When Alvernia University launched its engineering program in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was more than an academic initiative — it was a bet on the future of Reading, Pennsylvania. Today, that gamble is paying off with a powerful partnership between the university and local industry, most notably Brentwood Industries.

Peter Rye, CEO of Brentwood Industries, brought a global mindset to his leadership — shaped by life in Denmark, Canada, and now Reading — that emphasizes outward-looking innovation.