FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 6, 2025
Contact:
John Neurohr, [email protected], 717-364-6452
APPALACHIA — ReImagine Appalachia will present an innovative and interactive story map, “North Central Appalachia: Built For The Clean Economy,” showcasing the region’s manufacturing strengths and competitive advantages. The presentation will reveal new research findings about the region’s industrial capabilities and demonstrate how these assets position Appalachia to become a manufacturing powerhouse in the emerging clean economy. The event will include an exploration of how former coal plant sites can be transformed into new economic opportunities.
WHO: Featured speakers include:
- Wendy Patton, Research Fellow, ReImagine Appalachia
- Bikash Gupta, Sustainable Manufacturing Analyst, ReImagine Appalachia
- Stephen Herzenberg, Co-Director, ReImagine Appalachia
- Amanda Woodrum, Co-Director, ReImagine Appalachia
The presentation will be followed by an interactive discussion and Q&A session with participants.
WHEN: Thursday, May 8th, 2025 at 1:00 PM ET
WHERE: Virtual event via Zoom
BACKGROUND: This event is part of ReImagine Appalachia’s Summer 2025 Manufacturing Series, which explores opportunities within the region’s manufacturing sector. The series examines how Appalachia’s historical industrial assets can be leveraged for the new energy economy, supporting the creation of good jobs while advancing environmental sustainability.
The interactive story map presentation will include:
- County-level analysis of manufacturing competitiveness across various sectors
- Visualization of regional industrial strengths and opportunities
- Assessment of potential clean economy manufacturing hubs
- Discussion of possibilities for transformation of former coal plant sites
WHY IT MATTERS: As the nation transitions to a clean energy economy, Appalachia’s existing manufacturing infrastructure and skilled workforce position the region to play a crucial role. This research provides community leaders and stakeholders with valuable data and insights to inform economic development strategies and attract sustainable manufacturing opportunities.The event will include interactive polling and dedicated time for community feedback, ensuring that local perspectives help shape future research and economic development initiatives. For more information, visit: https://reimagineappalachia.org/appalachias-manufacturing-assets-story-map-release/