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When most people hear “AI data centers,” they picture racks of servers and stacks of chips. But the reality is this: you don’t get a functioning data center by buying silicon—you get one by building it. And that build depends on the exact capabilities our region’s manufacturers already deliver every day. At Catalyst Connection, we work alongside small and mid-sized manufacturers who produce structural steel, insulation, cabling, panels, and…

Artificial intelligence may be the future, but it runs on one thing: power. Data centers demand reliable, large-scale, uninterrupted energy—and that’s where Southwestern Pennsylvania holds a competitive edge. For decades, natural gas has been part of this region’s foundation. That expertise now translates directly into the energy infrastructure required to power hyperscale AI data centers. These facilities are not like ordinary buildings. They need gigawatts of electricity, delivered without…

As of September 2025, manufacturers across the U.S., and especially in regions like Southwestern Pennsylvania, are navigating one of the most challenging tariff environments in decades. Tariff rates on industrial imports are at multi-decade highs, spanning 10–50% on raw materials, components, and finished products. For manufacturers in our region who rely heavily on imported metals, electronics, and machinery, these shifts have created sharp cost increases, disrupted supply chains, and…

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept reserved for tech companies—it’s here, and it’s transforming manufacturing today. From reducing downtime on the factory floor to enabling smarter decision-making in the boardroom, AI is becoming a practical tool for manufacturers of all sizes. But with opportunity comes responsibility, and organizations must also ensure their AI initiatives are grounded in strong policies and reliable data strategies. This fall, Catalyst…

Plastics play a vital role in Pennsylvania’s manufacturing economy, fueling innovation, competitiveness, and job creation across a wide range of sectors. As manufacturers continue to adopt advanced materials, plastics remain a cornerstone for industries that are driving the future of work and technology. By the Numbers 38,000+ well-paying jobs $2.7 billion in total wage contributions 590 plastics manufacturing facilities statewide $5 billion contributed to Pennsylvania’s GDP $16.8 billion in…