Erie Regional Chamber Celebrates Achievement, Welcomes New Leadership at Annual Meeting

ERIE, PA — The Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership (ERCGP) held its Annual Meeting on December 11, 2024, at Penn State Behrend, drawing approximately 200 members of the business community. The event marked several significant transitions in leadership and recognized outstanding contributions to Erie’s business community.

Dr. Ralph Ford of Penn State Behrend was introduced as the new Chairman of the Board, succeeding Dr. Chris Clark,DO, who was acknowledged for his dedicated service over the past years. The Chamber also welcomed two new board members: Katie Jones from Erie Bank and Chuck Peters of Altair Real Estate Services.

Featured keynote speaker Tim NeCastro’s address came at a pivotal moment in Erie’s development story. His presentation traced back to the watershed moment in 2016 when Charles Buki presented his comprehensive plan for the City of Erie. NeCastro recalled the powerful message in Buki’s transmittal letter, which called for bold action and warned against “half measures” at Erie’s crucial turning point.

Following that initial presentation, NeCastro, in his role as Erie Insurance CEO, took decisive action by requesting a private meeting with Buki to discuss how Erie Insurance could help initiate change. That meeting proved to be a catalyst for transformation, leading to significant investments in Erie’s urban core. Working in partnership with Erie Insurance’s Board of Directors and Chairman Tom Hagen, NeCastro has since led a remarkable rebuilding effort which has inspired additional stakeholders, both local and external, to invest in Erie’s transformation.

In his keynote address, NeCastro focused on Erie’s economic development system and emphasized how a strong Chamber serves as a crucial asset to the region’s present and future growth. His leadership style, characterized by partnership, vision, and candid civility, has helped foster a renewed belief in the community’s future potential.

The Chamber presented its prestigious annual awards during the ceremony. Jim Rutkowski, Jr. of Industrial Sales and Manufacturing received the 2024 Chamber Champion of the Year Award for his exceptional dedication to the Chamber’s mission. With over 150 full-time employees at his family company, Rutkowski has consistently supported initiatives including Erie Forward and the Fly Erie Fund, while serving on the Chamber’s Board, Executive Committee, and chairing the Economic Development Committee.

Del Birch was honored with the 2024 Community Spirit Award for his tireless advocacy for Erie. In retirement, Birch has conducted over 700 business outreach visits in the past five years, connecting companies with vital resources for growth. His community involvement extends to roles with the United Way, Non-Profit Partnership, and the Bayfront East Side Taskforce.

A highlight of the meeting was the introduction of Brandon J. Mendoza, who will assume the role of CEO on January 2, 2025. Mendoza brings over 13 years of experience in economic development and chamber activities, most recently serving as the leader of Public Affairs & Government Affairs at the Master Builders’ Association of Western Pennsylvania.

“I believe Erie’s greatest days lie ahead,” Mendoza stated, expressing his enthusiasm for the role. “Erie’s story is one that needs to be told within the Commonwealth, nationally, and internationally. This city is a beauty on the lake, but we need more people to experience that beauty.”

The meeting was skillfully guided by Interim CEO Jacob Rouch as master of ceremonies, with current Board Chair Chris Clark presiding over the business portion. The gathering reflected the Chamber’s continued commitment to fostering economic growth and community development in the Erie region.

For more information about the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership and its initiatives, visit eriepa.com.