by Elizabeth Speed Kabus | photography by Laura Petrilla

They’re raising money and tearing down barriers. Entertaining, healing and educating. Many have spirits of innovation and entrepreneurship coursing through their veins. Others are driven by the chance to make a difference in many lives … or just one.

They’re 40 young people under the age of 40 who make Pittsburgh a better place to live, work or play. We received nearly 300 nominations, and judges narrowed the list to the people profiled here. The honorees were selected for their professional achievements, involvement and overall positive influence on our region. Each contributes to western Pennsylvania in a unique way in his or her community.

This year, we’ve included an honorary 41st, which literally changed the landscape of Pittsburgh. But at less than one year old, the CONSOL Energy Center has a ways to go before aging out of this list. The multipurpose facility that’s home to the Pittsburgh Penguins seemed to be an appropriate backdrop against which to photograph this year’s group of movers and shakers.

So, for the 12th year—and going strong—Pittsburgh magazine and our partner, the Pittsburgh Urban Magnet Project, are proud to present the 40 Under 40 for 2010.