EPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Highlights Energy, Manufacturing, and Workforce During Western Pennsylvania Visit
PHILADELPHIA — U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Amy Van Blarcom-Lackey recently visited Western Pennsylvania to tour energy and manufacturing facilities to see firsthand how the region’s industrial economy balances environmental protection with support for jobs, investments, and local communities.
“Western Pennsylvania has long been an engine for American energy, manufacturing, and innovation,” said Van Blarcom-Lackey. “This trip was about listening, building understanding, and reinforcing a simple principle: we can protect public health and the environment while supporting the jobs and economic activity that families and communities depend on. That takes cooperation, communication, and common sense.”
Joined by staff from Senator Dave McCormick and U.S. Representative Guy Reschenthaler’s offices, the trip included tours and discussions at EQT Corporation, MPLX, Shell Polymers Monaca, and U. S. Steel’s Mon Valley Works - Edgar Thompson Plant. Each visit provided an opportunity to hear directly from operators, educators, and stakeholders about the importance of clear communication, practical problem-solving, and strong coordination between government, industry, and local communities.
The visit reflected EPA’s focus on cooperative federalism, permitting reform and predictability, transparency, innovation, and efficiency — governing principles under the Trump Administration that guide the Agency’s work to protect human health and the environment while supporting responsible growth.
During the trip, Van Blarcom-Lackey discussed the importance of:
- Clear, timely, and lawful permitting that gives communities and businesses predictability
- Strong environmental protections that are implemented consistently and in coordination with federal, state, and local regulations
- Workforce development and training that prepare Pennsylvanians for good-paying jobs in energy and manufacturing
- Practical solutions that support energy reliability, industrial competitiveness, and environmental stewardship
EPA works closely with partners across Western Pennsylvania to help ensure the region’s energy and manufacturing sectors can operate responsibly while meeting environmental requirements that protect air, water, and public health.
The Regional Administrator’s visit also highlighted the importance of preparing the next generation of workers through hands-on training and education opportunities that connect classroom learning with in-demand technical careers. Staff from Devon Energy and Parkway West Career and Technology Center welcomed Van Blarcom-Lackey at their Oakdale campus to provide an overview of their job training program that aims to equip students for college and careers with skills, knowledge, and direction.
“Part of the Great American Comeback is making sure American workers have the skills and opportunities they need to succeed,” Van Blarcom-Lackey added. “That means investing in training, supporting innovation, and making sure our permitting and oversight systems are clear, consistent, and grounded in science.”
