Each year, Fast Company magazine identifies companies all over the world that are leading the charge in innovation. This year, Pittsburgh International Airport is one of them.

On Tuesday, PIT was listed second on the 2024 list of most innovation transportation companies, a recognition for organizations reshaping industries and culture and standing out amongst their peers as innovators.

Fast Company called out the airport’s work to leverage its major terminal construction project to create job-training opportunities through initiatives like PIT2Work and acting as a strong employer and key community builder.

Fast Company’s list of the most innovative companies covers industries across 58 sectors from all over the world. PIT was honored alongside Zipline, InCharge Energy, Beta Technologies and more.

This isn’t the first time Fast Company has recognized PIT. In 2020, the publication named the airport one of the most innovative companies in the world.

A few years later, in 2023, the magazine recognized PIT’s sensory room, Presley’s Place, in its nationwide Innovation by Design Awards. Presley’s Place was named a finalist in the Accessible Design category and received an honorable mention for Experience Design.

Breaking down barriers

PIT often steps outside the confines of a typical airport by working to develop a strong, diverse workforce, breaking down barriers to careers in the industry.

In 2023, the airport opened an on-site childcare center on its campus, making it one of the first airports in the world to do so. The airport also launched PIT2Work, a training program that gives participants a fast track to starting careers in the trades.

Two cohorts have already successfully completed the program, with a third wrapping up at the end of March. One PIT2Work graduate, Antoine Long, is employed on the site of the new terminal construction project just months after graduating from the program. Since it launched, the program has gained national attention, including recognition from the White House.

“I don’t feel like I just have a job,” Long said. “I have a career. After the next 10 years, I feel like I will be able to put myself in the position to look forward and retire as a union roofer.”

The program is largely set on the site of the new terminal project, a $1.57 billion endeavor that is past 60 percent completion and on track for a 2025 opening date. Fast Company acknowledged the terminal project largely for the jobs it provides in the Pittsburgh region.

The airport and construction of the new terminal provide over 14,300 jobs to the community. Additionally, the project is expected to have a $2.5 billion economic impact for the region.