PETREY THE BEST: Tim Petrey, CEO of HD Growth Partners, was named a 2025 Best-In-State CPA by Forbes magazine and a 2024 “40 Under 40” honoree by CPA Practice Advisor.

These recognitions celebrate Petrey’s innovative leadership and lasting contributions to the accounting and advisory industry, the company said in a news release.

“I’m honored to have made it onto these lists alongside many remarkable young professionals,” Petrey said. “I’m insanely grateful for what the public accounting industry has done for my career and my community.”

Under his leadership, HD Growth Partners has expanded its reach and service offerings, becoming a trusted adviser to small businesses and nonprofits across the country. Located in Liberty, the firm specializes in bookkeeping, controlling, fractional CFO services, tax maintenance and long-term financial strategy.

Forbes produced the inaugural America’s Best-In-State CPAs list. Those nominated were rated on a range of weighted criteria, including expertise, innovation, thought leadership, experience, and service to the community and to their profession.

The 40 Under 40 program honors professionals who are shaping the future of the profession through their commitment to technology, leadership and community impact.

HOUSEHOLDER JOINS BURGAN: Burgan Real Estate has announced the addition of Maria Householder to its staff.

“With her understanding of the local market, combined with years of hands-on experience, Maria is fully equipped to help her clients make informed, confident decisions throughout the buying / selling process,” said Patrick Burgan, co-owner and broker of Burgan Real Estate. “We’re thrilled that Maria chose to join Burgan because her experience and enthusiasm can be felt in every conversation between her and her clients.”

Householder has lived in Northeast Ohio for most of her life. In her free time, Householder enjoys spending time with her husband of 30 years, Brian, and their three children. While a student at Youngstown State University, Householder played on the women’s volleyball team from 1990-1994.

“I chose to become a real estate agent because of a genuine love for the entire buying and selling process as well as the chance to help others on their journey to home ownership,” Householder said.

7 17 ANNOUNCES PROMOTION: Sara Joseph has been promoted to manager of 7 17 Credit Union’s Canfield branch. Joseph earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Youngstown State University and has been with 7 17 for six years. In her new position, she will oversee member service and maintain daily operations of the branch.

CAPRIOTTI’S TO OPEN IN NILES: Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop has announced the opening of a new location Tuesday in Niles. The shop is slated to open at 2484 Niles Cortland Rd SE.

Franchisee Amber Walley is the owner and operator of the Niles location, along with her Canfield shop.

She’s joined by her brother, Preston, a local contractor, who played a key role in bringing the restaurants to life. Their mother, Sue, manages bookkeeping.

Their efforts were recently recognized with Amber Walley being named the 2024 International Franchise Association Franchisee of the Year, an honor celebrating her leadership and dedication to Capriotti’s. “Bringing Capriotti’s to Niles and the residents of Trumbull County has always been a dream of mine,” Walley said. “This community has welcomed us with open arms, and I’m committed to providing incredible food and a welcoming atmosphere while also giving back to the people who make this town so special.”

FIRE SCIENCE DEGREE: Beginning in the fall, Youngstown State University will offer an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science degree.

Offered online through the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, the program is designed to meet the demand for professionally educated public safety personnel while remaining grounded in the values and needs of local communities.

The curriculum is built around the evolving nature of the fire service, incorporating traditional emergency response and modern public safety concepts. Students will study fire behavior, building construction, occupational safety, data-informed decision-making and leadership in complex environments. The program was designed with flexibility in mind, making it particularly accessible to working professionals already serving in fire departments, EMS and emergency management roles.

“This isn’t just about fire suppression,” said Carl DeCarlo, program coordinator and retired fire chief. “This is about building safer communities through leadership, science and systems thinking. The fire service has evolved, and this program reflects that evolution.”

The program also emphasizes key areas such as firefighter mental health, cancer prevention protocols, emergency management and resilience planning.

For more information, visit https://explore.ysu.edu/bitonte-college-of-health-human-services/associate-of-science-in-fire-science/.