About Event

The Pennsylvania Data Center and Energy Innovation Summit aims to position Pennsylvania as a leader in the burgeoning data center industry. The summit will bring together key stakeholders to explore the intersection of innovation, energy, and critical infrastructure, highlighting Pennsylvania's unique strengths in each of these sectors.

2025 Pennsylvania Data Center and Energy Innovation Summit

At the Convergance of Energy, AI and Innovation:

Technological Advancements: The summit will showcase "critical breakthroughs in technology that are required to make data centers nimble, secure, efficient, and reliable." Discussions will delve into the latest advancements in data center design and operations, emphasizing the need for continuous innovation to meet evolving demands.

Economic Impact and Opportunities: The summit will explore the "diverse economic impact and opportunities associated with the data center ecosystem." Discussions will focus on job creation, investment attraction, and the positive ripple effects on related industries. The summit aims to showcase how data centers can be powerful economic engines for Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania's Energy Infrastructure: A central theme is "The power of power: Pennsylvania’s energy infrastructure positions our state to become a key player in future data center projects." The summit will highlight Pennsylvania's abundant energy resources, including nuclear power, and their ability to support the power-intensive nature of data centers.

Workforce and Public Policy: The summit will address critical "Workforce and Public Policy Issues" impacting the data center industry. Discussions will cover workforce training programs to develop skilled talent, incentives to attract data center development, and regulations that impact the sector's growth.

The summit presents a vital opportunity for Pennsylvania to establish itself as a prime location for data center development. By fostering collaboration and exploring the synergy between technology, energy, and infrastructure, the summit aims to cultivate a thriving data center ecosystem within the state.

Agenda:

7:45 a.m. | Registration, Networking and Continental Breakfast

8:30 a.m. | Welcome and Opening Remarks:

Audrey Russo, President and CEO | Pittsburgh Technology Council
Chris Massetti, President | Donwil

8:45 a.m. | Data Centers: Accelerating AI, Scalability, and Major Breakthroughs

Before we take a deep dive into the economic benefits of data centers and our energy economy, let’s take a minute to start from the beginning. Why are data centers so pivotal to the global economy? Our opening speakers will highlight the pivotal role these centers play in driving innovation within the digital economy, but with a local perspective.

Speakers:

Sinmin Yap, VP, Strategy | ANSYS
TBA

9:00 a.m. | Keynote: Data Centers, Generative AI & Power Constraints – The Path Forward (Sponsored by LLI Engineering)

What makes Pittsburgh the ideal hub for hyperscale data centers? A recent study by TD Cowen points to a bright future for Pittsburgh’s Data Center industry. Spoiler alert: Our energy sector uniquely positions this region for success. Join us as our presenter shares come key findings from this insightful and timely report!

Keynote Speaker:

Michael Elias, Senior Equity Research Analyst | TD Cowen

9:45 a.m. | Break

10:00 a.m. | The Built Data Center: Unpacking the Layers of Data Center Development

Explore the intricate ecosystem behind data center construction in this dynamic panel discussion. Industry experts from five key professions—Owner Operators, Design Engineers, General Contractors, Mechanical/Construction Specialists, and Equipment Providers—will share insights into their roles, challenges, and collaborations. Discover how these layers interconnect to power the digital infrastructure of the future.

Moderator:

AJ Kuftic, Field CTO | Expedient

Panelists:

Jamie White | LLI Engineering
Regis Etzel, P.E., President | Etzel Engineering
Brad F. Olsavsky, Project Manager | Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Larry Doyle, Regional Manager | Starline
Mark Caskey, CEO | Steel Nation Microgrids

10:45 a.m. | Break

11:00 a.m. | The “Power” of Data Centers (Sponsored by Emerson)

From repowering a reactor at Three Mile Island to pioneering the development of small modular nuclear reactors and harnessing the abundant natural gas resources of Pennsylvania, this panel delves into the innovative energy solutions shaping the future. Discover how Pennsylvania continues to lead the charge in energy innovation, driving progress and sustainability on a global scale.

Moderator: Adam Bird, Director of Business Transformation, Strategy, and Planning | Emerson

Panelists:

Leah Crider, VP of Commercial Operations, eVinci | Westinghouse Electric
W. Mason Emnett, SVP Public Policy | Constellation
Ravi Srivastava, President, New Technologies | CNX
Mark Schneider, Regional President | Cordia
Paul Kress, Director of Commercial Development | The Williams Companies

11:45 a.m. | Lunch Break

12:45 p.m. | Keynote Address (Sponsored by iVision)

1:15 p.m. | Break

1:30 p.m. | The Data Center Workforce (AVAILABLE to be sponsored)

To meet the expected demand for skilled talent, the region will need a comprehensive approach to building the workforce of the future. Our panelists will discuss how industry and the skilled trade councils are working together to prepare for the workforce needs of the energy and data center industries.

Panelists:

Mike Huwar, President | Peoples Gas (Co-Chair – Pittsburgh Works Together)
Steve Mazza, Regional Council of Carpenters

2:15 p.m. | Break

2:30 p.m. | The DNA of a Hyperscale Data Center

TECfusions, a leader in sustainable data center solutions, will discuss their transformative Keystone Connect, which was announced in January of 2024. This groundbreaking initiative in Upper Burrell, PA, revitalizes the former Alcoa R&D campus into a state-of-the-art data center campus with a planned 3 GW capacity. TECfusions will highlight their innovative approach to adaptive reuse, their commitment to sustainable energy practices, and how the project leverages public-private partnerships, such as a $2 million RACP grant, to drive community revitalization and economic growth. Attendees will gain insights into the rapid deployment of infrastructure to meet AI and HPC demands, and the significant job creation and regional impact this project promises to deliver.

Speakers: TECfusions

3:00 The Role of Renewables in Data Centers

Speaker:

Jim Spencer | President and CEO of Exus Renewables North America

3:15 p.m. | Closing Remarks

Speakers:

Stefani Pashman, CEO | Allegheny Conference on Community Development
Audrey Russo, President & CEO | Pittsburgh Technology Council
Chris Massetti, President | Donwil

3:45 p.m. | Reception and Networking (Sponsored by Etzel Engineer and Build)

Why Attend?

Engage with top innovators, developers, and policymakers in the data center and energy sectors.
Learn about Pittsburgh’s unique advantages for data center growth and energy innovation.
Discover cutting-edge solutions for sustainable and efficient data center development.
Connect with potential partners, suppliers, and stakeholders driving the industry forward.

Meet the Speakers:

Michael Elias | Senior Equity Research Analyst, TMT - Communications Infrastructure, TD Cowen

Michael Elias is a Senior Equity Research Analyst at TD Cowen covering the Communications Infrastructure sector including Data Centers, Towers, and Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) and has been a member of the Communications Infrastructure team since 2017. Prior to joining TD Cowen, Mr. Elias worked as an equity analyst at Xanthus Capital Management. Mr. Elias received his B.S. in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research: Engineering Management Systems at Columbia University’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

W. Mason Emnett | Senior Vice President, Public Policy, Constellation

Emnett leads the development and implementation of federal, regional, and state governmental, regulatory and public policy strategies for Constellation, the nation’s largest producer of carbon-free energy and the leading competitive retail supplier of energy products and services for 2 million homes and businesses across the United States. He is responsible for identifying and assessing key federal and state policy issues of interest to Constellation, crafting the company’s position on such issues and developing strategies for achieving public policy objectives on behalf of Constellation’s customers and businesses. He is also responsible for managing the company’s wholesale market design advocacy in each of the regional markets where the company operates. Prior to joining Exelon, Emnett was Senior FERC Counsel for NextEra Energy, Inc., where he provided legal support and strategic advice on federal regulatory matters. Before joining NextEra in 2014, Emnett served as Deputy Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, where he led the development of regulations and rules governing wholesale electric markets and the provision of interstate transmission service. Prior to joining in 2006, Emnett was in private practice with the law firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher and Flom LLP. Emnett lives in Washington, D.C. with his husband and daughter.

Mark Caskey | Founder & CEO, Steel Nation Microgrids

Mark Caskey founded Steel Nation Buildings in 2008. As a resident of Western Pennsylvania, Mark followed the industry that cropped up in the region since the beginning of the Marcellus Shale boom. Drawing upon his years of experience in designing steel buildings for the coal industry, Mark saw an opportunity to serve the oil and gas industry with specialty-designed steel buildings that are Clean, Cool, Quiet and Safe. Mark is instrumental in leading the entire Design-Build process for Steel Nation. From the conception of projects, through estimating, contract negotiations, scheduling and safety, Mark oversees the construction management of all energy-related projects. To date, Mark has led the Steel Nation team in over 2,500 projects for all of the leading Natural Gas Processing and Distribution Companies in America. In 2024, Mark and Steel Nation created their newest division, Steel Nation Microgrids, which Designs/Builds on-site Data Center Power Plants using Clean and Abundant Natural Gas converted to Continuous Electrical Energy Supplies through the use of Gen Sets and Gas Turbines.

Ravi Srivastava | President, New Technologies, CNX Resources Corporation

Ravi Srivastava has served as the President, New Technologies of CNX Resources Corporation since December 8, 2021. In this role, he is responsible for developing and commercializing emerging technology opportunities. Prior to this role, Mr. Srivastava served as the Vice President of Data Operations overseeing CNX’s data and digital transformation journey. He has an extensive tenure with CNX having served in a broad range of leadership roles including Engineering, Research & Development, Drilling and Production Operations, Production Engineering, Information Technology, and Data Science and Analytics. Mr. Srivastava graduated Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Bluefield State College and holds master’s degrees in engineering management and business administration from Penn State University and MIT respectively.

Adam Bird | Director of Business Transformation, Strategy, and Planning, Emerson

Adam Bird is a leader at an Emerson business that is revolutionizing energy transition with innovative technologies. As the Director of Business Transformation, Strategy, and Planning for Emerson’s power and water solutions business, Adam steers the charge in defining and managing Emerson’s software strategy for the industry-leading Ovation™ Automation Platform. His strategic foresight and deep collaboration with utility customers help ensure that Emerson remains at the forefront of energy innovation and sustainability.

Chris Massetti | President, Donwil

Founded in 1965, Donwil sells and services critical business process power and cooling products for enterprises located in Western Pennsylvania, Western Virginia, or Eastern Ohio. As the exclusive provider of Vertiv, Liebert, Starline, and Hitachi, Donwil provides premium products, unrivaled expertise, and the most responsive and reliable service — which means you can rest assured knowing that your critical business processes are always running.

Leah Crider | Vice President of Commercial Operations, eVinci Microreactor

Leah Crider hase more than 20 years of engineering and technology experience, primarily in clean energy, working with customers to drive value. Strong analytical, interpersonal, communication and leadership skills built through diverse roles in engineering, quality, project management, commercial, and product management. Demonstrated capabilities to attain new skills and bring positive change to a team.

Michael Huwar | President, Peoples

In his role as president, Huwar is responsible for providing safe and reliable natural gas service to approximately 741,000 customers in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. Huwar joined Peoples in 2020, overseeing operations, maintenance and construction, as well as designing and executing legislative, regulatory, commercial and external strategies for Peoples and its sister utility, Delta Natural Gas,. Huwar also serves as a member of Essential Utilities’ executive leadership team, reporting directly to CEO & Chairman Christopher Franklin.

Mark Schneider | Regional President, Cordia

Mark Schneider serves as the Regional President for Cordia’s East Region, where he oversees the operation and maintenance of three district energy systems in Pittsburgh, as well as district heating and cooling systems and a combined heat and power (CHP) plant in Harrisburg, PA. Mark began his career as a civilian engineer supporting nuclear power initiatives for the U.S. Navy. He then transitioned to the private sector, contributing to the development of distributed generation plants and other critical infrastructure projects for an independent power producer. Since joining Cordia as a development engineer, Mark has leveraged his extensive technical and leadership experience to drive operational excellence and sustainable energy solutions across the region.

AJ Kuftic | Field CTO, Expedient

AJ Kuftic is an accomplished technology leader with expertise in product management, digital strategy, and VMware architecture. Currently serving as Field CTO at Expedient, AJ plays a pivotal role in guiding enterprise clients through their IT transformations, leveraging cloud, data center, and virtualization technologies to enhance operational efficiency and business agility. Before stepping into his current role, AJ was a Product Manager at Expedient, where he led the development and execution of digital product strategies, aligning products with market needs and customer expectations. His background as a Digital Product Strategist further strengthened his ability to create tailored solutions that drive innovation and customer success.

Stefani Pashman | Chief Executive Officer, Allegheny Conference on Community Development

Stefani Pashman became the CEO of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development and its affiliated organizations (the Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce, the Pennsylvania Economy League of Greater Pittsburgh, LLC and the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance) in 2017. Before joining the Conference she served as CEO of Partner4Work and its predecessor, the Three Rivers Workforce Investment Board (3RWIB). Prior to entering the workforce field, Stefani spent many years in the healthcare field, in both policy and strategy roles. Most recently, she served in Governor Rendell’s Administration for nearly seven years at the PA Department of Human Services as Director of Policy and as Special Assistant to the Secretary, leading policy changes in human service programs, primarily Medicaid. She has also worked in private consulting at Avalere Health and Navigant, and as an analyst in the White House Office of Management and Budget.

Larry Doyle | Southeast Regional Manager, Starline Track Busway, a Brand of Legrand

Jim Spencer | President and CEO of Exus Renewables North America

Jim Spencer is the President and CEO of Exus Renewables North America (Exus). Prior to his tenure at Exus, Jim spent 35 years in the power industry managing the development and financing of energy projects in both developed and underdeveloped countries. He was the Founder, President and CEO of Ever Power Wind Holdings, a national utility scale development and operating wind company, for 16 years.

Regis Etzel | Owner, Etzel Engineer and Build

Regis Etzel is the owner of Etzel Engineer and Build Inc. Rege has more than 30 years of leadership and engineering experience in the construction industry.

Rege began his career in the field as a laborer for his family’s masonry construction. He became a registered union electrician in 1984 after serving a four-year apprenticeship and on-the-job training program. In 1986, he started his first company. He performed residential, commercial, and light industrial electrical construction. During this ten-year period, Rege obtained a solid, hands-on understanding of building construction. In 2007, Rege founded Etzel Engineer and Build Inc. Since its inception, Etzel has completed over 80 million dollars worth of design and construction work for over twenty clients in at least ten states.