November 2001

Pittsburgh Changemakers

Twenty-five key people who are reshaping our traditional economy into one of growth

Change is a good thing, and you'll notice a big one in this month's TechBiz.

This issue marks a departure from our typical mix of technology-related features to zero in on the people helping to make those stories come to life.

We've dedicated the bulk of our publication to Changemakers -- 25 key people who we believe are reshaping our traditional economy into one of growth.

After analyzing our news coverage over the past year, Business Times editors and reporters have hand-picked a diverse list of people who have distinguished themselves with their vision, energy and execution.

Our Changemakers don't fit any particular mold. In fact, they come from a variety of different backgrounds and disciplines -- spanning technology, industry, finance, philanthropy, academia and the arts.

But they all share one common goal -- to guide their organizations and the Pittsburgh region into the future.

We think they're off to a promising start.
The List

Josh Knauer
GreenMarketplace.com
Founder and CEO
Age: 28
Web site: http://www.greenmarketplace.com

What's the most important part of your job? All CEOs have to worry about the financial bottom line. Green Marketplace considers a triple bottom line for every business decision we make. Our triple bottom line guarantees that all decisions have beneficial financial, environmental and social impacts both for our company and our community. It is my job to make sure that all three bottom lines are incorporated into every aspect of our business.

I make a difference in the community by... Proving that being profitable does not have to come at the expense of the environment or people.

I am inspired by...The ability that each individual has to overcome personal barriers, whether they be physical or mental disabilities, poverty or addiction.

Technology has changed my life by... Enabling me to meet my wife. We met through the Internet -- not through chat rooms -- but rather because I was teaching a seminar for local environmental organizations about how to use the Internet and she was one of my students.

Technology has changed my company by... Allowing us to easily reach millions of potential customers at a much lower cost than more traditional catalog or retail stores.

What can technology do for Pittsburgh? Technology has already had a profound impact on Pittsburgh, from reducing our air and water pollution to creating a more vibrant economy for the region. By encouraging the creation and production of technologies in the region, we can help continue the progress that has already been achieved.