Chamber Staff Member, Emily Pettinato, Completes National Fellowship for Talent Development The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce congratulates Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, who has been recognized among 18 chamber professionals nationwide for successfully completing the 2025–2026 Fellowship for Talent Development through the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Foundation. The six-month fellowship equips chamber leaders with tools to address workforce challenges and strengthen regional talent pipelines. Participants gain a deeper understanding of their regional talent ecosystem and develop actionable solutions to support economic growth. “We are proud to recognize this exceptional group of chamber leaders for completing the Fellowship for Talent Development,” said ACCE President & CEO, Sheree Anne Kelly. “Through their work, they have moved beyond learning to action, developing strategies that address workforce challenges, strengthen regional talent pipelines, and drive long-term economic prosperity in their communities.” As part of the program, Pettinato developed a regional action plan focused on tackling critical workforce issues. Fellowship projects emphasized strengthening talent pipelines through improved systems alignment, increasing employer engagement, and building skills-based career pathways. “This experience gave me a stronger understanding of our community by developing a regional action plan focused on identifying workforce gaps and opportunities,” said Pettinato. “It also helped inspire new ideas to expand workforce programming and strengthen connections between businesses and education partners.” “As part of the Fellowship with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, Emily has demonstrated strong leadership in turning workforce development strategy into action,” stated Amy Luyster, vice president, business and workforce development for The Chamber. “Her work directly advances The Scranton Plan 3.0 initiative by strengthening the alignment between employers, education partners, and workforce partners. This recognition reflects her commitment to building a more connected, skills-driven talent pipeline that supports long-term regional growth and opportunity.”
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.
2026 Workforce Summit Announces Keynote Speakers Ryan Leckey and Kimberlee Greenleaf The Chamber’s workforce development division, Skills in Scranton, has announced that Ryan Leckey and Kimberlee Greenleaf will serve as keynote speakers for the 2026 Workforce Summit, set for Thursday, March 19, at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. Ryan Leckey, Ryan Leckey Media Kimberlee Greenleaf, Audacy Pennsylvania The Workforce Summit, presented by Lackawanna County, runs from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM and brings together regional employers, educators, and job seekers for a full day of connection and opportunity-building. This year’s theme, “Bridging Talent to Opportunity,” focuses on strengthening workforce pipelines by creating direct engagement between area businesses and the next generation of talent, including high school seniors, college seniors, and established professionals seeking a career change. “We are thrilled to have two dynamic, engaging keynote speakers who truly embody what the Workforce Summit is about,” said Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist at The Chamber. “Ryan Leckey and Kimberlee Greenleaf bring passion, credibility, and real-world perspective that will energize the room and inspire attendees to envision their future and take action toward meaningful careers.” Leckey is an Emmy Award–winning marketer, former television personality, and nationally sought-after speaker who leads Ryan Leckey Media, a full-service marketing and production agency based in Jessup. His work helps organizations across the country increase visibility through data-backed strategy and storytelling. After more than two decades in live morning television, including his role as the face of Leckey LIVE on WNEP-TV, Leckey continues to spotlight leadership, innovation, and community impact through digital platforms and broadcasting partnerships. He also founded Ryan’s Run, which raised nearly $5 million for children and adults with disabilities at Allied Services, demonstrating the power of purpose-driven leadership. Leckey holds a Ph.D. in Strategic Leadership & Administrative Studies from Marywood University, with research focused on digital influence and modern communication behavior, experience that aligns directly with workforce engagement in today’s attention economy. Greenleaf, a senior account manager at Audacy Pennsylvania, brings nearly four decades of workforce experience and a career built on adaptability and relationship-driven success. She represents leading audio brands in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre market, including WKRZ, FROGGY 101, La Mega, and WILK Newsradio. A self-described “late bloomer,” Greenleaf entered the workforce directly after high school, building her career through determination, communication skills, and real-world business acumen, an example of success beyond a traditional path. Since relocating to northeast Pennsylvania at age 45, she has become a trusted marketing strategist known for designing multi-platform, audience-driven solutions that deliver measurable results across industries. Her integrity, resilience, and commitment to helping businesses grow have made her one of the region’s most respected marketing and workforce-minded professionals. The 2026 Workforce Summit invites employers to take an active role in shaping the region’s future workforce by engaging directly with students, soon-to-be graduates, and professionals ready for new opportunities. By connecting talent with industry needs, the summit supports Skills in Scranton’s mission to strengthen career pathways and create long-term economic growth throughout Lackawanna County.
Skills in Scranton Awarded $2,500 EITC Grant From PPL Electric Utilities The Skills in Scranton Business Education Partnership (Skills), the workforce development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, has been awarded a $2,500 Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program grant from PPL Electric Utilities. The funding supports Skills in Scranton’s work as an Education Improvement Organization (EIO), advancing career readiness and developing a regional talent pipeline. The funding will be used to support workforce development programming for K–12 students in Lackawanna County, expanding awareness of career pathways and strengthening connections between education and the business community. “Skills in Scranton is grateful to PPL Electric Utilities for the EITC support, which strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality career pathways programming for students across Lackawanna County,” said Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist. Through The Chamber, Skills collaborates with educators, employers, and community partners to expose students to career opportunities in key industries, promote early career exploration, and support long-term economic development throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. PPL Electric Utilities’ support through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program reflects a shared commitment to education, workforce development, and community investment. The EITC Program enables businesses to support innovative educational initiatives that prepare individuals for meaningful careers while strengthening regional economies.
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
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.
Educator in the Workplace Program Equips Teachers with Real-World Insight to Strengthen Student Career Readiness The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce and its workforce development division, Skills in Scranton, recently concluded its 2024–25 Educator in the Workplace program, providing participating educators with valuable, hands-on experiences at local businesses to help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers. This year’s Educator in the Workplace program was made possible through a grant from the Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Robert H. Spitz Foundation, along with generous sponsorships from Pennsylvania American Water and Cardinal LG. The program placed educators into dynamic workplace environments across key industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and business services. Through immersive site visits, panel discussions, and professional development sessions, educators explored high-priority occupations in Northeastern Pennsylvania, gained a deeper understanding of evolving workforce needs, and learned about the career readiness skills that today’s employers value. Educators gained insights into topics such as: Business and economic development resources available to students and educators Regional high-priority occupations and workforce trends in Northeastern Pennsylvania Career pathway development and how to align classroom instruction with workforce needs “Educator in the Workplace is about building meaningful connections between our schools and local industries. By immersing educators in real-world work environments, we help bridge the gap between classroom learning and career readiness. The insights gained through this program empower educators to better prepare their students for the opportunities that exist right here in northeastern Pennsylvania, said Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist, The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. Participants left the program energized and equipped with strategies to help students better understand career opportunities available across northeastern Pennsylvania—and the skills they’ll need to pursue them. “Participating in the Educator in the Workplace program opened doors I never imagined for my students,” shared Sherri Ransom, transition coordinator at Mountain View High School. “Because of the partnerships we built, three of our students were hired by Simplex Industries for internships, and three more were accepted into a career-building program with Geisinger. This experience has been transformative—not just for me as an educator, but for the future of our students.” The 2024–25 Educator in the Workplace cohort included the following participants: Bonnie Baker, Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Lisa Bath, Abington Heights School District Gena Bensinger, Northeast Intermediate Unit 19 William Buza, Mid Valley School District Amy Capman, Mid Valley School District Jessica Capwell, Northeast Intermediate Unit 19 Brian Carey, Scranton School District Tara Carey, Scranton School District Mary Kate Culkin, Scranton School District Arianne DelSordo, Old Forge School District Terri Erdmann, Forest City Regional School District William Freeman, Lakeland School District Andrea Gross, Scranton School District Jennifer Herman, Scranton School District Maria Hurst, Scranton School District Jessica Judge, Scranton School District Jane Kabuiku, SCI Waymart Christine Kallinger-Allen, Abington Heights School District Stephanie Klinkel, Scranton School District Samantha Krenitsky, Scranton School District Christopher Lazor, Riverside School District Buford Lively, Northeast Intermediate Unit 19 Emily Lutz, Scranton School District Laurie Marino, Valley View School District Marie Merkel, Scranton School District John Moran, Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County Sandy Morahan, Forest City Regional School District Landon Morey, Montrose Area School District Janelle Cortino, Scranton School District Jessica Norris, Scranton School District Kathleen Nycz, Old Forge School District Carm Perri, Carbondale Area School District Cynthia Petrucci, Scranton School District Gabrielle Pidgeon, Carbondale Area School District Sheri Ransom, Mountain View School District Bernadette Schumacher, Mid Valley School District Shauna Williams, Blue Ridge School District Tim Wolff, Scranton School District Maureen Walsh, Scranton School District Marc Wyandt, Lakeland School District This initiative continues to strengthen the collaboration between education and industry, ensuring students are not only academically prepared but also career-ready.
Skills in Scranton Empowers Future Workforce at Summit Skills in Scranton, the workforce development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, successfully hosted the 2025 Workforce Summit on Thursday, March 20, at the Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel. The event brought together over 200 students from eight regional school districts, more than 50 regional employers, and over 150 job-seeking walk-ins. Designed to bridge the gap between career opportunities and students who may not be college-bound, the summit showcased viable career paths available in northeastern Pennsylvania. The event featured dynamic keynote presentations by Ryan Leckey of Ryan Leckey Media and Marc Gonzalez of Site2. Both speakers offered valuable insights on career development, workforce trends, and strategies for growth in today’s evolving job market. Between the keynote sessions, attendees participated in panel discussions covering topics such as manufacturing, the trades, and professional development. Students and job seekers also had the chance to network with local employers, explore job openings, and engage in interactive career sessions focused on workforce readiness. “The Workforce Summit is an incredible opportunity for students and job seekers to connect directly with employers who are eager to hire local talent,” said Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist at The Chamber. “By providing hands-on career exploration and professional development resources, we’re ensuring that our future workforce is prepared to succeed in the dynamic job market of northeastern Pennsylvania.” By fostering direct connections between employers and future employees, the Workforce Summit continues to strengthen the regional economy. Skills in Scranton remains committed to delivering impactful programs that address the area’s workforce needs, ensuring students and job seekers have the resources and opportunities to build meaningful careers in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Skills in Scranton Awarded Community Needs Grant To Expand Career Pathways Resources Skills in Scranton, the workforce development division of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, has been awarded a Community Needs Grant from the Scranton Area Community Foundation. This funding will support the expansion and promotion of career pathways resources, providing invaluable tools to students, educators, and job seekers across northeastern Pennsylvania. The Community Needs Grant will enable Skills in Scranton to enhance its existing programs aimed at addressing the region’s workforce challenges. These efforts include expanding the Career Pathways Curriculum Guide and increasing the availability of the career pathways video resources that connect students and job seekers with high-priority occupations in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, construction, logistics, and business services. “This grant is a significant step forward in our mission to connect students, educators, and job seekers with the resources they need to thrive,” said Emily Pettinato, workforce development specialist at The Chamber. “By expanding our career pathways initiatives, we are equipping the next generation with the skills and opportunities necessary for success in a dynamic workforce.” Through this grant, Skills in Scranton will also increase outreach efforts, ensuring that its career pathways resources reach a broader audience. The expanded programming will focus on equipping students and educators with actionable insights into local career opportunities and supporting businesses in building connections with emerging talent. The Scranton Area Community Foundation’s Community Needs Grants aim to address critical community challenges and create impactful solutions that enhance the quality of life for residents.
