Stacy Garrity’s Role in Controversial Job Offshoring and Pollution

Republican Candidate’s Corporate History Under Scrutiny

Stacy Garrity, a Republican contender in the Pennsylvania gubernatorial race, has drawn attention for her past leadership role in a company linked to offshoring jobs and environmental concerns.

From 1987 to 2021, Garrity held multiple positions at Global Tungsten & Powders, a manufacturer of refractory metal powders, culminating in her role as vice president of government affairs.

Her campaign highlights her business acumen, noting her journey from accountant to becoming one of the company’s first female vice presidents.

Garrity has previously stated to the Susquehanna Valley Center for Public Policy that her career involved global negotiations, often placing her “in a different country every month.”

Job Reductions and International Expansion

Between 2008 and 2019, Global Tungsten & Powders underwent significant workforce reductions, cutting its Towanda, PA, staff from 980 to 500 employees. This was partly achieved through voluntary furloughs accepted by about 200 workers.

During this period, the company expanded its international workforce, notably at its Czech facility, where Garrity served as managing director from 2011 to 2019. Her involvement in these strategic decisions remains unclear.

The company’s Finnish operations also grew, following Garrity’s negotiations for its acquisition in 2015. Listen to her account here.

Environmental Concerns and Regulatory Actions

Global Tungsten & Powders’ environmental practices have been contentious. In 2018, the company was labeled a super polluter by the Environmental Integrity Project. This followed an EPA fine of $22,281 after the accidental release of 213 pounds of anhydrous ammonia, an “extremely hazardous substance” according to the EPA.

Furthermore, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is investigating allegations of the company discharging 100 gallons of naphthalene into the Susquehanna River, a crucial water source for millions.

Currently serving as Pennsylvania treasurer, Garrity aims to challenge Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro, with the endorsement of former President Donald Trump.

Read more about the story on American Journal News.