The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Zamarie Navarro as Membership and Community Relations Manager The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce leadership is pleased to announce the appointment of Zamarie Navarro as its new membership and community relations manager. Navarro brings over 20 years of professional experience as an educator, CEO, and community advocate, with a proven record of fostering growth through education, outreach, and organizational leadership. Her extensive background in bilingual communication, instruction, and business management positions her to build strong connections among Chamber members, local organizations, and the broader business community. Kristine Augustine, vice president of membership and marketing, expressed excitement about Navarro joining The Chamber: “We are delighted to welcome Zamarie Navarro to The Chamber as our new Membership and Community Relations Manager. Navarro offers more than two decades of leadership, education, and community engagement experience. Her expertise and passion for empowering others will strengthen our outreach efforts and deepen our ties within the community. We look forward to the positive impact she will make as we continue to serve and support our members across the region.” Navarro shared her enthusiasm and anticipation, saying, “I’m thrilled to join The Chamber! I’m excited to connect with such a passionate and inspiring team, and I look forward to helping our members and community grow together.” In her new role as membership and community relations manager, Navarro will support member recruitment and retention, coordinate Chamber events and outreach efforts, and strengthen community relationships that increase the value of membership. Navarro will also represent the Chamber at community events and collaborate with regional partners to boost visibility and engagement. Before joining the Chamber, Navarro was CEO of ZGA One Stop Multiservice LLC, where she provided business support, interpreter services, and community resources. She also continues her role as an English as a Second Language Instructor at Marywood University, developing curriculum and empowering non-native English speakers through education. A certified bilingual educator and interpreter, Navarro holds various credentials, including Dual Language and ESL endorsements, Interpreter Certification (Spanish/English), and certificates in Rigor and Relevance. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she is deeply committed to fostering inclusive communication and collaboration across diverse communities.
Chamber Plays Key Role in PEDA Conference Success The 2025 Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) Fall Conference took place October 22–24 at the Hilton Scranton & Conference Center in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It gathered economic development professionals, developers, government and business leaders from across the state to explore best practices, policy trends, and collaborative strategies. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Lackawanna County, served as Platinum Sponsors and assisted PEDA in planning the three-day conference. Chamber staff also took active roles as speakers and moderators — including Bob Durkin, Amy Luyster, AJ Cimahosky, Emily Pettinato, and Mary McDermott. Sessions focused on regional priorities like the industrial and office real estate market, downtown redevelopment, tourism, workforce development, entrepreneurship; and topics such as Amtrak and the growing presence of data centers. The conference also featured a keynote address by local developer Donald J. Rinaldi, highlighting the Lace Village project. This marked the first time that Scranton hosted this statewide conference. Link to Momentum Article: https://indd.adobe.com/view/834f7798-c4d7-4a69-84c4-20872226049a
Emily Pettinato Selected for ACCE Fellowship for Talent Development The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, has been selected for the 2025–2026 Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Fellowship for Talent Development, a prestigious six-month program that empowers chamber professionals to strengthen their communities’ workforce pipelines. The fellowship, hosted by ACCE, brings together chamber leaders from across the country to address pressing workforce challenges. Over the six months, fellows engage in monthly webinars, participate in an in-person convening, and collaborate with national peers to design a regional action plan. The program blends national best practices with local strategies to help chambers connect businesses, educators, and job seekers, ensuring long-term economic growth. Emily Pettinato expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity: “The 2025–2026 ACCE Fellowship for Talent Development will provide strategies to strengthen The Chamber’s work in connecting businesses, educators, and job seekers while supporting talent pipeline development.” As part of her role, Pettinato develops and manages workforce development initiatives that strengthen business education partnerships and promote career pathway awareness. She leads key programs such as Educator in the Workplace, Career Pathways Resources, the annual Workforce Summit, and the Small Business Internship Fund, which connect educators, employers, and students to enhance career readiness and regional talent pipeline development. Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development, emphasized the significance of Pettinato’s selection: “Being selected for the Fellowship is a recognition of Emily’s leadership and commitment to workforce development. The skills and insights she gains will directly enhance Skills in Scranton programming and our work to support employers, strengthen partnerships, and prepare students and job seekers for long-term success in our region.” The ACCE Fellowship for Talent Development is a nationally recognized initiative that equips chamber professionals with innovative approaches to workforce development. More details about the program can be found on ACCE’s website: ACCE Fellowship for Talent Development
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025–2026 Educator in the Workplace Cohort The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the participants in the 2025–2026 Educator in the Workplace Cohort, an innovative program designed to connect educators with local industry to enhance classroom instruction and prepare students for the future of work. This year’s cohort includes 28 educators representing school districts across Lackawanna, Susquehanna, and Wyoming Counties. Participants will engage in business site visits, workshops, and hands-on learning experiences that highlight in-demand skills and career opportunities in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology, logistics, and more. Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, highlighted the program’s impact: “Educator in the Workplace is a unique opportunity for local educators to connect directly with our region’s businesses, gaining firsthand insight into the skills and experiences students need to succeed in today’s workforce. By fostering these partnerships, we’re helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and career readiness, ensuring that students are prepared for meaningful careers right here in Northeastern Pennsylvania.” 2025–2026 Cohort Participants: Diane Bailey — Carbondale Area School District Bonnie Baker — Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Sarah Brander — Montrose School District Jeanne DeSantis — Dunmore School District Corey Foote — Carbondale Area School District Bridget Frounfelker — Mountain View School District Ann Grebeck — Scranton School District Michael Griffith — Old Forge School District Lora Hardy — Mid Valley School District Christy Hinton — Dunmore School District Maura Irving — Dunmore School District Sherrica Jackson — Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Matt Lansiedel — Lackawanna Trail School District Jennie Lashinski — Mid Valley School District Clarissa McCool- Old Forge School District John Moran — Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Landon Morey — Montrose School District Jessica Ogonsky — Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Megan O’Malley — Dunmore School District Megan O’Rourke — Mid Valley School District William Pabst — Riverside School District Diane Pegula — Dunmore School District Gabrielle Pidgeon — Carbondale Area School District Rebecca Rabel — Mid Valley School District Sheri Ransom — Mountain View School District Gina Rupe-Northeast Intermediate Unit 19 Dave Rebar — Mid Valley School District Renee Vigil — Forest City Regional School District
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.
The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce Hosts Successful EDGE Summit: AI for Small Business Left to right: Brian Reese, Reese Networking; Ken Berry, ResideSync; Alex Molfetas, ResideSynch; Marc Gonzalez, Site2; Louis Aponte, OneTech360; Dr. Stephanie Gresh, Penn State University; Paul Ascenzi, Light to Dark Analytics; Liam Neville, Neville AI Partners; Dr. Will Ramey, Shared Leadership; Fred Reck, InnoTek; Joey Zarcone, Posture Interactive; Mari Potis, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce brought together regional business leaders, small business owners, innovators, and community members on Monday, October 6, at Mohegan Pennsylvania for the inaugural EDGE Summit: AI for Small Business. Attendees participated in a half-day program, which featured hands-on learning labs, expert-led sessions, and concluded with a networking reception. The summit was designed to help businesses of all sizes understand and apply artificial intelligence (AI) in practical, impactful ways—saving time, boosting efficiency, and fueling growth. “The future of small business is intelligent,” said Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. “Monday’s EDGE Summit gave our community the opportunity to explore AI in a way that was approachable, actionable, and immediately valuable for business owners and their teams.” The summit concluded with a dynamic networking event, giving attendees the chance to continue discussions and build partnerships that will strengthen the region’s business community. The EDGE Summit: AI for Small Business is part of The Chamber’s ongoing commitment to provide forward-thinking resources that support local businesses and ensure their long-term success. For more information on upcoming programs and events, visit www.scrantonchamber.com
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.
Pennsylvania Economic Development Associationto Host Fall Conference in Scranton The Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) will host its 2025 Fall Conference at the Hilton Scranton and Conference Center from October 22–24, 2025, bringing together economic development professionals, industry leaders, and community stakeholders from across the Commonwealth. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and Lackawanna County are proud to serve as the conference’s Platinum Sponsors. PEDA is the statewide association of local, state, corporate, and nonprofit economic development professionals. PEDA’s mission is to promote sound economic development policies, to provide leading-edge economic development education, and to nurture an effective statewide economic development network to foster economic growth throughout the Commonwealth. Bob Durkin, president of The Chamber, expresses, “We are both pleased and honored that the Pennsylvania Economic Development Association (PEDA) has selected Scranton as host for this year’s conference. We are looking forward to showcasing some of our area’s most creative and successful economic development initiatives to many of the top professionals in the field, from across the Commonwealth.” This year’s event will feature several staff members from The Chamber as key speakers and moderators, including Bob Durkin, president; Amy Luyster, vice president of business and workforce development; AJ Cimahosky, business development manager; Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist; and Maria Day, IGNITE program manager.Their participation will highlight regional perspectives on workforce, talent attraction, and business and economic strategies. Local real estate developer Donald J. Rinaldi, president, BEDA Construction, Inc., will be the Conference Keynote Speaker, providing an overview of the “Lace Village” development project. The Chamber leadership is excited to participate in PEDA alongside other strategic leaders from across the region and the state, including: Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania, BIDA, CAN DO, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Lackawanna Transit System, KIZ Resources, LLC, Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau, Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance, Penn’s Northeast, Pennsylvania American Water, Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, Pennsylvania Tourism Office, PPL, and Team Pennsylvania. By hosting the PEDA Fall Conference in Scranton, the region will showcase its vibrant business community, forward-thinking leadership, and unique opportunities for collaboration with strategic leaders. For more information on the PEDA Fall Conference schedule or to register, visit www.peda.org.
