Black History Month Community Champion Spotlight: Corey E. DeRico

This Black History Month, we’re celebrating community champions, who happen to be part of the talented staff and board at the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh.

Corey E. DeRico is the URA’s Director of Quality Control and Facilities Management. He leads a team that is crucial to the success of developments and home improvement projects throughout the city. A Veteran and former firefighter/EMT, Corey has spent his last five years with the URA, and before that, 10 years serving Pittsburghers through the City of Pittsburgh’s Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections. Hear from him:

What community impact and/or outcome are you most proud of achieving in your time with URA? 

The community impact and outcome that I am most proud of achieving in my time with the URA is the large number of homes and businesses that have been renovated through URA programs. In conjunction with these efforts, we’ve focused on supporting women- and minority-owned businesses. The phone calls and emails that I receive thanking my staff for their support and hard work are priceless.

What advice would you give to your younger self or to other young Black people in Pittsburgh? 

The advice I would give to my younger self and other young Black people in Pittsburgh, or in other communities, is to, “Walk by Faith and not by Sight.” Life will get hard, and often times it will seem unfair, overwhelming, and stacked against you, but do not give up. Trust God, and remember you are from Pittsburgh and are built for the challenge. You are forged in Iron, Steel, and Faith!!!

What inspires you while working here and with the Pittsburgh community? 

I am inspired by the dedication, commitment and teamwork of the URA’s Quality Control & Inspections team and our ability to overcome adversity while continuing to deliver Platinum Service to each other, the organization, and the community we serve. Not letting my Quality Control family down is what inspires me to work hard and to never quit.

Connect with Corey on LinkedIn.