PublicSource, in collaboration with Technical.ly, is exploring the changing landscape of work in Pittsburgh, a city known for its industrious spirit and complex union dynamics, as it grapples with shifts in government policy, technology, and economics.
Everything changed five years ago next month. While some leaders, including President Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, are advocating for a return to traditional office work, many Pittsburgh professionals are expressing a strong desire for remote work to remain a permanent option.
Last week, we launched the Pittsburgh at Work series, inviting locals to share how their work lives have evolved since the pandemic. The response highlighted the flexibility and new expectations that remote work has brought.
Voices from the Community
Stacey, 45, Morningside
Regulatory compliance for a university in another state
“I was part of a pilot program for my department in January 2020 for two work-from-home days a week. From March 2020 to December 2024, I was almost entirely remote. Now, I’m fully remote in my new job, with occasional travel for team meetings.”
Kyle, 42, Lawrenceville
General counsel for a national affordable housing provider
“I transitioned from a local company to a national one, working from a home office.”
Anonymous, 40, Downtown
Tech contractor at a major local corporation
“With over 15 years in technology, I refuse to work in an office five days a week just to sit on Teams calls. Many managers are starting to understand the importance of work-life balance.”
Alicia, 36, Bellevue
Art director for an advertising agency
“In 2020, I worked fully remote. Now, my current company expects in-office attendance Monday-Thursday, limiting flexibility.”
Jonathan, 40, South Hills
Part-time gig worker and stay-at-home dad
“I stepped back from corporate finance to focus on family after moving back to Pittsburgh.”
Sam, 29, East Liberty
Program administrator for a nonprofit
“I transitioned from managing a bed and breakfast to being fully remote.”
Nonie, 64, Monroeville
GIS Specialist
“My company encouraged remote work early in the pandemic, and we've now gone 100% remote for those who can work from home.”
Rich Lord is the managing editor at PublicSource and can be reached at rich@publicsource.org.
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