Driving Innovation, Growth, and Sustainability in Manufacturing | We Grow Manufacturing

As we reflect on 2024, I am proud to celebrate a year of transformative achievements that have strengthened the manufacturing landscape of Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Together, we have fueled innovation, empowered workforce development, and championed sustainable practices that are reshaping the future of our region. At Catalyst Connection, we remain steadfast in our commitment to our core mission: We Grow Manufacturing.

This year, Catalyst Connection has driven progress across the manufacturing ecosystem. Through initiatives like the Digital Bridge program, we have helped manufacturers integrate cutting-edge technologies, modernizing operations, fortifying supply chains, and enhancing cybersecurity.

Workforce development remains a cornerstone of our mission. Programs like the Industrial Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship, the "What’s So Cool About Manufacturing" contest, and the IMT Pre-Apprenticeship Program continue to expand access to rewarding careers and inspire the next generation of manufacturing leaders.

Sustainability is also a priority. By partnering with manufacturers to adopt energy strategies, we are proving that environmental stewardship and economic growth go hand in hand, reducing costs and strengthening resilience.

This year, we also launched two major reports that outline the future of manufacturing in our region:

• 2024 Manufacturers Survey Report – A deep dive into the technological, economic, and workforce trends shaping the industry.
• Vision 2030: Forging the Future of Manufacturing – A roadmap for driving innovation, strengthening the workforce, and fostering sustainable growth.

Thank you for your partnership and dedication as we ensure We Grow Manufacturing for generations to come.

Petra Mitchell
President & CEO
Catalyst Connection

Catalyst Connection, a leading economic development organization in southwestern Pennsylvania, has supported manufacturers for over 35 years through technical assistance, management consulting, and strategic partnerships. Dedicated to modernizing manufacturing and expanding opportunities, Catalyst empowers businesses, individuals, and communities to succeed in a dynamic industry. Backed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and NIST's Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), Catalyst serves as the region's representative for the Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (IRC) and the MEP National Network.

OUR VISION
Southwestern Pennsylvania will be a global leader in advanced manufacturing, fostering opportunities for all members of our community to thrive and prosper.

OUR MISSION
Our mission is to serve as a CATALYST for the growth and adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies and the CONNECTION for communities to high-paying manufacturing jobs.

CATALYST CONNECTION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CATALYST CONNECTION STAFF