Insights
When young talent feels supported in their career and make strong community connections, employers have a better chance of retaining the talent our community needs most. These employees will fuel business growth in the next decade and beyond. LINC is a vital resource to any employer serious about attracting and retaining great early career talent.
Whether you employ a team of 30 or 3,000 I bet you are investing in early talent. It doesn’t take long to realize that recruiting interns, co-ops, fellows, residents, and recent college graduates is only the equivalent of a major investment’s down payment. Retention is built the weeks and months after the offer is signed, when a new hire is asking, “Can I build a life here?”
Employers in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding counties can answer that question with confidence by connecting new hires with LINC, a longstanding nonprofit that helps newcomers feel informed, supported, and connected. LINC services are valuable at any stage of a person’s career, ensuring new hires don’t just arrive, they get rooted and thrive.
And because LINC has partnered with more than 70 organizations and helped 2,500+ people relocate to the region, our model is built on experience. Investing in the community transition of your talent in the same way you invest in job onboarding is not a “nice-to-have,” it’s a workforce strategy.
The Lehigh Valley is in the middle of a “brain gain,” drawing in young adults who want meaningful work and a life outside of it. Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation data shows the region’s population ages 18–34 has grown by nearly 3% since 2020, reaching 153,000 young adults across the Lehigh Valley.
That growth is strong enough that Northampton County ranks among the Top 100 U.S. counties for 18–34 population growth.
And it matters: LVEDC notes that this rising Gen Z and young millennial population is an asset to the region’s $50.2 billion economy, strengthening the workforce employers need to thrive. To dive into the full story, check out LVEDC’s article on Brain Gain.
Adding to the excitement about young professionals relocating, data scientists tell us that this isn’t a short-term spike. Long-range forecasts show the Lehigh Valley is building a future where young professionals can put down real roots.
The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission projects that the working-age population (25–64) will increase 21.6% between 2022 and 2050 along with a 13.1% increase in young adults ages 20–24 from 2022 to 2050. These are important signals that early-career talent will continue to grow here.
There are several ways employers can partner with LINC to recruit and retain early career hires.
When candidates are considering a move, perception matters. LINC’s Talent Attraction Service provides a local, human lens—through consultations, tours, and customized itineraries—so candidates can picture life here beyond the job description.
And the results speak clearly:
This is care and excellence in action: candidates get real answers, and you get stronger close rates
Relocation doesn’t end on day one. It ends when someone has a favorite coffee shop, a reliable dentist, a route they know by heart—and someone to text on a Friday night.
LINC’s community transition support helps young professionals navigate the practical and personal realities of settling in:
LINC’s approach is intentionally relational, because retention is built through connection, not checklists.
Every summer, early career professionals arrive ready to learn—but not always ready to stay. LINC’s Early Career Summer Program is designed to change that by helping interns and early career hires build community, explore the region, and imagine a long-term future in the Lehigh Valley.
The program includes a mix of social events available to interns and recent college graduates from across the region. Last year, LINC reached 150+ interns, creating the kind of cross-company connections that deepen belonging.
We are thrilled to have nine organizations sponsoring our summer series in 2026:
Astound, Crayola, Gross McGinley LLP, Lehigh Valley Public Media, Lutron, Manufacturers Resource Center, PPL, Turnstone Creative, and Victaulic
If your early career strategy includes recruitment, onboarding, manager training, and mentorship, it should also include community connection. LINC is built to be the partner that helps your early talent feel at home here, faster.
Make LINC part of your plan this year:
Learn more about the full suite of employer offerings here:
LINC Talent Services Program
Because when early talent feels valued, supported with care, and set up for excellence, your organization wins. And the Lehigh Valley does, too.
Contact us to get started.
MACUNGIE
Valley Preferred Cycling Center – Home to thrilling track cycling races, this outdoor velodrome draws both world-class athletes and excited spectators in Spring and Summer.
Hawk Mountain – A premier spot for hiking and birdwatching, offering breathtaking views and a chance to see migrating raptors up close.
Grange Park – A spacious community park offering sports fields, playgrounds, splash pad, and scenic trails, ideal for family outings and outdoor fun.
SAUCON VALLEY
Saucon Rail Trail – Perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, this rail-trail blends nature with a bit of local history.
Promenade Shops – Stroll through this upscale outdoor shopping center, featuring a variety of premium stores and eateries.
Hellertown – A quaint town offering a cozy mix of small-town charm, local dining, and cave tours at Lost River Caverns.
EASTON
Crayola Experience – Immerse yourself in color and creativity with interactive exhibits that bring the Crayola world to life for all ages.
Easton Public Market – Savor fresh, local eats and shop for artisanal goods at this vibrant indoor market in the heart of downtown Easton.
Farmers Market – America’s longest-running farmers’ market offers farm-fresh produce, baked goods, and more in a lively community setting along the river.
Silk Mill – Discover art and culture in this revitalized historic area featuring galleries, studios, and easy access to the scenic Karl Steiner Arts walk.
ALLENTOWN
Downtown Allentown – There’s so much to explore and experience in downtown Allentown. Stop by the PPL Center, DaVinci Science Center, a local music and arts festival, or vibrant restaurant.
West End – With shops, restaurants and entertainment the West End Theatre District is one of the Lehigh Valley’s most charming neighborhoods.
Allentown Fairgrounds Farmers Market – Not your average market! Stock up on your favorites and find just about anything you need.
DaVinci Science Center – Dive into hands-on science exhibits that spark curiosity and excitement for all ages at this family-friendly downtown Allentown destination.
CARBON COUNTY
Mauch Chunk Lake Park – Splash and play the day away. Visitors can enjoy clean, sandy beaches and beautiful woodland views. Fees apply.
POTTSVILLE
Yuengling Brewery Museum and Gift shop – Learn about the history of America’s oldest brewery and enjoy a free tour of the brewery established in 1829.
Knoebels Amusement Resort – Located in Elysburg, America’s largest free-admission amusement park has 60 rides for all ages. The park also boasts a pool, campground, and golf course.
GREATER HAZLETON
Hazleton Art League – Fosters and promotes the arts through education, exhibitions, and cultural events including an art gallery and programs like drawing, painting, photography, and pottery.
Mountain Top – A beautiful, quiet community nestled atop the Pocono mountains offers a mix of suburban and rural living.
Eckley Miners’ Village – Sitting atop the world’s largest concentration of anthracite coal, visitors can explore a 19th-century company mining town and learn about the lives of families who fueled America.
HISTORIC Bethlehem
Historic Bethlehem – Step into history and luxury at this iconic hotel, offering elegant stays with a charming view of downtown Bethlehem and steps from a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Wind Creek Event Center – Enjoy top-tier entertainment, from concerts to comedy, in this modern venue nestled in the heart of Bethlehem.
D&L Trail – Hike or bike this scenic Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor trail that winds 165 miles through stunning landscapes, following a historic canal route.
