HARRISBURG, PA — April 28, 2026 — Today, the American Petroleum Institute (API) appointed Nicole Luciano of Harrisburg as Associate Director of API Pennsylvania. Luciano brings over 10 years of public policy, advocacy, legislative and regulatory analysis, coalition building and utility industry experience and will support API’s mission to promote safety and influence public policy in support of a strong U.S. oil and natural gas industry.
“Nicole’s deep expertise in energy policy, proven leadership in association management and solid track record of building effective coalitions has earned her a strong reputation and makes her an exceptional addition to our team,” said API Pennsylvania Executive Director Stephanie Catarino Wissman. “She brings a thoughtful, solutions-focused approach that will play a key role in advancing our mission, driving economic growth across the Commonwealth and delivering value for our stakeholders.”
As Associate Director, Luciano will advocate for a robust oil and natural gas industry through collaboration with key constituencies and public policy engagement in Pennsylvania and West Virginia on behalf of API.
Before joining API, Luciano served the Energy Association of Pennsylvania as Director of Policy and previously as the Manager of Policy and Research, responsible for managing legislative and regulatory issues, industrywide coalition building and long-term strategic planning. She also served as a Public Policy Analyst for LeadingAge PA and a government affairs professional for the Insurance Agents and Brokers association, where she conducted outreach and member education while tracking legislation.
“I am thrilled to join the talented team at API Pennsylvania and to represent an industry that is so vital to our region's prosperity,” said Luciano. “My focus will be on building meaningful collaborations with stakeholders and policymakers in both Pennsylvania and West Virginia to advance a robust energy agenda that supports our members and benefits the communities we serve.”
Luciano holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Gettysburg College, graduating summa cum laude, and a Master’s degree in Political Science from Lehigh University. She also holds professional certifications from the U.S. Chamber’s Institute of Organization Management and the American Society of Association Executives as a Certified Association Executive.
About API Pennsylvania
The American Petroleum Institute Pennsylvania (API Pennsylvania) is a state affiliate office of the American Petroleum Institute (API). API represents all segments of America’s oil and natural gas industry, supporting nearly 11 million U.S. jobs. With approximately 600 members, API companies produce, process and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy. Founded in 1919, API has developed over 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Learn more at API.org.
