The Young Professionals Council brought together over 130 young professionals from across Greater Philadelphia last Wednesday for a networking reception at Gather Food Hall & Bar. It was the first YPC event of the fiscal year, and a first chance for members to meet incoming Chair Rachel Kurlander and the new Advisory Board leadership team.
YPC has been the Chamber's home for young professionals since 1996. Today it's nearly 2,000 members strong, spanning more than 115 industries across Greater Philadelphia.
"I hope you'll join us throughout the year, make it a habit, and continue to gather and meet one another," said Kurlander, Associate Director, Office of Government and Community Affairs at the University of Pennsylvania, previewing a year that will include more networking events, professional development workshops, and conversations with some of the region's business leaders.
Wiley Corlett, Coordinator, Partnerships and Member Experience at the Chamber, talked about the year Philadelphia just had and what YPC wants to build on in the year ahead. "This year, YPC will focus on helping young professionals grow through meaningful skills development and relationship building," he said. "Above all, we want to cultivate a sense of optimism about the future of our city and the leaders who will help shape it."
The evening's title sponsor, Villanova School of Business, was represented by Shea McCormick, Associate Director and YPC's incoming Vice Chair. McCormick shared his own YPC story: joining an event just like this one two years ago, not knowing anyone in the room, and finding his way into the community that's now brought him onto the Advisory Board.
For some attendees, it was their first YPC event.
"My first YPC event was a great experience," said Tom Colcombe, AVP, Associate Relationship Manager at PNC. "I enjoyed meeting new people, expanding my network, and connecting with professionals I otherwise may not have had the chance to meet. It reinforced how valuable YPC is for building relationships and fostering a sense of community among young professionals."
YPC's next event is September 16, an immersive professional development experience powered by Seagrass. Expect a hands-on evening of problem-solving and collaboration, plus the usual food, drinks, and chance to meet other young professionals.
