Sadly, we report the demise of our previous editor, Perry Pascarella, on our platform.
Perry J. Pascarella, a renowned figure in the publishing and management sectors, passed away last week at the age of 91. Known for his influential role as executive editor and later chief editor of IndustryWeek magazine, Pascarella played a significant part in the brand's early development and rebranding from Steel magazine.
From 1970, Pascarella guided IndustryWeek through its transformation, serving as chief editor from 1986 until 1989. Afterward, he became vice president at Penton Business Media, overseeing all of its publications.
Pascarella's legacy extends beyond the realm of industry journalism. His leadership style, characterised by humanistic management, encouragement of editorial independence, and fostering an environment of high standards, open dialogue, and mutual respect, can be seen as indirectly contributing to enhancing workforce skills and professional standards in the industries he influenced.
However, there is no explicit record of Pascarella spearheading or directly contributing to formal education improvements or workforce training initiatives.
In recent times, the workforce is experiencing a significant shortage in reading, writing, math, and technical skills. Studies have shown that the educational product is inadequate for success in today's world. As a result, companies are engaging in remedial education for the thousands of people who need it. They are also considering ensuring they can hire well-educated people and improving on-the-job training.
Industry leaders have expressed concern about the quality of education and training, and businesses are seen as the education sector's major customers. Companies will make the public aware of the value of education and the coming socioeconomic crisis to demand improvement.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve. The memorial service for Pascarella will take place at Bay Presbyterian Church on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 11 a.m.
John DiPaola, a vice president with the website's parent company, described Pascarella as a legend in the industry. John McClenahen, a former editor of the website, also emphasised Pascarella's kindness and humanity as defining characteristics.
Pascarella was a graduate of Kenyon College and served in the U.S. Naval Reserve before starting his career as a writer and editor. He is survived by his daughters Elizabeth Ferrito and Cindy, four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. His wife, Carol, preceded him in death, with whom he was together for almost 70 years.
[1] Ten Commandments of the Workplace, Perry J. Pascarella, 2000.
Perry J. Pascarella's leadership in the industry, characterized by humanistic management, encouragement of editorial independence, and fostering an environment of high standards, open dialogue, and mutual respect, can be seen as indirectly contributing to personal growth and self-development through professional standards enhancement in the industries he influenced. Despite not having a direct record of spearheading formal education improvements or workforce training initiatives, his principles in 'Ten Commandments of the Workplace' could serve as a guide for learning and development within companies, particularly in addressing the current workforce skills shortage.
