Advantage Magazine | December 2024

Speed Networking at Novios Cafe

RYT NETWORK CELEBRATES 1 YEAR

Feature

In just over a year, the RYT (Rochester Area Young Talent) Network has become a popular and valuable resource that’s enthusiastically embraced by the 160

1 Networking Events SPEED NETWORKING A fun fast-paced way to meet and connect with young professionals in the Rochester community. SOCIAL HOURS A laid back networking social hour to get to know other RYT Network members. ACTIVITIES Including bowling, pickleball, sand volleyball, and more. MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS Space to network with others, hear from guest speaker, and provide feedback on the program.

young professionals who participate along with their supportive employers.

The RYT Network – open to Chamber members ages 21 to 39 — was developed based on the principle that young professionals are more likely to stay in Rochester to build their careers if they feel connected to others and involved in the community. “We held focus groups with our members and kept hearing that young professionals would move here for great opportunities and then think ‘Now what? How do I build relationships?’” said Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce President Ryan Parsons. The three focus areas of the RYT Network – networking, community involvement and professional development – have resonated well with young professionals, he said. While it’s too early to measure the program’s impact on keeping young talent in Rochester, the inaugural year has exceeded expectations for the number of young

professionals participating as well as the level of employer support.

The RYT Network has four event and programming types:

Bowling at Bowlocity

Networking, Community & Industry Engagement, Professional & Personal Development, and Annual Signature Events.

Social Hour at Kinney Creek Brewery

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