CLEARFIELD- Clearly Ahead Development CEO, Robert Swales, has been appointed to serve as President of the Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) effective January 1, 2026.
Swales brings extensive experience in community and economic development to the Association. Under his leadership, Clearly Ahead has advanced numerous initiatives and projects aimed at expanding local industry, supporting entrepreneurship, and enhancing regional competitiveness.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by statewide peers to lead the PEDA’s mission to promote sound economic development policies, professional collaboration, and innovative strategies that support business growth and job creation in the Commonwealth,” Swales expressed.
The appointment reflects his longstanding commitment to strengthening communities and advancing economic development projects throughout Clearfield County and the region over the past 26 years. Swales served on the PEDA Board for the last eight years and has co-Chaired the Advocacy Committee for the past four.
As President, Swales will lead the association’s efforts to address critical issues facing Pennsylvania’s economy, advocate for effective development programs, and foster partnerships among public and private sector leaders.
Swales will serve a two-year term as President, during which he will work closely with the association’s board and membership to advance PEDA’s mission of fostering vibrant, sustainable economic growth across Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) is the statewide association of local, state, corporate and non-profit economic development professionals. For more information visit www.PEDA.org.
