Surely, there were many factors involved, but Harley-Davidson's decision to remain the face of manufacturing in York County sent a major signal: Pennsylvania still matters on the manufacturing front.
A Milken Institute study found Greater Philadelphia passed San Francisco and is closing in on Boston as the nation's top life sciences region.
Tried and true bastions of research, innovation and excellence, like the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon and Penn State continued to diversify their interests, impact and integration into the Commonwealth's communities that support them.
While other companies struggled to find ways to stay afloat during the recession, BioClinica was on the attack the last 12 months.
Thomas Medical Company, Probes Unlimited and Met-Pro Corporation work in considerably different fields, but the three Eastern PA manufacturers share one common, business-growing trait--they've committed to "lean" principles.
There are many reasons why it's cool to be a high school kid in the Pittsburgh area. But if you happen to be a student with an interest in science and technology, this area is the ultimate place to learn from the pros.
With apologies to Kermit, it is easy being green in Pennsylvania, where our photographers chronicled the rapid development of green technology, companies and products throughout 2009.
While the economy staggered around them, these Pennsylvanians stood strong, driving innovation and working tirelessly to expand possibilities and opportunities throughout their respective companies, organizations and institutions.
Where federal money goes, chances are Viridity Energy is close by.