Chamber On Air

On this episode, Juli sits down with Mark Smith, Plant Manager at Schroeder Industries, to take a closer look at the world of manufacturing right here in Cumberland. Schroeder Industries has helped pioneer filtration technology for decades, with products that reach far beyond our region. Mark shares what the company produces locally, what modern manufacturing really looks like. The conversation also explores manufacturing careers, the growing need for skilled workers, company culture, and the surprising level of technology and engineering taking place right here in Mountain Maryland. If you've ever wondered what a career in manufacturing looks like today, or how a local facility can make an impact around the world, this episode is worth a listen.

Finding the right job—or the right employee—isn't always easy. In this episode of Chamber On Air, Juli sits down with Shawn Barncord of ACT Personnel to discuss the important role staffing agencies play in strengthening our local workforce.From the history of ACT Personnel to today's hiring challenges, Shawn shares insights on why businesses partner with staffing agencies, the barriers many job seekers face, and what it takes to succeed in today's job market. Together, they tackle common misconceptions about employment, workforce readiness, and the realities employers encounter every day.Whether you're searching for your next opportunity, looking to grow your team, or simply interested in the state of workforce development in Allegany County, this episode offers valuable perspectives for our entire community. 

When disaster strikes, who do you call? In this episode of Chamber On Air, Juli sits down with Jeremy Bender, owner of ServiceMaster of Allegany County, to talk about the people behind the iconic yellow trucks.Jeremy shares the history of the family business, the values that guide his team, and what it takes to help customers through some of life's most stressful moments. From building trust with employees and clients to balancing business, family, and community involvement, this conversation highlights what true service looks like beyond the cleanup.Whether you're a business owner, community leader, or simply curious about what happens after the unexpected, this episode offers valuable insight into leadership, resilience, and serving others when they need it most. 

In this episode 9 of Chamber On-Air, Juli sits down with Tasia Paige-Eirich, Executive Director of Village Caregiving's Cumberland office, to discuss how compassionate in-home care helps seniors maintain their independence while giving families peace of mind. Together, they talk about what "aging in place" really means, the services Village Caregiving provides, the importance of caregiver support, and the legal and planning resources every family should consider. Whether you're caring for a loved one today or planning for the future, this conversation offers practical insights and valuable information for every stage of the aging journey. 

In this episode of, Juli sits down with Michele Walker, Executive Director of Potomac Highlands United Way, to discuss how the organization is strengthening communities across Allegany, Garrett, Mineral, and Hampshire counties.Michele shares the story behind United Way's recent rebrand, explains the growing challenges facing ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households, and highlights programs like Day of Caring & Sharing and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. She also discusses how local businesses, volunteers, and community members can make a lasting impact by supporting the work happening right here in our region.Whether you're a business leader, nonprofit supporter, or simply someone who cares about your community, this conversation offers valuable insight into the power of working together to create meaningful change.

In this episode of Chamber On-Air, Juli McCoy sits down with Dee Dee Ritchie, Executive Director and Kim Folk Director of Marketing of the Canal Place Preservation & Development Authority and Passages of the Western Potomac Heritage Area. They discuss the impact of heritage tourism, economic development, and exciting projects like the River Park, while reflecting on Dee Dee's more than 20 years of leadership and the legacy she leaves behind. Tune in for a conversation about preserving the past and building the future of Allegany County. 

In this episode of Chamber On-Air, Juli sits down with Karly Lamp, Chief Marketing Officer of Chessie Federal Credit Union, to discuss the organization's local roots, member-first philosophy, and commitment to financial literacy and community investment. Karly shares how Chessie continues to grow while staying true to its core values, what sets a credit union apart, and why helping people build strong financial futures remains at the heart of everything they do. 

In this special edition of Chamber On Air, we sit down with past Chamber staff Peg McKenzie & Amy Jacobs, as well as former Executive Director Stu Czapski to reflect on Chamber history, community impact, and 120 years of service to Allegany County. This candid conversation captures the stories, laughter, and moments that happen when the microphones keep rolling. 

In this episode, Alex Rumgay of Allegany Garrett Titles & Settlements joins us to talk about entrepreneurship, growing a business, and the importance of staying visible and connected within the community. From building relationships to balancing business growth, Alex shares his insight into what it takes to grow a trusted local business.

In this episode, we’re joined by Lee Woodward of Vector Facility Group to talk about the critical role facility management plays in business success. From solving unexpected challenges to keeping operations running smoothly, Lee shares how taking facilities off your plate allows organizations to stay focused on what they do best. 

In this episode, we talk with Justin Buskirk about transforming Wanda’s Trophies into a modern, growing business while navigating challenges and continuing its community legacy.

Our first episode features Katelyn Yoder of M&T Bank, sharing how local banking, strong relationships, and community focus help drive business success and regional growth.