Community-oriented journalist joins Technical.ly to boost Pittsburgh reporting

Community, community, community — that’s the word you’ll hear the most from local reporter Alice Crow. 

Her approach to journalism? Being a part of the community. To the tech scene? Building community. To her hometown? Community. 

At Technical.ly, it’s most of what we do, too, and that’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Crow as our new Pittsburgh lead reporter.

A Pittsburgh native, Crow attended Chatham University and has worked closely with local publications like the Pittsburgh City Paper and the now-defunct Gazette 2.0. 

But her knowledge of the local landscape extends even beyond that, as an intern for the wide-reaching Pittsburgh Media Partnership that connects local outlets around town (which Technical.ly recently joined!). 

Her local journalism experience brought her to Texas, working for the Waco Tribune-Herald, but she couldn’t stay away long. 

Back in Pittsburgh eager to reconnect, Crow joins Technical.ly at a pivotal time for its coverage. In April, Technical.ly set out to revitalize our approach to the region, and since then, started our reach into 11 Southwestern Pennsylvania counties that shape the local scene. 

That’s no easy task, but what’s clear about Crow’s grit is that she’s up to the feat. 

Still fresh in the role, you’ll find Crow around town already, becoming your go-to resource for local tech, innovation and economic development news. Drop a note via LinkedIn or email, sign up for her newsletter, read her first story for Technical.ly and, as always, send tips.

Hear from Crow on her plan to become a part of Pittsburgh’s tech and innovation scene, and her thoughts on the power of local journalism. 

How did you get into journalism?

I had a fondness for journalism at a young age, especially audio journalism. I listened to NPR on my way to school each morning, and it was often playing on our kitchen radio when I got home in the evenings. 

While I always loved the idea of being a journalist – often practicing my imaginary reporter sign-off – I didn’t think it was something I could realistically pursue. 

During my first semester at Chatham University, I attended a pitch meeting for the student newspaper, The Communiqué, to float the idea of a school radio station and somehow left with a story assignment. After struggling my way through that first story, I was hooked. I fell in love with answering questions, dispelling rumors and being a part of an organization full of curious people. 

My involvement with the student newspaper snowballed, and I became editor-in-chief the following year. I went on to intern for the Pittsburgh Media Partnership, an invaluable resource for journalists in this city, and write for multiple publications. Given the uncertainty in this industry, I wasn’t sure I would be able to work as a reporter after graduation, so I’m grateful every day for the work I get to do. 

What excites you about covering the ‘double niche’ of local news and the innovation economy?

I’ve witnessed the erosion of local journalism firsthand. The first publication I had the opportunity to write for, Gazette 2.0, covered local news of the townships and boroughs surrounding Pittsburgh. 

Unfortunately, the paper had to close its doors last year, a fate that too many hyper-local publications have faced in recent years. This experience reinforces my belief that, despite our technological connectivity, we often lack true community, and local journalism is essential for bridging that gap. 

What draws me to Technical.ly’s mission is the belief that life-changing innovation can come from anyone, anywhere. I’m eager to meet those inspiring individuals, share their stories and highlight the diverse voices within our communities. 

By covering this intersection, I hope to provide the necessary information and resources to empower local innovators, helping them reach their full potential. 

What trends or topics are you following in Pittsburgh right now?

As a former Pittsburgh Public School District student, I’m following the proposed closure of over a dozen schools and other significant changes to the district. 

I often worry the school choice movement will continue to erode public education and the most negatively impacted will be under-resourced schools that serve the most vulnerable communities in our city. Public education is a powerful tool for connecting people of all backgrounds and providing a pathway to an improved quality of life for all. 

I’m eternally grateful for the doors my public education opened for me and don’t want to see them close behind me for the next generation. 

On a more optimistic note, I’m excited to see bike lanes and better road infrastructure pop up across Pittsburgh, making the city safer and more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists. 

As an avid walker, one of my favorite things to do is explore the city on foot. While Pittsburgh is already a remarkably walkable city, I’m thrilled about this trend making it even more inviting. 

Improved walkability not only promotes the health of the people who live here but also contributes to the wellbeing of the planet. It also fosters a sense of connectedness among residents, encouraging community interactions and a shared appreciation for the city’s beauty. It’s a win-win for everyone! 

You just moved back to the area. What did you miss the most?

What I missed most about Pittsburgh is the community. 

Having been born and raised in the city, I never fully appreciated how vital that sense of belonging was until I moved away. I’m incredibly grateful for my family, friends and neighbors who have shaped who I am and my life here. 

Pittsburgh is large enough to offer endless opportunities to discover new people and experiences, yet small enough that I often run into familiar faces, which can be both a blessing and a challenge. I’ve learned (many times) that you’re only as good as your network, and I’m excited to reconnect and build new bridges as I settle back into the rhythm of this vibrant city. 

Where can we find you when you’re not working?

You can probably find me enjoying lunch at my favorite spot, People’s Indian Restaurant in Bloomfield or taking a walk at the Highland Park Reservoir, rain or shine.