A series of networking and educational events are set to take place in Reading, Pennsylvania, starting in late August and continuing through November 2025. These gatherings aim to support local entrepreneurs, job seekers, and business professionals looking to enhance their skills and expand their networks.
On Wednesday, August 27, the Small Business Resource Association will host a “Mingle at Legacy Cigar Lounge” from 17:30 to 19:00 at Legacy Cigar Lounge, located at 559 Penn Avenue. This informal event is free for members, while non-members can attend for a fee of $25.
The following week, on Thursday, September 4, the Career Professional Executive Networking Group (CPENG) will conduct a “Networking Group Meeting” at the Penn State Berks – Janssen Conference Center. This event, scheduled from 18:00 to 20:00, focuses on helping attendees seeking management positions or looking to develop their small businesses. Interested individuals must register in advance at https://cpengroup.wildapricot.org/event-6290161.
Also on September 4, Berks LaunchBox will offer a workshop titled “3D Printing for Beginners” from 18:00 to 20:00 at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, 201 Washington Street. Participants will learn about essential software and equipment used in 3D printing, as well as techniques for designing and printing their ideas. Registration is available at https://sites.psu.edu/berkslaunchbox/updates/ and is free to the public.
On Monday, September 8, the Schmidt Training and Technology Center at RACC will conduct a “Fundamentals of Project Management” workshop from 08:00 to 12:00. This four-session course, costing $825, aims to equip participants with the best practices in project management. For more information, visit www.racc.edu/events/project-management.
Later that week, on Tuesday, September 9, the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance will host its “Building Berks Awards & Expo” from 17:00 to 20:00 at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. This biennial event recognizes positive economic growth and development in the community through construction projects. The registration fee is $100 for members and $130 for non-members.
Entrepreneurs looking to refine their business ideas can apply for the “Fall Idea Testlab” at Berks LaunchBox, which begins on September 9. This six-week course will help participants validate their business models and culminates in a pitch competition with cash prizes. Applications must be submitted by midnight on September 9 at https://sites.psu.edu/berkslaunchbox/updates/.
On Tuesday, September 16, the Schmidt Training and Technology Center will present its “Energy Leadership Training” workshop from 08:30 to 11:30. This program focuses on developing effective leadership styles that positively influence organizational culture. The cost for this workshop is $795, with full details available at www.racc.edu/events/sttc-supervisor-training-energetic-influential-leader.
A hands-on workshop titled “Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Beginners” is scheduled for Wednesday, September 17, from 18:00 to 20:00 at the Berks LaunchBox. Led by Munish Munagala, a digital transformation leader, this workshop will explore free AI tools to enhance business efficiency. Registration is free at https://sites.psu.edu/berkslaunchbox/updates/.
The Berks County Latino Chamber of Commerce will celebrate its “Annual Gala 2025” on Saturday, September 20, from 18:00 to 22:00 at the Abraham Lincoln Hotel. This gala aims to unite business leaders and community advocates committed to supporting the Latino business community in Berks County. Tickets must be purchased by September 1. For details, contact Josie at 610-451-3239.
Looking ahead, on Wednesday, September 24, the Schmidt Training and Technology Center will host a workshop on “Taking the Lead – Skill Building for Supervisors/Team Leads” from 08:30 to 15:30. This session will cover best practices for coaching and leading productive teams, with a registration fee of $595. More information can be found at www.racc.edu/events/sttc-skill-building-supervisors-team-leads.
These events represent significant opportunities for professional development and community engagement, providing valuable resources for individuals at various stages of their careers. As local organizations come together to support growth and innovation, attendees are encouraged to participate and make the most of these offerings.
