Steve McKnight is part of a new generation of young professionals bringing fresh energy to the world of economic and community development. In this first installment of a new series, we follow him as he bikes around Blair County, forging connections and spreading the word about the region he loves.
Last month, Keystone Edge traveled to the Susquehanna Valley, sparking conversation about talent attraction, engaging young professionals in regional economic development, and why the area is such a great place to live and work. Here's a bit about who attended and what they had to say.
In 1893, Pennsylvania was practically devoid of trees. In 2018, the state boasts 121 state parks encompassing nearly 300,000 acres and a state forest system comprised of 2.2 million acres in 48 counties. These natural assets are invaluable, whether you're talking about the Commonwealth's economy or its health.
In 2011, this city of more than 87,000 people and 28 parks had no active rec centers and zero playgrounds. But that was all about to change with the genesis of the Reading Recreation Commission, an organization that has flourished thanks to creative funding solutions, a whole lot of elbow grease, and one inspiring leader.
The community in this Northwestern PA city is rallying together, pushing through the tough transition from assembly line to high tech, from divestment to development, and from frustration to hope.
Zoetropolis Cinema Stillhouse, a combination indie movie theater, micro-distillery and restaurant, is coming soon to a long-vacant furniture store on Water Street. It's the sequel to a beloved boutique theater, expanding alongside the booming city's vibrant arts community.
Next time you book a stay in the mountains, you'll be helping to preserve the very natural landscape you've traveled to see. In this majestic region, environmentalists have joined forces with the vibrant tourism industry. Funds from hotel stays and drink purchases support conservation efforts, including the successful resurrection of the local bald eagle population. It’s a great way to justify your next vacation.
From the Soviet Union to Philadelphia's University City Science Center via Silicon Valley, this expert in international business has spent decades helping foster connections across the world.
Wellsboro's Highland Chocolates employs people with intellectual and physical disabilities. Buy their famous pretzel bark or take a factory tour to support their vocational training vision.
Thanks to technology, students across nine counties will be able to access in-person classes -- and the opportunities that come with postsecondary education -- via the new Rural Regional College of Northern Pennsylvania. The goal is to boost the area economically by preparing locals for the jobs of the future.
A refreshed design guide and a big annual event will boost efforts to nurture place-based tourism and development in this scenic Pennsylvania region. Ed McMahon, a national expert on sustainable growth, headlines a April 27 banquet in DuBois.