Brite’s Stockburger Named to Leadership Ohio 2021 Class

WARREN, Ohio — Rick Stockburger looks to represent the Mahoning Valley as part of the Leadership Ohio Fellows cohort for 2021.

With 43 members, it’s the second largest cohort of the statewide leadership program, and includes professionals from the private sector, government and nonprofit arenas, according to a release. Stockburger, president and CEO of Brite Energy Innovators, says the recognition is a testament to Brite’s staff and team.

“It’s a huge honor to be invited to be a part of this class, and my hope is that I can represent the Mahoning Valley well in Columbus,” he says.

Leadership Ohio recognized Stockburger and Brite for efforts in leveraging tech-based economic development to transform the post-industrial Midwest and Appalachia, according to the release. In less than four years, “Brite brought multiple out-of-state businesses to Ohio, increased venture capital funds and revenue 20 times for its client companies,” according to the release.

“Our 2021 Fellows are leading the way in everything from pandemic recovery to creating a more just society,” says Dr. Lisa Duty, executive director of Leadership Ohio. “Each Fellow, now a part of this very special XXVIII congress, is building a stronger Ohio, and a better quality of life for all Ohioans.”

As part of the cohort, Stockburger looks to spread the word of Voltage Valley across the state, he says. With the electric vehicles industry, additive manufacturing and other technologies coming out of the region, “we have a real strong future, and I hope I can relay that message to the rest of the state,” he says.

The class of 2021 represents 13 major sectors and multiple cities in Ohio, including four elected officials, appointed officials, and public and private institution leaders. Of the fellows, 35% are minorities, more than half are women and 73% have earned at least a master’s degree, according to the release. For the first time, first-generation college-going individuals comprise the majority of the class.

During 2021, fellows will engage with the organization’s network of scholars, activists, innovators and influencers. Leadership Ohio provides civic leadership development opportunities and exposure to a network of decision makers, including high-ranking state officials. Fellows will also be supported in developing Ohio Impact Projects that respond to conditions of inequity and injustice.

This year’s program will launch virtually on April 16, and features a new partnership with the National Institute on Civil Discourse.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.