Soft "a" sound in American pronunciation of "pan"

Is there a type of American accent where a softer 'a' sound in words like "pan" and "ban" is used? This soft 'a' makes it sound more like "pahn" or "bahn," compared with the way I am used to hearing it and saying it. I first noticed this softer 'a' in a co-worker who is from Southern California and thought maybe it was just her own unique way of speaking. But, now I have noticed it from other people in online content. Could it be a young person thing? (they are all young and female). I am from the east coast and pronounce things a little more nasally, so maybe I am just picking up on that contrast. Anyway, curious if there is anything specific going on with the "a" pronunciation. Thanks!

Edit: IPA explanation - the soft sound I am referring to (ɑ) is like the vowel sounds in in 'father' or 'not'. The pronunciation I think is normal would be closer to the sounds in 'cat' or 'mad' (æ). Hope that helps clarify!