Sometimes it’s nice to focus on the good, rather than the bad. Yes, bad news sells, but it’s also only a part of what’s going on. This month we’re focused squarely on the positive side of things by celebrating the area’s top executives with the Pittsburgh Smart 50 Awards.
Positive sparks
As I read through all of the nomination essays and heard directly from some of the business leaders at the Smart 50 judging day, it was exciting to learn about the great things going on in the business community.
Many of the honorees have faced down significant market challenges or come up with new ways to approach an old problem. In fact, after some presentations, everyone in the room looked at each other and gave the ultimate compliment: “Why didn’t I think of that?”
We hope as you learn a little about these organizations and leaders — some who you already know and some that you’re hearing about for the first time — their passion will spark a little of your own passion as you lead your own organizations.
Green identity
Another positive thing in Pittsburgh is its reliance on green technology. Often, the topic for discussion is not that you’re going to build green; it’s how green do you want to go? In other words, what Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design level will you end up at?
Some of our Smart 50 honorees are tied into the green movement, but in addition for this month’s Uniquely Pittsburgh, I focused on The Tower at PNC Plaza. It’s been billed as the greenest office building in the world — at least at the moment.
If you’re not familiar with all of the green technology incorporated into the building, it’s time to check it out. A building that “breathes” is one of the coolest things I’ve heard about in awhile. (Although I would be curious to hear what working in a building with so much fresh air does for your allergies!)
