Knoxville to Host Kickoff Event with New Pilot CEO Emphasizing Support for United Way

Knoxville Welcomes Pilot’s New CEO as He Champions United Way

Knoxville, TN – Knoxville is set to see a new wave of community support as Adam Wright, the new CEO of Pilot, steps into his role with enthusiasm for local involvement. On Friday, September 6, 2024, Wright will host a kickoff event at Pilot’s headquarters for team leaders involved with United Way. This event marks the continuation of Pilot’s long-standing partnership with United Way and reinforces the company’s commitment to the greater Knoxville community.

A Star-Studded Kickoff Event

The kickoff event will feature several prominent speakers, including:

• Matt Ryerson, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Knoxville
• John Tolsma, the chair for the 2024 United Way campaign
• Tony Vitello, head baseball coach at the University of Tennessee

This star-studded lineup highlights the importance of community collaboration and aims to inspire others in Knoxville to get involved.

Pilot’s Ongoing Support for United Way

In addition to the kickoff event, Pilot Travel Centers is actively collecting donations for United Way. From September 1 to September 11, customers at selected locations can choose to round up their purchase to the nearest dollar at check-out. The participating locations include:

• Pilot #270 – 314 Lovell Road
• Flying J #722 – 800 Watt Road
• Pilot #219 – 7210 Strawberry Plains Pike

This initiative emphasizes how every small contribution can make a significant impact on the community’s welfare.

About Adam Wright

Adam Wright became the chief executive officer at Pilot in May 2023. Despite his high-profile position, he has maintained a low public profile until now. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Wright has a background that reflects resilience and determination. He has spent years in executive roles, including serving as the chief operating officer of Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Wright began his professional journey as an intern with Berkshire Hathaway Energy in 1996.

Wright isn’t just a business leader; his history as a college and professional athlete adds a compelling element to his character. He was an All-American running back for the University of Nebraska at Omaha and later played as a fullback for the New York Giants in the early 2000s. His sports career is filled with stories of making tough decisions and putting in hard work, something he translates into his corporate life.

A Family Man

Outside of work, Wright is a devoted family man. He lives in Knoxville with his wife, Sabrina, and their two children, Kenedy and Adam. Kenedy is a recent graduate of Iowa State University, while Adam is a junior at the University of Michigan. The family’s contributions to their respective communities reaffirm Wright’s commitment to making a positive impact wherever they go.

Community Leaders Encourage Engagement

The upcoming kickoff event comes at a crucial time when community engagement is essential. With many challenges facing local organizations, Wright’s leadership and support for United Way could mobilize resources and enhance community welfare.

As Pilot continues to play an essential role in Knoxville’s fabric, Adam Wright’s dedication to community causes is evident. His efforts through United Way are set to inspire others in the business community to step up and participate in similar initiatives.

Knoxville welcomes Adam Wright, looking forward to his contributions and the continued legacy of Pilot in making the community a better place for everyone.