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140 Years Strong: The Innovations and People of Westinghouse

January 13, 2026 by Westinghouse Electric Company
Categories: 140 Year History

As we celebrate our 140th anniversary, we’re highlighting our technological breakthroughs and legacy by shining a spotlight on our innovations that shaped the nuclear industry and the people whose stories inspire our future.

Meet Cindy Pezze, who worked at Westinghouse for more than 35 years before retiring, most notably serving as Vice President of Global Technology Development and Chief Technology Officer (CTO). As CTO, Cindy propelled Westinghouse technology forward, championed customer success and solidified Westinghouse’s global reputation as a powerhouse in nuclear innovation. She provided leadership to the engineering business responsible for the advanced AP1000® modular reactor – the newest nuclear reactor in operation!

FACT: The sixth AP1000 reactor began operation in 2024 at Plant Vogtle in the state of Georgia. Built 30% faster and at 20% lower cost than the previous unit, the AP1000 generates enough electricity to power 750,000 homes.

“Where would the world be without alternating-current (AC) power and air brakes on trains? That’s where Westinghouse started,” said Cindy. “Just in the span of time that I was with Westinghouse, the AP1000 was licensed and built… it’s the only reactor out there with passive safety features and that came from innovation within Westinghouse.

What made my time at Westinghouse really special were the people I met along the way. I couldn’t have asked for anything better,” she continued. “I worked with teams of brilliant people across the globe, traveling and interfacing with customers in the U.S. and around the world.

As we celebrate 140 years of innovation and impact, our story continues to unfold. Join us throughout the year as we spotlight the milestones, people and breakthroughs that define Westinghouse — there’s much more to come, so keep an eye out for the next chapter!

Share your Westinghouse journey on social media using #Westinghouse140 and tagging our social media accounts: