee development. His intuitive leadership goes beyond simply engaging employees. Instead, he focuses on the manager-employee relationship to strengthen an organization-wide sense of belonging and trust.

 

Mark Caskey founded Steel Nation Buildings in 2008. Early in the Marcellus Shale boom, he visited one of the first compressor stations and was appalled by the noise levels. Drawing upon his years of experience erecting steel buildings for the coal industry, Caskey saw an opportunity to serve the oil and gas industry with specialty-designed steel buildings that are cool, quiet and safe.

Caskey was instrumental in leading the design-build process for Steel Nation, overseeing the construction management of energy-related projects. He has led the team through thousands of projects for leading mid-stream, gas processing and transmission energy companies. Caskey’s contributions to the oil and gas industry have been invaluable. Additionally, Steel Nation has expanded through diversification and employee acquisition to serve the emerging water/wastewater and health care industries.

 

Christina Cassotis is CEO of Allegheny County Airport Authority (ACAA), which operates Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) and Allegheny County Airport (AGC). She joined ACAA in January 2015 and has become a fixture in the region and global aviation industry as a dynamic, people-focused leader.

PIT experienced record growth since US Airways abandoned its hub, recruiting multiple domestic and international carriers. This has directly impacted Pittsburgh’s economy through air service additions, including nonstop service to London via British Airways, Reykjavik, Iceland, via Icelandair and domestic additions to the West Coast.

Cassotis is also redefining the role airports play in passenger experience. Everything she does is focused on people. Her goal is to change the aviation industry to make it more efficient, resilient and focused on being in the business of people.

 

As CEO of 412 Food Rescue, Alyssa Cholodofsky steers an organization that is significantly reducing food waste and hunger in Pittsburgh and beyond. Founded in 2015, it is the fastest-growing food recovery organization in the U.S. Powered by a network of over 22,000 volunteers, 412 Food Rescue has redistributed 31 million pounds of food in the Pittsburgh area and is scaling food recovery in 47 counties across North America with its innovative Food Rescue Hero® technology.

Joining 412 Food Rescue in 2024, Cholodofsky has taken the helm at a crucial juncture as the organization evolves from a startup to leading a national transformation on approaching food waste and hunger.

As Cholodofsky builds momentum toward 412 Food Rescue’s 10th anniversary, she is connecting to new partnerships and diversifying revenue sources.

 

Rocco Cozza, founder and managing partner of the Cozza Law Group, is a sought-after business attorney. He holds a B.A. from Washington & Jefferson College, an M.B.A. from Waynesburg University and his J.D. from Duquesne University School of Law. Since 2003, Cozza has worked with businesses, entrepreneurs, athletes and entertainers to solve business and legal challenges. The firm advises on entity formations, contract negotiations, commercial transactions and disputes, mergers and acquisitions, employment law and intellectual property. It also provides comprehensive outside general counsel services across various sectors. Cozza works with clients who prioritize honesty and compassion, proving an impressive client list can be built on ethical values. This approach has led to years of successful legal representation in Pittsburgh, with expansion into New York City and Nashville.

 

Executive Vice President Deborah Cunningham has been with Federated Hermes for over 40 years. Starting as a performance analyst in 1981, she has grown extensively with the company. As CIO of Global Liquidity Markets, Cunningham oversees Federated’s $586 billion in money market assets and manages its domestic taxable and tax-exempt liquidity portfolios, and offshore liquidity products.

This year, Federated Hermes celebrated 50 years of money market innovation, which began with the launch of the first mutual fund to include “money market” in its name, an asset class that has now grown to $6 trillion.

Managing the firm’s liquidity products for over 30 years, Cunningham has played an instrumental role in growing Federated Hermes’ money market assets while offering clients innovation, creativity and experience navigating various market conditions.

 

 

 

CEO and Founder Daniel Desko has been instrumental in driving Echelon Risk + Cyber to the forefront of the cybersecurity industry. His leadership has fortified the company’s cybersecurity position and IT risk advisory, leading to substantial advancements in treating security and privacy as fundamental human rights.

Under Desko’s visionary guidance, Echelon secured a prestigious partnership with the Detroit Pistons, underscoring the company’s commitment to protecting high-stakes environments. Additionally, he is steering Echelon to develop an AI risk management service, address the emerging challenges of AI integration in business and set Echelon apart as an innovator in the industry.

His strategic foresight has resulted in triple growth year over year, a clear indicator of Echelon’s expanding market presence and the effectiveness of its tailored cybersecurity solutions.

 

Accion Labs Inc. is an innovation engineering company that leverages emerging technologies, a range of accelerators and a field-tested, gated innovation delivery process to create transformational software. Under the leadership of Kinesh Doshi, Group CEO, the organization has fostered a culture of continuous learning and innovation, principles that have been the foundation of Accion’s success.

Doshi strongly believes that learning at Accion Labs is not just a key responsibility area but is deeply embedded in the organizational culture. The company’s commitment to continuous learning is exemplified through Accion University, which focuses on upskilling in emerging technologies such as Machine Learning and Generative AI, and recognizes that competitive advantage is closely linked to the ability to integrate new knowledge into solutions and products.

 

PiovanGroup North America, a merging of IPEG, Inc. and Piovan businesses, serves as the regional headquarters for the Italian-based company. PiovanGroup is a global leader in designing and manufacturing industrial automation systems that automate the storage, transport and processing of polymers, plastic powders and food ingredients. Situated in Cranberry Township, it employs approximately 650 individuals, more than half located in Western PA.

CEO North America John Erkert is responsible for PiovanGroup’s North America Region and has led group companies for over 29 years. The company has developed many innovative products, including AI-controlled smart equipment, especially for its Conair brand. PiovanGroup continues to be a leader in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and supports the circular economy as evidenced by its contributions to the recycling industry and significant use of recycled materials.

 

COE Chairman and CEO J.D. Ewing exemplifies what it means to run a successful organization by putting people first. He understands that people are the heart of the company’s success and ensures they are cared for through meaningful engagement, comprehensive benefits and a genuine understanding of their needs.

Ewing is committed to fostering innovation by continuously advancing automation, product development and marketing strategies that keep COE at the forefront of the industry. His strategic business moves are always aimed at propelling the company forward, resulting in sustained success in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Under Ewing’s leadership, innovation has permeated every aspect of the organization. He has cultivated a team that isn’t afraid to think creatively and pursue bold new ideas, ensuring that COE remains at the cutting edge of the industry.

 

Sreekar Gadde, Managing Partner for BlueTree Venture Capital, leverages his engineering, law and business background to identify and analyze early-stage companies for potential investment opportunities. He assists early- and mid-stage management teams in developing intellectual property (IP) strategies that complement their business goals. Before joining BlueTree, he was an IP litigator and IP prosecutor at two top law firms, Ropes and Gray and Sterne Kessler, and was Assistance Chief IP Counsel for Dynamics, Inc.

Gadde’s experience spans various fields, including AI (Edge Case Research, Aspinity, TalkMeUp and Ariel Precision Medicine), life sciences (Augment Therapy, Lindy BioSciences and CytoAgents), data analytics (Real Time Intelligence and BlastPoint) and consumer goods (Aeronics, Anglr and Crafty Counter). He presents at conferences to help investors analyze IP strategy and companies improve IP spending efficiency.

 

CEO Johnathan Garlow is a visionary who strategically operates Ford Office Technologies with a mission to help businesses thrive by delivering cutting-edge office technology, solutions and unparalleled customer experiences. He has procured the knowledge and skills of some of the top talent in the region. Garlow is continually studying the industry’s future and advancements in the office technology space. He brings new ideas to the table and holds his leadership team accountable for incorporating the latest technology into the existing business fold, providing the ability to streamline processes and increase efficiencies throughout the organization.

Garlow is laser-focused on ensuring that Ford Office Technologies is the region’s premier option for all companies seeking the best technology solutions, unparalleled service and a relationship with a partner that wants to see them thrive.

 

Citadel Construction Group is a general contracting firm specializing in preconstruction, construction management and design-build services. Under CEO Jeffrey Giuggio and President Anthony Wincko, the company has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Leveraging cutting-edge technology like Procore and HoloBuilder, Citadel has expanded its construction projects into five additional states. This enables the company to oversee projects nationwide, receive daily reports and conduct virtual walkthroughs.

Citadel’s success in recruiting and retaining top talent is noteworthy. Their customer-centric approach has fueled rapid growth, primarily driven by repeat business and client recommendations. With plans to further integrate advanced technologies and expand their footprint, they are poised to tackle even more ambitious projects. Their vision for the future encompasses building structures and lasting relationships with clients, partners and the communities they serve.

 

Ryan Green is co-founder and CEO of Gridwise, a delivery driver and ride-share assistant app that helps gig economy drivers maximize their earnings and track all of their gig work in one place. Since launching in 2017, Gridwise has raised $20.4 million in funding. Led by Crosslink Capital, Autotech Ventures and others, their latest Series A raised $12.7 million.

With over 200,000 active drivers nationwide, Gridwise empowers those in the gig economy through demand insights, activity and finance tracking, and a marketplace of gig worker benefits. Before Gridwise, Green served as an active-duty Naval Officer after graduating from the United States Naval Academy. Following his time in the military, he worked the FX trading desk at PNC, executing multi-million trades for clients.

 

Gupta Permold is a world-class contract manufacturer, touching product lines in countless industries. The company was founded in 1980, focusing on aluminum castings. Anil Gupta joined in 2005. He started in sales, a role that prepared him well when he became CEO in 2012 because he understood marketing and consumer needs. Often, Gupta says, customer feedback inspires novel ideas and agile marketing. For example, DiamondLife Gear is the world’s largest online metal pegboard retailer. The company now offers pegboards in 48 colors and sizes in response to customer suggestions.

Continually evolving, the company is known for its innovation. Developing new products that leverage successful manufacturing processes has been critical to its success. Gupta understands products can have short shelf lives. He maintains, “You must reinvent your business every 10-15 years.” 

 

One of the most recognized brands in the world, Zippo was founded in the fall of 1932 by George G. Blaisdell in Bradford, Pennsylvania. Since then, the company has manufactured over 600 million windproof lighters.

Donald Hall serves as a member of the board of Zipcorp and its subsidiaries. In February 2024, he was promoted to CFO and executive vice president of the Enterprise Project Management Office to drive strategic plans. Hall has been instrumental in corporate strategic planning, product and market diversification, and development of the Asia Pacific market. He is recognized as a strong and effective business partner across diverse industries, skilled in building and motivating high-impact teams driven to grow both the top and bottom lines while optimizing working capital.

 

Jennifer Honig is the founder and CEO of Techstra Solutions, celebrating its 13th year as a certified woman-owned IT services and consulting firm. Techstra Solutions provides strategy, technology and implementation support to some of the largest global companies undergoing digital transformation.

Honig is a technology veteran with over 30 years of global management consulting and market development experience. A respected voice at the C-suite and executive levels, she bridges the gap between business objectives and technological execution. Her ability to translate complex market dynamics into actionable insights has empowered organizations to unlock new revenue streams and optimize customer engagement. Known for her innovative mindset, Honig thrives on charting new territories to drive business growth, pushing the boundaries of convention, empowering women and steering transformative change within organizations.

 

CEO Kristy Knichel has grown Knichel Logistics from a small integrated marketing communications firm to a $100 million multimodal provider. Knichel’s work has garnered recognition in the logistics and transportation industry through prestigious awards and customer referrals. Innovative strategies such as establishing relationships between the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association and the Transportation Intermediaries Association have created footholds in other market segments and broadened the scope of Knichel’s service offerings to include truckload and less than truckload brokerage. Resources have been allocated to source and retain talented freight agents nationwide to grow the company in underdeveloped segments such as government services. Knichel has also increased the company’s volume and revenue over the past five years by focusing on a sales and operating agent program.

 

LKICORP® has made significant strides in providing cutting-edge technologies and precise engineering services, setting itself apart in a highly competitive market. The company’s commitment to innovation and excellence is evident in its tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of various businesses. The ability to deliver customized, cloud-native products and integrated solutions demonstrates his adaptability and forward-thinking approach.

LKICORP® has reached significant milestones that showcase its growth and impact, achieving a 68.9 percent revenue increase and expanding its client base to 96 customers since its launch. The company’s impressive performance is proof of its strategic vision and effective execution.

Additionally, CEO Luke Kriger has been recognized with a 2024 Global Recognition Award for his outstanding contributions to the field of software development and engineering.

 

The Baldwin-Whitehall School District is a K-12 regional district in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Led by Superintendent of Schools Randal Lutz, the system serves over 4,500 students across three elementary schools, one middle school, one high school and one cyber academy. With an annual operating budget of $80 million, the district boasts the lowest per-student cost of all 42 regional districts. Additionally, the district receives less state and federal funding than the statewide average, with more local dollars supporting the programs and facilities.

Only two percent of the district’s students attend charter schools, nearly four times lower than the typical PA school district. Diverse programming ensures that education and community are accessible to all. The student population is expected to grow 24 percent over the next decade.

 

CEO and Founder Dave Mastovich runs MASSolutions with a sharp focus on continuous growth, innovation and clear communication. As the company celebrates its 20th anniversary, his ability to adapt and lead during shifting market dynamics has never been more evident.

MASSolutions’ core philosophy is at the heart of its success: Think, Adapt, Innovate, Communicate, Grow. These core values shape how Mastovich guides the company and builds lasting relationships with clients. Under his leadership, MASSolutions has consistently innovated by developing strategic marketing and storytelling solutions that help organizations grow and reshape how they engage with employees and customers. His latest book, No Bullsh!t Marketing, further cements his role as a thought leader, offering practical insights into driving referrals and sustainable growth.

 

Founder and CEO James Mauler is evolving Cadnetics and setting new benchmarks for the industry. Under his guidance, the company has grown from a regional firm to a nationally recognized technology and services leader in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations industry.

Mauler’s leadership is about more than numbers and expansion; it is about strategic foresight, a passion for innovation and an unwavering commitment to sustainability. From the outset, he recognized the importance of adapting to the rapidly changing needs of the market. Mauler seeks to ensure that Cadnetics delivers consistent value to its clients while maintaining high quality and client satisfaction standards. His strategic vision has ensured that Cadnetics thrives in an increasingly competitive landscape. This success is setting new standards for the industry to follow.

 

Blueberry Pharmacy: Welcome to different. Led by Founder and Manager Kyle McCormick, Blueberry Pharmacy sets itself apart from the rest by providing access to low-cost medications without the need for insurance. With optional membership programs available to fit patients’ needs, the savings people see on their medications are substantial.

Blueberry Pharmacy helps patients obtain generic medications at a fair price while reducing government spending. McCormick’s cost-plus model offers fully transparent pricing that charges patients the cost of medication acquisition plus a $10 service fee.

A price-checker built into the website is accessible for anyone to see real-time medication costs without the need to have a prescription processed. McCormick also offers a service to other pharmacies wishing to adopt his cost-plus method.

 

Coen Markets Inc. traces its roots back to 2000 when Charlie McIlvaine and his brother, Andy, bought Coen Oil. While part owner, McIlvaine continued his investment banking and private equity career. After growing the business into a sizable company, he became chairman and CEO in 2014. “One of the big messages for our industry is this: We have to embrace our reality. Until we do, we can’t move forward,” he says.

Today, Coen Markets has highly experienced leadership and tech servicing teams offering customers a full suite of products and services for fuel dispensing and equipment, point-of systems, and fuel tank/line/pad construction and installation. The company’s mission is to provide unquestionably superior professional service. Its tech team offers expert installation and servicing capabilities, including EMV upgrades.

 

Led by CEO Jessica Minkus, Bookminders provides outsourced accounting and bookkeeping services for small businesses and nonprofit organizations. The company showcases innovation, cultivating and launching novel products, services and solutions that drive transformative change. Established in 1991, the company pioneered an employee-centric, remote-first approach that remains foundational to its operations. Despite the increasing demand for return-to-office, Bookminders stands firm in its commitment to employees and sustainability, expanding remote opportunities rather than retreating.

In an era where hybrid and virtual work arrangements often fall short of expectations, Bookminders fosters a flexible and transparent culture that champions hybrid and remote work, and creates an environment where flexibility and work-life balance are the norm. The company successfully attracts top talent who champion the workplace as one of the best in the industry.

 

Under the leadership of Owner Shawn Nairn, ACORx has emerged as a trailblazer in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the realm of elder care. Nairn’s remarkable achievements include developing and successfully implementing ACORx’s unique product offerings, including the company’s proprietary software and Medication Adherence Packages (MAPs). Meticulously designed to simplify daily medication management and adherence, MAPs are filled at the pharmacy and hand-delivered to each patient.

By addressing a prevalent eldercare issue, Nairn has positioned ACORx as a leader in the industry that is making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals. Beyond product innovation, his management style is fostering a thriving organizational culture. Nairn is deeply committed to employee retention, creating an environment where team members feel valued and motivated.

 

Ascender is a hub that helps entrepreneurs start and build companies through education, mentorship and community coworking. Executive Director Nadyli Nunez is steering the company’s vision and direction, empowering the team, overseeing day-to-day operations, fundraising and building strategic partnerships. She cares deeply about creating opportunities and pathways for others to realize their potential.

Nunez’s journey embodies the resilience and determination inspired by her mother’s hope for the American Dream. The daughter of Dominican immigrant parents, she grew up in Harlem (NYC) and knows firsthand the potential of internships to change people’s trajectories. Nunez dedicates her time to helping others launch and grow their business. She also sits on the prestigious Partner4WorkAdvisory Board, the workforce development organization that connects funding, expertise and opportunities to develop a thriving workforce in the Pittsburgh region.

 

eNGINE is a Pittsburgh-based solutions firm specializing in building technical and cyber security teams. Principal Ryan Osterberg learned from some of the best and brightest in the industry before founding eNGINE in 2017. His growth mindset distinguishes his team as leaders in Pittsburgh’s IT/Tech Consulting and Placement space.

Osterberg is uncompromising in his belief that barriers are merely challenges to overcome, fostering a culture of creativity and teamwork. Under his leadership, the company has become one of Pittsburgh’s premier locally owned and operated tech consulting firms, serving Fortune 500, high-growth and early-stage customers.

Osterberg’s commitments to growth and innovation stretch beyond the four walls of his firm’s culture. eNGINE’s customers also look to him to develop their human capital strategies.

 

General Carbide Corporation (GCC) was founded in 1968 by Premo J. Pappafava, Mona Pappafava-Ray’s father. She began working at the company the day after she graduated from Carnegie Mellon University. After working in every area of the family business, Pappafava-Ray was appointed president of GCC in 1997.

Upon the death of her father in 2002, she became CEO. It was evident from the start that Pappafava-Ray’s progressive ideas and commitment to excellence would steer GCC to become one of the leaders in the industry. Never afraid to take a risk, her confidence has carried over to the workforce, and the team believes in her ability to lead them into the future. Over the past two decades, GCC has produced innovative parts and become a leader in entirely new markets.

 

JWF Industries designs, manufactures and integrates metal-centric products. The company is dedicated to its employees, communities and global customers in the defense, energy and commercial industries. Under the leadership of President and CEO William Polacek, JWF Industries has become a pillar in the Johnstown community and surrounding areas.

Polacek founded Johnstown Welding and Fabrication after acquiring his father’s welding business, Johnny’s Welding, in 1987. Years of diversification led to a name change — JWF Industries — providing opportunity for growth into new capabilities and markets.

Polacek exemplifies the values he was raised with and believes that “Faith-Family-Country” are essential components to a successful life. JWF Industries adopted the term as the company mantra. Polacek ensures these values run top-down, enabling all employees to be part of the organization’s vision.

 

Pinnacle Consulting & Recruitment has always been driven to deliver innovation and growth in the Greater Pittsburgh region. As CEO, Colin Powell is proud to lead a team of amazing executive recruiters helping companies find the best CFOs in Pittsburgh. For over 20 years, Powell has carefully cultivated a network of Pittsburgh’s most influential businesses and finance leaders, ensuring ample support for any CFO search.

After working as a Big 4 audit manager in the corporate accounting sphere, Powell founded Pinnacle to guide organizations and recruit the most experienced financial leaders. Over the years, he has hand-selected a team of the state’s finest recruiters, building a culture of relationship-based recruiting and a company that matches his vision of trust and honesty.

 

Confirmed is a time manager and scheduler designed for people whose meetings take them around the block or around the world. CEO David Radin has created a nimble organization that focuses on clients’ needs, harnessing innovative ideas and groundbreaking ways to create value. He built a unique web-based (SaaS) product for mobile professionals, helping them effectively utilize their time. When the pandemic hit, Radin was forced to rethink his company. He responded by rebuilding the scheduling tool to become even more useful in post-pandemic business life.

With AI rising, Radin gained certification in AI Product Management from Duke University. He leveraged this knowledge to build travel optimization functionality for his SaaS product and into a workshop called “Time Management in the Age of AI.”

 

Community Forge is an innovative nonprofit community center focused on equitable community development for the 21st century that forges relationships, inspires creativity and teaches the tools of the future. Recognizing the vital impact that social networks have on economic mobility, Community Forge focuses on relationships that bring together different communities across the silos in Pittsburgh through programs, events and shared space.

Executive Director Michael Skirpan has dedicated himself to creating equitable economic opportunities in the greater Pittsburgh region. Community Forge exemplifies a grassroots answer to the loss of community spaces and historic buildings in Pittsburgh neighborhoods. Starting as a volunteer effort, Skirpan has shepherded growth to build an organization with 34 full-time employees, most of whom are from the local area.

 

ERIN excels in innovation by developing and commercializing its employee referral platform, transforming talent acquisition pipelines for dozens of Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 businesses worldwide.

CEO Mike Stafiej works closely with his executives and board to analyze data points and predict the company’s future. He focuses on data-driven decision-making, fostering an innovative culture and utilizing cutting-edge technology to create scalable solutions.

ERIN empowers companies to leverage the power of employee referrals through streamlined, user-friendly software that maximizes efficiency in hiring. The company’s near-triple-digit year-over-year growth in revenue in the past year is a testament to its smart business practices, which include aligning technology with customer needs, focusing on enterprise solutions and continuously iterating on products to stay ahead of market demands.

 

Peptilogics is revolutionizing the discovery process for novel peptide therapeutics for patients with serious and life-threatening diseases. Combining the untapped potential of peptide biology with the power of machine learning, the company approaches drug design at massive scale, creating the next generation of medicines through precision engineering and design.

CEO Jonathan Steckbeck, Ph.D., MBA, founded the clinical-stage biotechnology platform company pioneering the development of best-in-class novel peptide therapeutics. Under his leadership, Peptilogics has developed a computational drug discovery platform to speed the design and development of novel peptide drugs across a range of therapeutic targets. The company is now rapidly advancing a pipeline of anti-infective therapies in focused indications and expanding the application of its platform to new disease areas.

 

President Amy Strano has led the Achieva Family Trust (AFT) since 2010. During her tenure, Strano has overseen tremendous growth and expansion of the services provided by the organization, benefiting thousands of individuals with disabilities and their families throughout Pennsylvania and other states.

Incorporated in 1998 as the first nonprofit in Pennsylvania to offer a type of Special Needs Trust called a “Pooled Trust,” AFT has grown to provide a variety of Special Needs Trusts. AFT has become a respected “one-stop shop” for people with disabilities, their families and professionals within the disability and legal communities. This is due to the tremendous leadership of Strano and the skilled staff she has assembled to improve the lives of people with disabilities in the community.

 

RareMed Solutions’ mission focuses on helping patients and families affected by rare and complex conditions. The company optimizes life-transforming therapies as the premier independent life sciences patient services partner for complex disorders.

Gordon Vanscoy Jr., Vice President, Business Operations, exemplifies what it means to be a leader. RareMed is a people organization with a foundation built on the happiness and success of its teammates. Unwaveringly committed to cultivating, enhancing and protecting work culture, Vanscoy fosters high-performing teams prepared to assist their patient populations.

This year, RareMed achieved record growth, tasking Vanscoy with hiring over 600 team members within six months while remaining dedicated to protecting the company’s award-winning culture. RareMed was recently named one of Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Top Workplaces and a Pittsburgh Business Times Best Place to Work.

 

Rewyndr offers rapid, intuitive and powerful digital solutions designed to empower frontline workers. Founder and CEO Craig Waller has successfully cultivated an organization centered on leadership that empowers his team, leveraging clarifying structures and fostering a culture that helps team members be their best. This people-centric approach improves performance and enhances workplace satisfaction and retention. Employees are not just fulfilling roles to get jobs done; they feel deeply connected to the mission and are supported in their personal and professional growth.

By implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), Waller ensures the entire team is aligned with Rewyndr’s mission and long-term objectives. EOS provides a structured framework emphasizing transparency, discipline and accountability, enabling the company to execute its shared vision effectively and achieve sustainable success.

 

Robert Stein is the associate vice chancellor for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence (IEE) executive director at the University of Pittsburgh.

Stein has over 20 years of economic development, entrepreneurial and technology expertise. Under his leadership in 2020, the IEE’s Small Business Development Center was named No. 1 nationally in economic development by the Small Business Administration and contributed to the university winning the Innovation and Economic Prosperity “Place” Award for the IEE’s work in the Homewood neighborhood.

A senior adviser with the IEE since 2005, Stein created a specialized information technology consultancy service and led the department in helping dozens of companies achieve multimillion-dollar growth. His extensive experience in project management and cost-effective integrated information systems has earned respect from long-standing tech leaders.

 

Since 1949, Rosedale Technical College has been a staple in the Pittsburgh region, training generations of skilled technicians for employment in industries with strong local roots.

Under the leadership of President and Director Dennis Wilke, Rosedale launched the #1 Cochran Technological Excellence Center in Feb 2023 with a $2.25 million donation from #1 Cochran. This includes scholarship funds of $100,000 per year, $750,000 of unrestricted funds for on-campus improvements, four donated vehicles per year and many connections to industry partners and manufacturers. The partnership includes an apprenticeship-style program where students have the opportunity to work part-time while in school.

In 2024, Rosedale launched the Johnson Controls lab thanks to a more than $80,000 commitment in a combination of unrestricted cash and equipment for training for faculty and students.