Bridging Talent to Opportunity: 2026 Workforce Summit Drives Momentum for the Next Generation Workforce The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its workforce development division, Skills in Scranton, hosted the 2026 Workforce Summit, presented by Lackawanna County, which brought together a dynamic cross-section of our regional workforce ecosystem on Thursday, March 19, at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. Bringing together employers, trade unions, job seekers, educators, and high school students (275+ students, 10 public school districts, and CTCLC) in one space is no small feat, and the impact of that collaboration was clear throughout the event. The energy, engagement, and meaningful connections made are a testament to the thoughtful planning and hard work behind the scenes. Nearly 50 vendors were on-site, representing a wide range of industries including banking, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, the skilled trades, and more—providing attendees with direct access to career pathways, resources, and real-world insight into today’s evolving workforce landscape. Attendees gained valuable insights from keynote presenters Ryan Leckey, founder and CEO of Ryan Leckey Media, and Kimberlee Greenleaf, senior account executive from Audacy Pennsylvania, who delivered compelling perspectives on communication, media, and workforce engagement based on their own personal journeys. Emily Pettinto, workforce development specialist, shares, “What makes this event meaningful is that students aren’t just learning about careers, they are having real conversations with employers who are actively hiring. That level of access helps them ask better questions, make connections, and leave with a clearer understanding of what comes next.” From hands-on interactions to meaningful dialogue, the Summit reinforced a shared commitment to strengthening the workforce pipeline and creating opportunity across our region.
AssetLink Global Acquired by Geoforce Geoforce, a leader in rugged asset intelligence solutions, announced the acquisition of AssetLink Global, a 2022 graduate of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce’s entrepreneurship program, IGNITE. AssetLink is an electronic product development company specializing in low-voltage, battery-operated devices, and is an anchor tenant at The TekRidge Center. AssetLink CEO David J. Goldstein highlighted the strategic alignment between the two corporations. “Geoforce gives AssetLink the scale and resources to expand our impact without compromising what makes our solutions trusted in the public sector,” said Goldstein. “Together, we can accelerate innovation while continuing to support the mission-critical programs our customers rely on.” Since its inception, AssetLink has grown into a global leader in the next generation of cloud Internet of Things (IoT) systems. Its solutions have supported companies of all sizes, including those in the agriculture, heavy equipment and mining, oil and gas, maritime, and transportation sectors. With AssetLink, Geoforce, which is based in Plano, Texas, expands into new asset categories and deployment models, reinforcing its focus on complex industries where reliability is non-negotiable. “For AssetLink, this is about accelerating what we can build to help our customers,” said James Maclean, CEO at Geoforce. “By combining AssetLink’s engineering talent and intellectual property with that of Geoforce, we are positioned to move faster, experiment more boldly, and deliver solutions that meet the evolving needs of both industrial and government customers.” While Geoforce is based in Texas, AssetLink will remain in Jessup, meaning that all of the local jobs they have created will remain in Lackawanna County. AssetLink Global is the latest in a string of success stories that can be traced back to IGNITE. “The goal of the IGNITE program is to provide budding entrepreneurs with the resources needed to take their businesses from idea to reality,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “David Goldstein has embraced this concept, adding the intelligence and drive of his team, and is realizing the dream of business success.” The IGNITE Program serves to grow businesses and create jobs by fostering entrepreneurs and their companies in northeastern Pennsylvania through education, counseling, networking, and mentorship support. The program has created approximately 580 jobs, raised $5 million in capital, and graduated 57 companies. “We’re so excited that AssetLink was acquired. We love to see the success of our companies that have graduated from the IGNITE program,” said Mary McDermott, IGNITE program manager. “[The acquisition] shows the success of AssetLink Global, and the success of our community in NEPA and the entrepreneurship ecosystem.”
The Scranton Plan Hosts Economic Networking Event at Montage Mountain Resorts The Scranton Plan, the business development marketing division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Lackawanna County, hosted an economic development networking event at Montage Mountain Resorts on February 26. The event highlighted northeastern Pennsylvania’s exceptional quality of life and the region’s growing opportunities for long-term economic development, business attraction, and expansion. The event gathered real estate brokers, business leaders, and representatives from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. With a full day of skiing and a dinner reception, attendees gained insights into Lackawanna County’s workforce initiatives, strategic infrastructure, and overall business environment, while also enjoying meaningful networking and a firsthand look at the region. During the reception, the business community discussed The Scranton Plan 3.0, a new five-year strategy that aims to expand workforce development efforts, respond to the evolving needs of local businesses, and ensure the region’s workforce remains prepared for the future. “By bringing together real estate professionals, business leaders, and governmental partners, we were able to highlight not only the development opportunities available today but also The Chamber’s long-term economic strategy,” said Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development at The Chamber. For more information about business development opportunities in Lackawanna County, visit www.scrantonplan.com.
Lackawanna County Presents 2025 Winter Market The Lackawanna Winter Market 2025 Holiday Shopping Vendor Village on Courthouse Square is returning once again! The event will take place from Friday, December 5th, through Sunday, December 7th, offering a weekend filled with music, food, fun, and a wide variety of unique shopping opportunities from small businesses. Visitors are sure to find something special for everyone on their holiday shopping lists — and perhaps a little something for themselves as well. Guests are invited to explore the many amazing small businesses and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square. The event will feature live music, entertainment, and much more. The Lackawanna Winter Market will kick off on December’s First Friday and continue through Sunday. Event Schedule Friday, December 5th | 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Tree Lighting at 6:00 PM Saturday, December 6th | 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Sunday, December 7th | 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Lackawanna County To Present the Lackawanna Winter Market The Lackawanna Winter Market 2025 Holiday Shopping Vendor Village on Courthouse Square is returning once again! The event will take place from Friday, December 5th, through Sunday, December 7th, offering a weekend filled with music, food, fun, and a wide variety of unique shopping opportunities from small businesses. Visitors are sure to find something special for everyone on their holiday shopping lists — and perhaps a little something for themselves as well. Guests are invited to explore the many amazing small businesses and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square. The event will feature live music, entertainment, and much more. The Lackawanna Winter Market will kick off on December’s First Friday and continue through Sunday. Event Schedule Friday, December 5th | 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Tree Lighting at 6:00 PM Saturday, December 6th | 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Sunday, December 7th | 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Names Mary McDermott IGNITE Program Manager The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is proud to announce the promotion of Mary McDermott to IGNITE Program Manager. IGNITE is The Chamber’s flagship entrepreneurship and business incubator program, dedicated to growing businesses and creating jobs in Lackawanna County. Mary McDermott, IGNITE Program Manager Mary McDermott, who began her journey with IGNITE as an intern in 2022, brings a wealth of experience in program development, grant writing, and entrepreneurial support to her new role. “IGNITE has always held a special place in my heart. Starting as an intern and now stepping into the role of Program Manager feels like a full-circle moment. I’m honored to continue supporting our clients and helping the program grow and thrive,” said McDermott. As the IGNITE Program Manager, McDermott will oversee all aspects of IGNITE, including programmatic management, mentorship development, funding strategies, marketing initiatives, and special events. She will also provide direct business and technical support to IGNITE clients, offering resources such as business plan development, workforce connections, and funding opportunities. McDermott is a graduate of Penn State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing in 2022. Since joining The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, she has advanced through key roles, including workforce & leadership assistant and IGNITE Program Specialist & Grant Writer, gaining extensive experience in program coordination, client relations, and entrepreneurial development. Aaron Whitney, director of facilities and asset management, expressed enthusiasm, saying with confidence: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Mary as the new Manager of the Chamber’s IGNITE Program. Her passion for supporting local entrepreneurs and helping ideas grow will bring fresh energy and momentum to our community. With her leadership, we’re looking forward to new opportunities, stronger connections, and an even greater impact from the IGNITE Program as we continue to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship right here in Lackawanna County.” IGNITE Program plays a critical role in fostering innovation and economic development by offering entrepreneurs access to education, networking, and mentorship. Under McDermott’s leadership, the program will continue to strengthen the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem by optimizing resources and creating pathways for business growth.
Governor Josh Shapiro Announces PA SITES Funding Governor Josh Shapiro announced more than $39 million in state funding through the PA SITES (Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites) Program, supporting 11 projects across Pennsylvania aimed at preparing industrial and business sites for future growth. The PA SITES program is part of the Shapiro Administration’s 10-year economic development strategy and focuses on creating shovel-ready locations by funding essential infrastructure such as grading, utilities, and roadway access. The initiative is designed to attract new employers, encourage private investment, and create good-paying jobs. “Pennsylvania has the workforce and the potential to compete with any state,” said Governor Shapiro. “Through PA SITES, we’re investing in the sites and infrastructure that make it easier for companies to build and hire right here in our communities.” Lackawanna County: Century Development Associates LLC will receive $6 million to prepare a 230-acre former coal mine site in Mayfield and Archbald Boroughs. The project will include grading, utilities, and roadwork to make the property development-ready, with total site preparation costs estimated at $52 million and up to $100 million in total future investment. This project is expected to support hundreds of construction jobs during site preparation and create up to 1,000 long-term jobs once the property is fully developed with industrial tenants. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce team members Amy Luyster, A.J. Cimahosky, and Emily Pettinato attended the event in support of furthering economic development and the PA SITES program in Lackawanna County.
2026 Workforce Summit Announced: Bridging Talent to Opportunity The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its workforce development division, Skills in Scranton, is proud to announce the 2026 Workforce Summit, presented by Lackawanna County, to be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel in Scranton. This year’s theme, Bridging Talent to Opportunity, highlights the Summit’s mission to connect job seekers of all ages and experiences with employers across northeast Pennsylvania. From high school and college seniors preparing to enter the workforce, to seasoned professionals considering a career change, the event provides a direct link to industries including manufacturing, human services, banking, healthcare, and many more. “As Vice Chair of Skills in Scranton and Superintendent of the Scranton School District, I find it imperative that we prepare all students for life after graduation,” shared Dr. Erin Keating. “This includes not only those pursuing postsecondary education or military service, but also those who plan to enter the workforce immediately after high school.” Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, adds, “The Workforce Summit connects businesses, educators, and job seekers, creating a one-stop shop where attendees can develop a resume, practice interviewing, and apply directly to jobs—leaving with real opportunities and clear pathways to future careers.” The Workforce Summit will feature dozens of regional employers, networking opportunities, and resources for job seekers. For businesses, it is a chance to connect directly with motivated candidates who are eager to explore careers that keep them here in NEPA. The event is open to all job seekers, students, and community members who want to explore career pathways, meet employers, and access professional development resources. Regional businesses are encouraged to register now for exhibitor booth space. An early-bird discounted rate is available through October 31, 2025, which also includes a free quarter-page ad in the official Summit booklet. For more information and to secure your spot, visit ScrantonChamber.com.
TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty Launches Fourth Cohort to Accelerate Entrepreneurship in the County TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty, an initiative powered by Lackawanna County, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, and the Chamber’s entrepreneurship division IGNITE, has officially opened its fourth cohort to idea-stage, start-up, for-profit technology businesses. This 10-week business boot camp is designed to jump-start entrepreneurship in Lackawanna County by equipping local tech-based entrepreneurs with the tools, mentorship, and training needed to advance their ventures. Participants will receive in-depth instruction in business modeling, customer discovery, financial planning, and investor readiness. At the conclusion of the program, participants will have the opportunity to compete for a reimbursable $10,000 grant to offset select start-up costs. The participants in the fourth cohort are: MillionMinds by Norman Zin Notea by Alexandria Small Optimust Intelligence by Luis Vazquez Stello by Jake Howells Sweeney Education Innovations by Dr. Terry Sweeney TechA11y by Brian Jagger VoiceBridge by Jonathan Lau Zach James Music (Zack Sprowls) “The partnership between Lackawanna County and Ben Franklin Technology Partners continues to be a powerful engine for innovation and entrepreneurship in our region,” shared Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber. “At The Chamber, our mission is to attract, sustain, and grow businesses in northeastern Pennsylvania—and the TechCelerator cohort does exactly that. By equipping emerging tech entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and funding they need, we’re laying the groundwork for the next generation of business success stories right here at home.” Lackawanna County Commissioner Bill Gaughan: “With all the discussions about artificial intelligence and Lackawanna County being a potential site of data centers to sustain it, it’s important to remember that nothing can replace entrepreneurship in building the county’s, and the region’s economies. Lackawanna County is happy to participate in the innovative TechCelerator program, which supports that crucial entrepreneurship, gives prospective business leaders insight into growth and sustainability amid constant change, and helps to keep some our best talent home. Here’s to another successful year.” The TechCelerator @LackawannaCounty program has already helped launch multiple new ventures in the region, providing a proven framework for early-stage tech entrepreneurs to test ideas, build networks, and access resources that drive business success. At the conclusion of the program, participants and their businesses will give a formal presentation on the progress of their business.
