Manufacturing Millennial to Headline NEPIRC’s Annual Manufacturing Day Best Practices Summit & Expo When younger generations think of manufacturing, many often picture dimly lit, dangerous and outdated work environments, but that is not a fair or accurate view of today’s manufacturing scene according to industry advocate Jake Hall, known as the “Manufacturing Millennial.” He is on a mission to educate younger people by meeting them where they are—on social media. Hall will address the future of manufacturing, effective social media use for manufacturers and much more when the Northeastern Pennsylvania Industrial Resource Center (NEPIRC) welcomes him as keynote speaker at its 2025 Manufacturing Day (MFG DAY) Best Practices Summit & Expo—the region’s largest manufacturing trade show and networking event of its kind—on Oct. 3, at Mohegan Pennsylvania in Wilkes-Barre. “We’re so excited to have Jake Hall as our MFG DAY keynote speaker addressing the topic of ‘The Future of Manufacturing: Technology and Workforce.’ Jake is an influential advocate for manufacturing, automation and skilled trades. His content is effective at educating the future workforce about the manufacturing industry, which is why we believe our Manufacturing Day attendees will be energized by his message and gain valuable insight,” said Chelsey Coslett-Traver, NEPIRC’s manager of marketing & stakeholder engagement. Considered one of the loudest voices in the industry and awarded by LinkedIn as the Top Voice in Robotics, Automation and Manufacturing, Hall is helping companies future-proof their businesses with technology and attract the workforce of tomorrow. Coslett-Traver said Hall is helping to revolutionize the way people and companies present through social media. With more than 100,000 followers and 150,000,000+ views on his content channels, Hall ignites conversations about the latest in manufacturing and automation to excite the current and future workforce about the manufacturing industry. Coslett-Traver added that Hall’s desire to influence the future workforce aligns closely with the goals of NEPIRC’s innovative Manufacturing Ambassador Dream Team initiative that increases high school and college student awareness of outstanding careers available within Pennsylvania’s advanced manufacturing field. She said Hall helps to reach the future workforce with programs like his “Discover Manufacturing” and MiCareerQuest, which introduce 20,000 high school students to manufacturing each year in west Michigan. In addition to delivering the keynote presentation, Hall will also lead a breakout session entitled, “The Power of Social Media: What You Should Do.” MFG DAY sponsorship opportunities are available but going quickly! If interested, visit www.nepirc.com/mfgday to learn more and complete and submit the confirmation form required to lock in sponsorship. Additionally, NEPIRC is proud to announce that InnoTek Computer Consulting of Bloomsburg is this year’s Presenting Sponsor. Tickets are also on sale and start at $75. If you want to learn from industry experts and connect with people who are making a difference in the manufacturing industry, then this is a must-attend event! This year’s MFG DAY will heavily focus on manufacturing technology, AI and automation. Visit www.nepirc.com/mfgday to purchase tickets. For more information, email Chelsey Coslett-Traver at Chelsey@NEPIRC.com or visit NEPIRC’s Manufacturing Day webpage at www.NEPIRCMFGDAY.com.
Johnson College to Host 32nd Annual Golf Tournament Johnson College will host its 32nd Annual Johnson College Open on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Blue Ridge Trail Golf Club in Mountain Top, PA. All proceeds from the annual golf tournament support the Johnson College Presidential Scholarship Fund. Last year’s tournament raised over $50,000 to support the Presidential Scholarship Fund. The scholarships are presented each fall to full-time students demonstrating financial need to finish their educational journey. To learn more about this event, visit johnson.edu/golf. Sponsors of this event to date include: Presenting Sponsor: The Fresh Grocer – Owned and Operated by Gerrity’s Platinum Sponsor: NET Credit Union and ShopRite Gold Sponsors: Eastern Atlantic Regional Council of Carpenters; Five Star Equipment; Fastenal Company; L.R. Costanzo Company, Inc.; Peoples Security Bank & Trust; PNC Bank; Simplex Homes Silver Sponsor: American Eagle Outfitters Cart Sponsor: Toyota of Scranton Breakfast Sponsor: Boyle Construction Lunch Sponsor: Cable Associates Cocktail Hour Sponsor: Schiff’s Marketplace Dinner Sponsor: Sordoni Construction Services, Inc. Beverage Cart Sponsor: Widmer Signs / PA Signs Golf Gift Sponsor: eCampus.com Hole-in-One Sponsor: Tasca Ford Mulligan Sponsor: Topp Business Solutions Hit & Hold Sponsor: Nunzi’s Advertising Exclusive Tee Sponsors: Ability Recovery Service, LLC; Action Lift; CHA Consulting; Constantino’s Catering; Greenman-Pedersen, Inc.; I.B.E.W. Local #81; Knowles Associates, LLC; McCarthy Tire; Mesko Glass; MotorWorld; NRG Controls; Postler & Jaeckle; Scandale Associated Builders & Engineers, Ltd.; Simona America Industries; Stone Office Equipment, Inc; Topp Business Solutions; Torbik Safe & Lock, Inc.; Waste Management; Presidential Scholarship Sponsors: Ashley Machine & Tool Co.; Candy Frye ’94; Citizens Savings Bank, Czachor Electric; Highland Associates; Mesko Glass and Mirror Co., Inc.; Topp Business Solutions; Torbik Safe & Lock, Inc. Platinum Marketing Sponsor: Condron Sweda Advertising Advertising Sponsor: Lamar Advertising Gold Print Sponsor: Sprint Print, Inc.
Johnson College’s 8th Annual Carpentry Auction Raises over $4,000 for Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania Johnson College Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology program hosted its Annual Carpentry Auction at the College’s Scranton campus on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. The event raised over $4,000 to benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania in support of its mission to provide excellence in the assessment and treatment of child abuse and neglect. More than 70 items created by Carpentry & Cabinetmaking Technology students were available for auction. There was a wide variety of woodwork, including chessboards, tables, chests, benches, and more. Many of the items were made from repurposed materials.
Jamie Stracham Promoted to Branch Manager of our Hamlin Office Kate Bryant, President, and CEO of The Honesdale National Bank, has announced Jamie Stracham has been promoted to Branch Manager of the Hamlin Office. In making the announcement Bryant stated, “Jamie’s dedication and customer focused mindset make her a true asset to our team.” She continued, “Her promotion to Branch Manager is well-deserved, and we look forward to her ongoing positive impact for our customers and employees as she assumes her new responsibilities.” As Branch Manager, Stracham will be responsible for supervising and developing staff, driving business growth within the branch, overseeing daily branch operations, and maintaining customer service standards. Stracham started her career in the banking industry in 2017. At HNB she quickly grew in her role, starting as a Teller at the Montdale Office and within six months, earning her CSR title. In 2022, she was promoted to Head Teller at the Eynon Office, and in 2024, she advanced to the position of Assistant Branch Manager at the same location. She also holds a notary license. In commenting on her new role at the Bank, Stracham noted, “Working at HNB has allowed me to grow both professionally and personally; it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I started as a Teller and worked hard to reach my current position. I am grateful to everyone who mentored and supported me on this journey.” Outside of the Bank, she serves as a Board Member and Treasurer for St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Scott Township. In her free time, she enjoys riding ATVs, spending time with her four dogs, and embracing the outdoors, especially in the summer. She also loves attending concerts. The Honesdale National Bank, established in 1836, holds the distinction of being the area’s oldest independent community bank headquartered in Northeastern PA, with offices in Wayne, Pike, Susquehanna, Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. The Honesdale National Bank offers personal banking, business banking and wealth solutions. For more information on HNB’s products and services, visit www.hnbbank.bank.
Greater Scranton YMCA Urges Community to Prioritize Water Safety by Joining National “Phones Down, Eyes Up™” Campaign The Greater Scranton YMCA is proud to participate in the launch of YMCA of the USA’s National Phones Down, Eyes Up™ campaign this May in honor of National Water Safety Month. This campaign is focused on reducing distractions around water and raising awareness about the importance of vigilance when families visit pools and waterfronts this summer. Statistics from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance show that 88% of drownings occur with at least one adult present, highlighting the critical need for caregivers to stay alert when supervising children around water. The Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign encourages families to keep their phones away and stay focused while supervising children at pools, lakes, beaches, or other bodies of water. “The Greater Scranton YMCA is excited to be part of this important national campaign,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “People think they’ll hear someone if they’re struggling in the water, because that’s what we see in tv and movies,” says Surridge. “In actuality, drowning is silent and can happen in as little as 30 seconds. When we’re looking at our phones, we don’t see what’s happening around us.” As part of the Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign, the Greater Scranton YMCA is calling on families to designate a “Water Watcher”— an adult whose sole responsibility is to supervise children near water, free from distractions like phones, conversations, or alcohol. “We know how easily distractions can happen around water, but just one moment of inattention can have serious consequences. The Greater Scranton YMCA is committed to empowering families with the tools and information they need to stay safe around water.” The campaign’s website, PhonesDownEyesUp.org, offers a variety of helpful resources for families, including digital safety materials, a pledge to commit to water safety, and educational tools to help families stay safe this summer. Families who take the pledge will have access to resources such as phone wallpaper reminders, monthly safety tips, and downloadable Water Watcher lanyards. For more information on how you and your family can become Water Watchers and take part in the Phones Down, Eyes Up campaign in our community, visit phonesdowneyesup.org.
Commonwealth Health Physician Network Welcomes Orthopedic Surgeon to Dunmore Commonwealth Health Physician Network is proud to welcome Michael Levy, D.O., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, to its growing team of experienced providers. With more than 20 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Levy offers comprehensive care in general orthopedics, fracture care, joint replacement, and sports injuries. Dr. Levy is committed to helping patients regain mobility and return to the activities they love. He offers both traditional and minimally invasive surgical options tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals. His patient-centered approach emphasizes shared decision-making, education, and long-term wellness. Dr. Levy is seeing patients at 1000 Meade Street, Suite 106, Dunmore, PA 18512.
Allied Services Integrated Health System Announces New Board Member Peter J. Moses, Esquire, Appointed to Allied Services Integrated Health System Board of Directors Allied Services Integrated Health System is proud to announce the appointment of Attorney Peter J. Moses to its Board of Directors, effective May 2025. The appointment was approved by the Board in recognition of Mr. Moses’s dedication to public service and his deep ties to the Northeastern Pennsylvania community. This appointment holds particular personal meaning for Mr. Moses, whose late father, John Peter Moses, had a longstanding connection to Allied Services and received compassionate care from the organization before his passing. The opportunity to contribute to the mission of Allied Services is a deeply personal honor. “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there,” shared Peter J. Moses, Esquire Mr. Moses brings to the Board a unique blend of legal expertise, civic leadership, and heartfelt dedication to community-centered care. His experience and perspective will support Allied Services’ ongoing commitment to excellence in healthcare and rehabilitation.
Geisinger Career Program Expands to Include Respiratory Therapy Geisinger’s Nursing and Health Sciences Scholars Program aims to fill critical nursing and health sciences roles while providing more career opportunities to Geisinger employees Geisinger is helping more employees follow their calling to care for others by adding a respiratory therapy pathway to Geisinger’s Nursing and Health Sciences Scholars Program. Previously called Geisinger’s Nursing Scholars Program, this career development program financially and professionally supports employees pursuing a career in nursing or select health sciences. “We’re very excited to add respiratory therapy to our Nursing and Health Sciences Scholars Program,” said Wayne Williams, clinical manager of respiratory services at Geisinger Community Medical Center. “This is a big step for our team and profession. It shows the significant role our respiratory therapists play in the care of our patients and our commitment to working across different disciplines to improve outcomes. This change reflects our dedication to building a skilled workforce ready to take on the evolving needs of our patients.” According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of respiratory therapists is expected to increase faster than average over the next decade. The aging baby boom generation is leading to an older population that tends to have the most respiratory conditions, including pneumonia, COPD or other diseases commonly associated with aging. How the program works Open to employees starting day one of employment, the Nursing and Health Sciences Scholars Program covers part of the cost of pursuing any of the following careers in return for committing to work at Geisinger: Registered nurse (RN) – $40,000 in financial assistance with a three-year work commitment as an inpatient RN Respiratory therapist – $30,000 in financial assistance with a three-year work commitment Surgical technologist – $22,500 in financial assistance with a two-and-a-half-year work commitment Licensed practical nurse (LPN) – $20,000 in financial assistance with a two-year work commitment as an inpatient LPN Certified medical assistant (CMA) – $7,000 in financial assistance with a two-year work commitment as an outpatient CMA While supporting employee career and professional goals, the program also mitigates a shortage of nurses and critical health sciences team members across Geisinger. Since its launch in 2021, the program has helped more than 400 employees further their career journeys. To set the nursing scholars up for success, the program offers guidance in choosing a school and type of degree. Geisinger nurses and leaders also offer mentorship support. “Many of our employees are eager to pursue nursing or other health careers, but need additional support to do so,” said Janet Tomcavage, RN, executive vice president and chief nursing executive at Geisinger. “Changing careers is a major decision and studying while working is a huge undertaking — not to mention the cost of it all. The Nursing and Health Sciences Program has been a difference-maker for so many of our employees by providing the financial, professional and well-being support they need to succeed. I’m incredibly proud of our scholars and I’m grateful to Geisinger for investing in our employees and their futures.” The Geisinger program serves as an entry point into the health care profession for high school students or anyone considering a career in nursing or health sciences. Applications to the program are accepted throughout the year. Geisinger employees who are already in school to pursue one of the career pathways included in the program can apply up to 12 months before their anticipated graduation date. All Geisinger School of Nursing students can take advantage of the program, regardless of employment status, if they commit to work at Geisinger upon graduation. Community members who are not Geisinger employees can apply for available positions at Geisinger and qualify for the program starting on employment. Visit geisinger.org/nursingscholars for details on Geisinger’s Nursing and Health Sciences Scholars Program.
The Wright Center’s Dr. Doug Klamp Gives Message for National Nurses Week I don’t need to tell you how vital nurses are to our health care system. They are, without question, the most essential of essential personnel – skilled, compassionate, dedicated, and absolutely indispensable to physicians like me. Nurses are the ones at the bedside day and night, answering calls, comforting patients, coordinating care, and often serving as the bridge between patients and the rest of the care team. Their impact is immeasurable. That’s why I’m especially glad to recognize National Nurses Month – and more specifically, National Nurses Week, observed annually from May 6-12. It’s a time to thank nurses for their tireless efforts, professional excellence, and the deep humanity they bring to everything they do. The idea for the observance came from Dorothy Sutherland, an employee of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, who sent a letter to President Dwight Eisenhower in 1953 proposing a specially designated day for nurses for that October. While Eisenhower never signed the proclamation, the first National Nurses Week was celebrated in October 1954 – the 100th anniversary of nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale’s service in the Crimean War. It took two more decades before the observance gained official recognition. In 1974, President Richard Nixon issued a proclamation designating a National Nurses Week. Then, in 1981, the state of New Mexico took it a step further by declaring May 6 – Nightingale’s birthday – as a National Recognition Day for Nurses. President Ronald Reagan formalized this recognition the following year. This year, the American Nurses Enterprise is promoting the theme “The Power of Nurses.” It’s a fitting tribute to the remarkable contributions that nurses make every day – often while navigating enormous challenges like staffing shortages, public health emergencies, and increasing demands on their time and expertise. At The Wright Centers for Community Health and Graduate Medical Education, we’re proud to celebrate our exceptional team of nurses and nurse practitioners. They are not just caregivers – they are educators, advocates, and leaders in every sense of the word. In fact, several of our nurse practitioners serve as clinical leads in our community health centers, managing teams and ensuring all of our patients – from pediatrics to geriatrics – receive affordable, high-quality, whole-person primary health services. Recognizing the need to prepare more nurses for advanced practice roles, The Wright Center launched a 12-month Nurse Practitioner Fellowship in Family Medicine, one of the few programs of its kind in Pennsylvania. Modeled after the pioneering initiative created by Community Health Center Inc., in Connecticut, the fellowship provides newly certified nurse practitioners with intensive hands-on experience and mentoring during their first year in practice. The fellows rotate through clinical settings focused on pediatrics, mental and behavioral health, infectious diseases, and addiction and recovery services at our Clarks Summit, Mid Valley, and Scranton health centers. This program is a testament to our commitment to developing the physician, nursing, and interprofessional health care workforce that America needs to address gaps in primary care. As the demand for health care continues to grow – particularly in underserved areas – nurse practitioners and other advanced practice nurses will play an increasingly central role. So, whether you’re a nurse practitioner, registered nurse, or licensed practical nurse, know this: Your work is seen, valued, and deeply appreciated. You are the lifeblood of health care. This Nurses Week, and every week, I tip my hat to you. Thank you for all that you do for our patients, our clinicians, our care teams, and our communities.
