This month, the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Powerex Inc., based in Youngwood, as our Chamber Champion of the Month. This honor shines a spotlight on the company’s relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and growth—under the steadfast leadership of CEO Joseph Wolf and Vice President of Manufacturing David Penzera.
Powerex has long been a hidden gem in our region, but its recent milestones have catapulted the company to well-deserved prominence. Powerex was recently awarded $1 million from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, a significant investment that will enable the company to expand operations, enhance production, and add 25 or more high-quality jobs right here in Westmoreland County. This follows a $3 million grant through the federal CHIPS and Science Act, aimed at bolstering the domestic semiconductor industry.
These public investments, paired with over $14 million in private capital improvements, will modernize Powerex’s key assembly, testing, and production capabilities. Powerex’s role as one of the last vertically integrated power semiconductor facilities in the United States underscores its strategic importance—not only to our region, but to the nation’s supply chain and security interests.
A Global Force with Local Roots
Situated near the Westmoreland County Community College, Powerex currently employs over 215 individuals, and this number is expected to grow significantly. In fact, there are active plans to relocate additional production operations from Warsaw, Poland to Hempfield, deepening the company’s investment in our local workforce and economy.
Powerex is a joint venture between two global powerhouses: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation and General Electric, each holding a 50% stake. This powerful partnership ensures that the company remains on the cutting edge of semiconductor technology and provides access to a robust international supply chain.
Founded in 1986 as a merger between the Power Semiconductor Divisions of GE and Westinghouse, Powerex has evolved into a leader in high-power semiconductor solutions, offering a wide range of products including IGBTs, HVIGBTs, rectifiers, thyristors, and custom modules. The company’s components support industries such as:
- Military and aerospace
- Electric vehicles
- Alternative and renewable energy
- Industrial and medical power systems
- Transportation and infrastructure
Their mission is simple yet impactful: to be the Preferred Global Partner for High Power Semiconductor Solutions, consistently delivering value, quality, and innovation.
Championing Excellence Through Values and Vision
What sets Powerex apart isn’t just their technology—it’s their culture of excellence, shaped by deeply rooted values. From maintaining uncompromising integrity and safety standards, to their commitment to total customer satisfaction, Powerex exemplifies what it means to be a Chamber Champion. Their Quality Statement rings clear: “Do every job right the first time.” It’s a philosophy lived out daily on the shop floor and in leadership meetings.
CEO Joseph Wolf and Vice President David Penzera continue to lead the company with passion, adaptability, and a strong belief in collaboration. They empower teams to be accountable, responsive, and constantly focused on improvement—exactly the kind of leadership that aligns with the Chamber’s mission of driving economic growth and opportunity.
Investing in People and Our Region
Beyond business performance, Powerex remains a dedicated community stakeholder. Their expansion not only brings jobs and capital investment, but also reinforces Westmoreland County’s role in the global tech economy. At a time when domestic manufacturing is more crucial than ever, Powerex proves that world-class innovation can thrive right here at home.
We salute the entire Powerex team for their trailblazing efforts and contributions to our region’s future. The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Powerex as the May 2025 Chamber Champion of the Month. Congratulations to the leadership, the employees, and all who make Powerex an outstanding example of local business excellence.
