The German American Chamber of Commerce, Pittsburgh Chapter (GACCPIT) was founded in 2015 to promote and support bilateral trade between Germany and the U.S. On January 30, 2016, the GACCPIT held its first annual Ice Gala at the newly-renovated Energy Innovation Center. More than 170 members and friends of the German-American business community came to celebrate the sold-out gala.
The attendees enjoyed music by the River City Brass Band, cuisine from top chef, Mike Twigg of the Teutonia Maennerchor, Penn Brewery’s Award-winning beer, and top-rated German wine. The Ice Gala also included an Ice Room with ice sculptures designed by Mastro Ice, authentic Glühwein and a few surprises to create an Alpine-themed winter market. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Scott Lammie, CFO of the Ice Gala Presenting Sponsor UPMC Health Plan, Congressman Tim Murphy and County Executive Rich Fitzgerald. Ongoing tours of the Energy Innovation Center, whose mission is focused on sustainability and workforce development, were offered to provide a look at the building and its organizations.
Proceeds of the gala benefit the dual training apprenticeship program that the GACCPIT has initiated together with U can B. In the apprenticeship program, high school students receive both classroom instruction and on-the-job time at a company. The theory they learn in class is reinforced by the practice at work. They also learn work habits and responsibility and, if all goes well, absorb the culture of the company. And both employer and employee generally hope it will lead to a permanent job—for employers, apprentices are a crucial talent pool. The pilot with the German-owned company VEKA was kicked off in January 2016. More companies will follow this year.
More information on the GACCPIT and its events and projects can be found on www.gaccpit.com. For more information on U can B – email Info@BuildingBridgesforBusiness.org
