GlobalPittsburgh hosted a delegation from the Philippines for IGNITE: Initiating Growth in Nuclear Innovation, Talent, and Education, an International Visitor Leadership Program focused on nuclear energy innovation, workforce development, and education. The delegation included leaders from universities, government agencies, research institutions, energy companies, and technical education organizations across the Philippines.
Participants visited Westinghouse Electric Company, where they toured the company’s Etna facility and met with leaders involved in advanced nuclear technologies. Discussions explored nuclear innovation and commercialization, including Westinghouse’s eVinci microreactor and AP300 small modular reactor technologies, as well as the company’s broader role in supporting nuclear energy and energy security.
The delegation also traveled to North American Forgemasters in New Castle, Pennsylvania, to learn about the manufacturing of large, high-integrity forged components used in the nuclear, energy, defense, and infrastructure industries. Participants gained insight into the specialized manufacturing capabilities and supply chains that support nuclear power plants and other critical energy infrastructure.
Beyond the professional program, delegates had time to explore Pittsburgh’s cultural landscape, including an opportunity to visit the Carnegie Museum of Art and Carnegie Museum of Natural History. They also participated in home hospitality with GlobalPittsburgh volunteer host families, providing an opportunity for informal cultural exchange and personal connections with members of the Pittsburgh community. The visit concluded on February 4 after several days of professional learning, cultural exchange, and relationship-building around the future of nuclear energy and workforce development.
