XPAND Session 2 - The Greater Scranton Chamber

XPAND: Professional Skills That Actually Move Your Career Forward

The Chamber’s XPAND series, presented by Peoples Security Bank & Trust, is a professional development experience for young professionals who want to get better at what matters most at work: understanding their strengths, communicating with confidence, and building relationships that open doors.

This three-part series is designed to be practical, interactive, and immediately useful. Each session stands alone, but together they create a clear progression—from self-awareness, to communication, to real-world application.

Pricing:
• $100 per session
• $250 for all 3-sessions

Reminder: If your employer is a Chamber member, you are a Chamber member. This program is for you.

Session 2: Master the Talk: Confident Communication & Strategic Networking

Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 11:30 AM–1:00 PM

Scranton Enterprise Center, 201 Lackawanna Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503

Presenter: Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce

This is not a “how to work a room” lecture. It’s a hands-on communication and networking experience.

Participants will learn how to:

Start and sustain conversations without feeling awkward or forced
Use the TALK framework (Topics, Asking, Levity, Kindness) to create natural, memorable interactions
Communicate with confidence in meetings, events, and everyday workplace moments
Network with intention—online and in person—without feeling salesy

Bottom line: You’ll stop overthinking conversations and start making stronger professional connections.

Session 3: The Professional Table: Networking, Conversation, and Confidence

Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 5:30–7:30 PM

AV Restaurant & Lounge, 320 Penn Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503

Presenter: Stephanie Decker

This final session is where everything comes together in a real-world setting.

Participants will:

Practice networking in a social environment (yes, including cocktails and conversation)
Learn how to confidently enter, exit, and navigate professional conversations
Participate in a guided, three-course dinner led by a professional instructor
Learn modern dining and professional etiquette that applies to business meals, client dinners, and events

Bottom line: You’ll leave knowing how to carry yourself with confidence in any professional setting without feeling stiff or out of place.