Inside Business creates its annual Power List to showcase who’s who in terms of moving the needle for the economy in Hampton Roads, whether they be the decision-makers, the influencers and even some working behind the scenes.

This year, we organized the Top 25 by types of influence or power rather than a numerical ranking. We then listed another 65 power players from various backgrounds and sectors. In researching movers and shakers, we looked at last year’s list and then looked at the headline-makers of the past year. We tried to take into account what has been on the top of most readers’ minds.

The coronavirus pandemic still continues, and so those who guide our access to health care rise to the top. The pandemic sparked conversations about the mental health of our children. The plans for Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters’ pediatric mental health hospital may have started before the virus hit, but it’s opening this year right on time, and so we take a look at those who brought the monumental project to fruition.

The ripple effects of the pandemic highlighted supply chain problems and the need for keeping goods moving, so we illustrated how Stephen Edwards and the Port of Virginia achieved success despite challenges. We also get to know retired Rear Adm. Ann Phillips, who was just sworn in as the first female U.S. maritime administrator.

It’s not often a new industry emerges and so we look at the local players working to make the region a hub for offshore wind and key regional leaders who have a role in bringing casino entertainment.

But we don’t forget the president of Virginia’s largest industrial employer that ensures the Navy gets “good ships.” And of course, we recognize the traditional power of the region’s military leaders.

Celebrity and Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams keeps working to shape the region through dialogue and planned developments. The moving of the Something in the Water festival to Washington, D.C., caused quite a stir.

Since many of us are passing by the construction to expand the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel, we feature the director of the history-making project.

The pandemic accelerated changes in how people shop, and so we look at the leaders behind the coming change in Hampton Roads in Chesapeake’s Summit Pointe and Pembroke Mall’s redevelopment. We also take a look at the banking leaders who keep the money flowing through our economy.

As power ebbs and flows, so too will the names on the list. Some longtime leaders listed on the Emeritus List will reappear in the main list as new projects make an impact, and we are watching others in new positions to see what happens. And some people just didn’t respond to our queries.

We understand not everyone making a difference for our region is on this list, and we are open to learning more about who truly wields the power in Hampton Roads. Please email your suggestions to tbozick@insidebiz.com.